Pakistan takes measures to stop ‘dubious passengers’ from travelling to GCC

Dubai: Pakistan has tightened travel rules restricting ‘dubious passengers’ from travelling abroad especially to the UAE and other GCC countries.

Speaking at a luncheon hosted by the Pakistan Business Council in Dubai, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan focused on critical issues affecting Pakistan-UAE trade relations, travel restrictions, and efforts to stop beggars from travelling abroad.

The event attended by Pakistani business leaders in UAE, PBC members, and officials from the Pakistan Consulate Dubai, provided a platform to discuss economic opportunities, streamline visa processes, and addressed the challenges faced by travellers.

Minister Kamal emphasised the Pakistan government’s commitment to improving the travel experience for Pakistani citizens and business people travelling abroad, particularly in light of increasing restrictions at airports.

Border control

Kamal Khan detailed how Pakistan’s immigration and border control measures are evolving, focusing on efforts to stop the travel of individuals who do not have proper documentation or legitimate travel purposes, including suspected beggars who have been a growing concern particularly in UAE and Saudi Arabia.

One of the most pressing issues addressed by Minister Kamal Khan was the stricter travel restrictions at airports, designed to ensure smoother and safer travel for those who meet the necessary requirements.

He explained that increased checks are being implemented to ensure that travellers have the proper documentation, including supporting documents such as hotel reservations and proof of purpose for travel.

Stopping suspected beggars

The Pakistan government is also taking stronger action to stop ‘dubious passengers’ and those attempting to travel without the necessary resources or clear intent. “We are closely monitoring and preventing individuals, including suspected beggars, from leaving the country without the appropriate documents and supporting information,” Kamal Khan explained.

These measures are part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to ensure that travellers are prepared for their journeys and not exploited by human traffickers or sent to foreign countries without legitimate employment opportunities.

The government has put in place additional scrutiny at airports to ensure that everyone travelling has a clear, documented purpose for their trip.

Training plans

Minister Kamal Khan also highlighted the importance of training programs for Pakistanis, especially workers travelling to the UAE and other GCC countries. These programs are designed to prepare individuals for the rules, regulations, and workplace etiquette required to succeed abroad.

“By equipping workers with the right knowledge and skills, the government aims to ensure that Pakistanis are well-prepared for their roles overseas, avoiding any cultural or legal misunderstandings,” he added.

He said that short term training programs are being rolled out as part of a broader effort to protect the welfare of Pakistani citizens working in foreign countries and ensure that they can adapt successfully to the work environment abroad. “We need to make sure that our workers are trained not only in the skills required for their jobs but also in the etiquette and legal expectations of the countries they are going to,” he noted.

Minister Kamal Khan also emphasised the important role that Trade and Investment Officers (TIOs) play in facilitating travel and business activities. He revealed that these officers are under increased monitoring through a newly established online system, ensuring that they continue to support travellers and businesses with maximum efficiency.

The TIOs serve as vital bridges between Pakistan and other countries, assisting in trade relations and providing necessary support to Pakistani nationals seeking to do business or travel abroad.

Pakistan Trade Centre

Pakistan is also working on proposal to open a Pakistan Center in Dubai to display Pakistani products and promote economic collaboration in the UAE. The centre will help facilitate business activities and improve export opportunities between Pakistan and the UAE.

Kamal Khan also commended the newly elected PBC board especially its new Chairman Shabbir Merchant, expressing confidence in its potential to collaborate with the Commercial Wing of the Pakistan Consulate in advancing Pakistan-UAE trade ties.

Acknowledging the contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE, Minister Kamal stressed the importance of the private sector in leading trade initiatives. “The private sector plays a key role in solidifying trade and investment initiatives between Pakistan and the UAE,” he said. He called upon overseas Pakistanis to capitalise on emerging opportunities and contribute to strengthening bilateral relations.