Pakistanis living in Dubai and the northern emirates of the UAE have been encouraged to renew their passports and National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) cards online, a process that promises to be both time-saving and convenient. This advice was given by Hussain Muhammad, the consul general of Pakistan in Dubai, during an interview with Khaleej Times on Wednesday, coinciding with the 77th Independence Day celebrations held at the consulate.
Among the 1.7 million Pakistanis in the UAE, a significant number reside and work in the northern emirates. Traditionally, many have had to travel from places like Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain to Dubai to renew their passports and identity cards. Muhammad highlighted the capacity challenges faced by the consulate, noting that approximately 900 individuals visit daily for passport services and up to 400 for ID card issuances and renewals.
"The demand for passport issuance and renewal is substantial, with nearly 900 people visiting the consulate each day to apply for travel documents. Additionally, up to 400 come for identity card services. Despite the consulate's limited capacity, we strive to serve everyone. I urge all Pakistani nationals to utilize the online services for passport and ID card renewal, allowing them to complete the process from home without the need to visit the consulate," Muhammad stated.
He further explained that comprehensive online renewal guidelines are available, emphasizing that the process takes only 5 to 10 minutes. On Independence Day, hundreds of Pakistanis, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, gathered at the consulate and embassy to celebrate. The festivities included a flag hoisting ceremony, messages from President Asif Zardari and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, national songs, and a cake-cutting ceremony. In Abu Dhabi, school children performed national songs during the ceremony.
Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, the ambassador of Pakistan to the UAE, stressed the importance of unity, faith, and discipline in advancing Pakistan's socio-economic development. He called on community members to contribute positively to the country's growth. The ambassador also acknowledged their significant contributions to the UAE's development and their economic support through remittances.
On August 11, over 10,000 people gathered at the Dubai World Trade Centre to commemorate Pakistan's Independence Day.
