Pakistani expatriates in the UAE, job seekers, and visitors arriving on visit visas are urged to familiarize themselves with and follow the local laws and regulations, according to a video advisory issued by Pakistani missions.
“The purpose of this video is to guide Pakistanis in the UAE and those coming here to understand the local laws, as well as their rights and responsibilities, to avoid any legal issues,” said Hussain Muhammad, Consul-General at the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai.
The advisory warned that violating local laws could lead to legal action, including imprisonment, fines, or even deportation. It also explained that Dubai visas issued to Pakistani nationals can be verified through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA), while visas from other emirates, such as Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, can be verified through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.
Job seekers are strongly advised to verify their potential employers through official government channels. In case of any uncertainty, they can seek assistance from the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate-General in Dubai.
The advisory also provided resources for obtaining information on labor laws through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) website, where candidates can use email or chat services. For immigration and visa-related inquiries, applicants can reach out to Amer Centres, while Tasheel Centres can assist with labor issues.
In the event of a crime or dispute, individuals are urged to report the matter to the police immediately. Workplace violations should be reported to Mohre within one year of the work permit’s cancellation.
The video also stressed the importance of keeping medical records, valid passport and visa copies, updated employment contracts, financial records, and employer details easily accessible. These documents should be shared with close family members in the UAE and Pakistan in case of emergencies.
Expats are advised to use official channels for money transfers between the UAE and Pakistan and to take precautions to protect ID cards, SIM cards, passports, Emirates IDs, and email accounts. The advisory highlighted the risks of online banking and credit card fraud and recommended obtaining life and medical insurance in both countries.
Additionally, all Pakistani employees were urged to acquire job loss insurance, known as Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) insurance, in the UAE.
“We, the overseas Pakistanis in the UAE, represent our country. Adhering to the laws of the host country not only reflects well on us but also brings a good name to Pakistan,” said the consul-general.
With approximately 1.7 million Pakistanis in the UAE, making them the second-largest expatriate community in the country, and millions more visiting annually, it is crucial for all to follow these guidelines:
- Avoid sharing posts that may offend religious sentiments.
- Do not share or upload immoral or vulgar content, or material related to human trafficking.
- Refrain from posting content that criticizes other countries’ policies.
- Avoid participating in protests or posting threatening content online.
- Do not share photos or videos of others without their consent.
- Do not take photos of sensitive areas.
- Respect the privacy of others and avoid spreading rumors or misleading information.
- Protect personal information like passwords, OTPs, and ATM PINs.
- Avoid taking up employment while on a tourist/visit visa.
- Be mindful of post-dated cheques and ensure you do not sign blank cheques or papers.
- Follow all traffic laws, as international driving licenses are only valid for non-residents.
- Strictly avoid narcotics, as well as medicines containing banned substances.
- Do not raise funds for unregistered charities, as this is illegal.
- Serious crimes such as robbery, smuggling, and terrorism carry severe penalties.
Sami Ullah Khan, Community Welfare Attaché at the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi, encouraged people to share the video with friends and family, especially those living in or planning to visit the UAE.
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