More than 13,800 Pakistani workers have secured UAE work visas and migrated to the country in the first seven months of 2025, according to data from the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE).
On average, around 2,310 Pakistanis are moving to the UAE each month for employment purposes.
This figure is significantly lower compared to 2024, when over 64,000 Pakistanis were granted employment visas to the UAE—an average of 5,344 workers per month.
UAE employment visa policy
The drop in numbers is mostly due to changes in the UAE employment visa policy. The UAE government has introduced:
Stricter eligibility criteria
Labor market nationalization efforts (Emiratisation)
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These policies aim to prioritize local jobseekers, making it slightly harder for foreign workers, including Pakistanis, to qualify for jobs in certain sectors.
UAE still a top choice for Pakistani workers
Despite the decline, the UAE remains a major destination for Pakistani expats due to:
Tax-free income
Stable economy
High demand in sectors like healthcare, technology, and finance
Proximity and cultural ties
The strong inflow of remittances from the UAE also highlights its importance. In 2024 alone, Pakistani workers in the UAE sent home over $754 million, according to the State Bank of Pakistan.
UAE work visa for Pakistanis vs other Gulf countries
While UAE numbers dipped, other Gulf countries saw rising demand for Pakistani workers:
Saudi Arabia welcomed 242,337 Pakistani workers in the first half of 2025 (up from 226,278 in the same period last year).
Qatar accepted 26,448 workers in six months, showing steady growth due to infrastructure and development projects.
Oman, like the UAE, recorded a decline, with only 8,467 Pakistani arrivals in the first half of 2025 compared to 81,587 in 2024.
This trend suggests that while UAE work visa rules have tightened, opportunities are expanding in neighboring Gulf states.
How to apply for UAE job visa from Pakistan
To get a UAE work visa from Pakistan, follow these steps:
Secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer.
The employer applies for your UAE work permit (labor card).
Once approved, you receive an entry permit to travel to the UAE.
After arrival, complete medical tests, get Emirates ID, and residency visa stamped in your passport.
UAE employment visa requirements for Pakistanis
To be eligible for a UAE employment visa, Pakistani applicants typically need:
A valid job offer or employment contract
Educational or professional qualifications (if required)
A valid Pakistani passport
Medical fitness certificate
No serious criminal record
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is UAE work visa open for Pakistanis in 2025?
Yes, the UAE work visa for Pakistanis is open in 2025. However, the process has become more competitive due to updated employment policies and nationalisation efforts. Applicants must meet stricter eligibility criteria to qualify.
2. How can I apply for a UAE work visa from Pakistan?
To apply for a UAE job visa from Pakistan, you need a confirmed job offer from a UAE employer. The employer will initiate the visa process by applying for a work permit. Once approved, you’ll receive an entry permit to travel to the UAE and complete the residency formalities.
3. What are the UAE employment visa requirements for Pakistani citizens?
The basic UAE work visa requirements for Pakistanis include:
Valid Pakistani passport
Job offer or employment contract from a UAE company
Educational or professional certificates (if required)
Medical fitness test
Police clearance (for some job roles)
4. How long does it take to get a UAE labor visa from Pakistan?
The processing time for a UAE labor visa usually ranges from 7 to 21 working days, depending on the employer, job category, and completion of medical and background checks.
5. What jobs are available in UAE for Pakistani workers in 2025?
In 2025, high-demand jobs in the UAE for Pakistani workers include:
Construction and labor work
Drivers and logistics
Healthcare professionals
IT and software engineers
Hospitality and retail staff
Always ensure you go through authorized overseas employment promoters (OEPs) or government-approved job portals.
Even with stricter rules, the UAE remains a critical hub for Pakistani workers seeking jobs abroad. The opportunity for a better lifestyle, career growth, and solid remittances continues to draw thousands each year.
For those interested in working in the UAE, understanding the latest visa requirements and job market trends is essential for a successful application.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
