According to a recent briefing to the Senate’s Human Rights Committee, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is no longer granting visas to Pakistani citizens; only holders of “blue” (official) and diplomatic passports are being accepted.

Officials warned that if full visa restrictions are imposed, reversing them could prove difficult. They also disclosed that a neighbouring country had allegedly interfered with Pakistan’s passport issuance system, a factor that may have contributed to decisions by Gulf states to limit visa issuance.

Authorities expressed concern over the implications for thousands of Pakistanis seeking work or residence abroad, especially students and labourers. The revelation sparked fresh debate over passport security, corruption, and the urgent need for anti-smuggling awareness in affected communities.