United Arab Emirates Visa RequirementsFor Pakistan passport holders
Pakistani nationals require a visa to visit the United Arab Emirates, with an application fee of approximately $100. The UAE hosts one of the largest Pakistani expat communities in the world, and applications can be made through UAE embassies or airline-sponsored visas via Emirates or Etihad.
Pakistan passport holders require a visa to enter United Arab Emirates.
Apply through the UAE Embassy in Islamabad, the UAE Consulate in Karachi or Lahore, or through a UAE-based sponsor via the ICA portal. If traveling on Emirates or Etihad, inquire about airline-facilitated visas during booking. Documents required: passport, photograph, return tickets, bank statements, hotel booking or sponsor details.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Pakistan to United Arab Emirates: What You Need to Know
The United Arab Emirates is one of the most important destinations for Pakistani nationals, home to an estimated 1.5 to 2 million Pakistanis working and living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates. Despite this massive diaspora, a tourist or visit visa is required for Pakistani passport holders.
UAE visas can be obtained through several channels: the UAE Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan, a UAE-based sponsor (for family or employment), or through airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, or flydubai when booking a flight. Hotel-sponsored visas for tourists are also available. Short-term visit visas are issued for 30 days with extension options.
Dubai is also a major transit hub for Pakistani travelers flying onward to Europe, North America, or other destinations. Transit visas or visa-on-arrival may be available for transit passengers, but Pakistani nationals transiting through Dubai who wish to leave the airport require a proper visit visa.
Practical Tips
If you have a family member or friend in the UAE, they can sponsor your visit visa through the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security) portal, which is often faster and cheaper. Dubai airport transits under 8 hours usually do not require a transit visa, but verify before travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Pakistani nationals need a visa for the UAE?
Yes. Despite having one of the world's largest Pakistani expat communities, Pakistani passport holders require a visa to visit the UAE. Visit visas cost approximately $100 and can be obtained through embassies, airlines, or UAE sponsors.
Can Pakistani nationals get a UAE visa through Emirates or Etihad Airlines?
Yes. Emirates and Etihad Airlines can facilitate tourist or transit visas for Pakistani travelers booking flights with them. Inquire at the time of booking or check their visa service pages.
Can a UAE-based Pakistani sponsor a visit visa for family from Pakistan?
Yes. UAE residents can sponsor a 30-day visit visa for family members through the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security) portal. This is often faster and cheaper than applying through an embassy.
Does a Pakistani transit passenger need a visa at Dubai or Abu Dhabi airports?
For airside transits of under 8 hours, Pakistani nationals generally do not need a transit visa at Dubai International Airport. For longer transits or if you wish to leave the airport, a UAE visa is required.