Pakistani expatriates in the UAE, including job seekers and those arriving on visit visas, are urged to familiarize themselves with and adhere to local laws and regulations, according to a video advisory from the consulate.

Hussain Muhammad, the consul-general at the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai, stated, “The purpose of this video is to inform Pakistanis in the UAE and those traveling here about local laws, as well as their rights and responsibilities, to help them avoid legal issues.”

The advisory cautioned that violating local laws could lead to court appearances, potential imprisonment, fines, or even deportation.

The video explained that visas for Pakistani nationals issued in Dubai can be verified through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai. For visas issued from other emirates—such as Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah—verification can be done through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.

Job seekers are advised to confirm the legitimacy of their potential employers through official channels. In case of uncertainty, they should seek assistance from the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate-General in Dubai.

The advisory provided resources for obtaining information on labor laws and other regulations via the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) website. Candidates can also use email and chat services for inquiries. For immigration and visa-related matters, they can consult Amer Centres, while Tasheel Centres can assist with labor issues.

In the event of a crime or dispute, individuals are encouraged to report the situation to the police immediately. Any workplace violations should be reported to Mohre within one year of the cancellation of a work permit.

Expatriates should keep medical records, copies of their valid passport and visa pages, updated employment contracts, and financial records readily accessible. These details should also be shared with close family members in both the UAE and Pakistan for assistance if needed.

Furthermore, they are advised to use official channels for remitting money to and from the UAE and Pakistan.

The advisory emphasized the importance of protecting personal identification, SIM cards, passports, Emirates IDs, and email accounts from fraud, as well as being aware of online banking and credit card scams. It also recommended obtaining life and medical insurance in both Pakistan and the UAE, along with job loss insurance, known as the UAE’s Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) insurance.

Hussain Muhammad concluded, “As overseas Pakistanis in the UAE, we represent our country. Adhering to the laws of our host nation not only reflects positively on us individually but also enhances the reputation of our entire country.”

There are approximately 1.7 million Pakistanis living in the UAE, making them the second-largest expatriate community in the Gulf nation. Additionally, millions of Pakistani tourists visit the Emirates annually.

Pakistanis in the UAE or those hoping to go to the UAE have been advised to refrain from posting material against religion, other countries’ policies or even anything that defames other people.

They have also been advised to refrain from taking up jobs on visit visas or collecting funds for unregistered charities. Expats have also been advised to follow UAE’s laws strictly.