Pakistan Consulate in Dubai a pillar of support for Pakistani expats in the UAE
Exclusive interview with Pakistan Consul General in Dubai on 78th Independence Day
Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai reveals critical facets that help the Consulate address the needs of Pakistan’s large expat community in the UAE. Excerpts from an interview:
How is the Consulate working to address the needs and aspirations of the large Pakistani community in the UAE, particularly in areas like legal support, documentation, and community services?
The Pakistan Consulate General in Dubai looks after the Pakistani community in the Northern Emirates - about 1.5 million people and their welfare is our top priority. We have worked to improve facilitation in passport and national identity card issuance, as well as services like document attestation, powers of attorney, and legal assistance.
One of the most sensitive responsibilities we handle is assisting in the repatriation of deceased community members. I have instructed our welfare team to treat them as emergencies, ensuring death NOCs are issued round the clock. Staff work on a monthly roster and are available 24/7 without leave to help bereaved families.
We also visit prisons in Dubai and the Northern Emirates every week to ensure Pakistani inmates receive proper legal and consular support, and we review detailed reports to make sure no case is overlooked.
What initiatives are the Consulate pursuing to promote business, tourism, and cultural exchange between Pakistan and the UAE at the grassroots and SME level?
Our Trade & Investment Section, with the support of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, helps our businesses take part in major trade exhibitions in the UAE. These events are a powerful way to build direct business-to-business connections.
We also host and support cultural activities that showcase Pakistan’s art, literature, tourism, and cuisine, helping strengthen people-to-people ties. Our Pakistan Business Councils in Dubai and Sharjah are very active in working with local chambers of commerce to explore new ventures, support SMEs, and promote grassroots-level trade between Pakistan and the UAE.
As Pakistan celebrates its Independence Day, what message would you like to share with the community in the UAE, and how can they contribute to furthering Pakistan’s progress?
My message to our community is simple — work hard, stay united, and be ideal ambassadors of Pakistan. Represent your country with dignity, respect local laws and customs, and support each other.
I also appeal to all Pakistanis to send remittances only through legal banking channels. This directly strengthens Pakistan’s economy and benefits every citizen. If we combine hard work with mutual support and respect for the country we live in, we can contribute meaningfully to the progress of both Pakistan and the UAE.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
