Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Shafqat Ali Khan, has denied reports claiming that the UAE has suspended 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas for Pakistani nationals, following the circulation of a screenshot attributed to a visa processing platform.
The clarification comes after an image, reportedly from a VFS Global information page linked with Emirates, began circulating on social media. The screenshot stated that UAE immigration had temporarily suspended 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas for Pakistani nationals and advised applicants not to apply under those categories.
The message triggered concern among travelers planning short stopovers in the UAE. Responding to a media query, the ambassador said the reports circulating on social media were “not true.”
According to official UAE guidelines, 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are sponsored by UAE-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, and must be approved before arrival in the country. These visas are required for travelers who are not eligible for visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry and intend to leave the airport during a layover.
The ambassador’s clarification indicates that transit visa processing for Pakistani nationals remains in place, despite the claims circulating online.
