UAE Grants Visa-Free Entry to Pakistani Diplomats in New MoU Deal

The United Arab Emirates has officially implemented a visa waiver for Pakistani diplomatic and official passport holders at all entry points, effective July 25, 2025. The move follows a bilateral agreement between both countries aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and easing travel for government officials.

The announcement was made by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar after his meeting with UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. According to Dar, the agreement was finalized during the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in Abu Dhabi in late June. The visa exemption agreement has now become operational after the 30-day protocol period following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The reciprocal arrangement will also apply to UAE nationals holding diplomatic or official passports, who can now enter Pakistan without a visa through all Pakistani airports. The development is expected to facilitate smoother official engagement and government-level coordination between the two nations.

The visa exemption is limited strictly to holders of diplomatic and official passports and does not extend to individuals with regular or tourist passports. Both governments have clarified that standard visa protocols remain in place for general travelers.

This agreement highlights the long-standing relationship between the UAE and Pakistan, with more than 1.7 million Pakistani nationals currently residing in the UAE. Bilateral visits have also intensified in recent years, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif making multiple trips to the Gulf state since assuming office.

As part of its broader foreign policy approach, Pakistan continues to prioritize regional cooperation and diplomatic facilitation. This latest development is seen as a step toward improving institutional relations and reducing bureaucratic barriers for official delegations.

Observers believe the waiver could further encourage strategic dialogues, economic forums, and cultural exchanges at the state level. However, there has been no indication yet if a similar arrangement may be considered for ordinary passport holders in the future.

This update reflects a growing diplomatic momentum between the two countries as they continue to collaborate across economic, political, and humanitarian fronts.