BeNewz
Related Articles
–Qatar suspends visa-on-arrival temporarily for Pakistanis; UAE increases scrutiny without a full ban
BeNewz Report
DOHA: Qatar has temporarily suspended its visa-on-arrival facility for Pakistani nationals from March 31, 2026, amid regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict. The Pakistani Embassy in Doha advised travelers to obtain pre-approved visas through official channels to avoid being denied entry.
Short-term visitors, business travelers, and others who previously relied on visa-on-arrival must now secure visas in advance. Pre-approved visas through sponsors or employers remain valid, and the change is described as temporary by multiple reports.
In the United Arab Emirates, Pakistani passport holders face stricter visa processing, with longer delays and higher rejection rates, especially for tourist and visit categories. Work, family, and sponsored visas continue to be processed under normal security and documentation requirements.
Pakistani authorities confirmed that there is no official nationwide ban, and existing valid visas remain unaffected. A March 31 deadline in the UAE pertained only to a grace period for resolving certain overstay fines, not a cutoff for new visa applications.
These measures reflect broader Gulf security concerns amid escalating West Asia conflicts. Similar restrictions have appeared across several neighboring countries, prompting Pakistani authorities to urge citizens to submit complete and genuine documents and to avoid relying on social media reports.
Travelers to Qatar are advised to obtain visas via embassies, sponsors, or Qatar’s official portal before booking flights. Those traveling to the UAE should expect delays and stricter verification through authorized visa centers, with requirements available on the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security and GDRFA websites. Pakistani nationals are encouraged to regularly check embassies and immigration portals to remain updated on travel policies, which may shift quickly due to security conditions.
The adjustments underscore heightened Gulf security measures, with Qatar and UAE ensuring controlled entry without imposing blanket bans on Pakistani travelers.
