Travel Agents Saying 50-50 Chance: Dubai Visit Visa/5 Years Multiple Entry Visa Update Today for Pakistan. UAE reintroduces Dubai visit visa for Pakistanis—check latest rules, fees (1 month/60 days/3 months), and online application process. Approval chances explained!
UAE Reopens Visit Visa for Pakistanis—But Approval Isn’t Guaranteed
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has resumed issuing visit visas to Pakistani nationals after a long hiatus, but travel agents warn that approvals come with a 50-50 chance. While some applicants are securing visas—especially the new 5-year multiple-entry option—others face sudden rejections, leaving many in limbo.
Who Can Apply? Key Conditions for Approval
Last week, several UAE-based travel agencies reported successful visa approvals, but with strict conditions:
- Priority for older applicants (aged 50+)
- Family ties to UAE residents (spouses/children of UAE residents have higher approval rates)
However, this week brought a wave of rejections, forcing agents to caution applicants about the uncertainty. “We’re accepting applications, but it’s a 50-50 gamble,” one Dubai-based agent told reporters. “If rejected, the visa fee won’t be refunded.”
5-Year Multiple-Entry Visa: A Game Changer?
The 5-year multiple-entry visa is gaining traction among Pakistani travelers. It allows:
- Unlimited entries to the UAE over five years
- 90-day stays per visit (must exit before re-entering)
Requirements for the 5-Year Visa:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Recent personal photo
- 6-month bank statement (proof of financial stability)
- Health insurance (mandatory)
- Round-trip ticket (for first entry)
Visa Fees Breakdown
The UAE government has standardized visa fees, but additional charges may apply depending on the applicant’s profile and processing agency.
Costs vary depending on visa duration:
- 30-day visa: AED 300 (+5% VAT)
- 60-day visa: AED 500 (+5% VAT)
- 90-day visa: AED 700 (+5% VAT)
Additional Costs:
- Guarantee deposit: AED 2,000 (refundable)
- Health insurance: AED 40–90 (based on visa length)
- Inside-country processing fee (if applicable): AED 500
Note: Fees may fluctuate based on individual cases.
Why the Sudden Rejections?
Travel agents speculate that UAE immigration is tightening scrutiny due to past overstays and security concerns. “They’re being selective,” said an agent in Lahore. “Strong financial proof and family ties help, but nothing’s guaranteed.”
What Should Applicants Do?
- Double-check documents (incomplete applications face instant rejection).
- Apply through licensed agencies (avoid scams).
- Prepare financially (rejections mean losing the visa fee).
Industry Reactions
Muhammad Rizwan, CEO of Pakistan Tours LLC, told our reporters:
“We’re seeing approvals take 7-10 business days compared to the usual 3-5 days pre-suspension. The scrutiny is noticeably more intense, particularly regarding financial documents.”
Dubai-based immigration lawyer Aisha Al-Hashimi cautioned:
“Many rejections stem from incomplete paperwork or inconsistencies between bank statements and declared income. Applicants should triple-check all documentation.”
Applicant Experiences
Islamabad resident Farhan Ahmed shared his ordeal:
“I applied through a reputable agency, paid AED 750, and waited two weeks only to get rejected. They said my bank statements showed ‘irregular activity’ because of some large family gift deposits.”
Conversely, Karachi business owner Samina Hussain secured approval:
“Having my son in Dubai sponsor me made the difference. The process took 12 days but went smoothly with all proper documents.”
Official Guidance
The UAE Embassy in Islamabad released a statement reminding applicants:
“All visa applications must be submitted through authorized channels. Beware of agents promising guaranteed approvals or shortcuts.”
Next Steps for Applicants
Prospective visitors are advised to:
- Verify agency credentials through UAE government portals
- Prepare financial documents showing stable 6-month history
- Consider professional document review before submission
The ICA indicates no immediate plans to change these requirements but will monitor application trends monthly.
Final Thoughts: Proceed with Caution
While the UAE’s visa reopening is a relief for many Pakistanis, the approval process remains unpredictable. Those considering the 5-year multiple-entry visa have better odds, but all applicants should weigh the risks before applying.
“It’s a waiting game,” admits a Karachi-based travel consultant. “Some get lucky; others don’t.”
For the latest updates, follow official UAE immigration channels or consult trusted visa agents.
Comments (2)
Ishrat
Good acknowledge good work.
Ammad ishaq
Assalam o alaikum apply for Dubai