Dubai's immigration authorities have discontinued the three-month visit visa for Pakistanis and Filipinos for the next three months, Noor Mohammad, a local travel agent, told Dawn.com on Friday.

"We have been directed to refuse applications for the three-month visa starting June 1," he said; adding, however, that those travellers who had submitted their application before June 1 would still be processed.

He added that this is not the first time the Emirati government has banned such visas. In the past, similar restrictions have been placed on travel to the country, particularly during Ramazan, he said.

News outlet ProPakistani reported that Pakistanis can still apply for 14- and 30-day visas for the emirate, adding that those travellers who already hold a 90-day visa need not worry about the ban.

ProPakistani quoted a Dubai-based travel agency as saying that they are considering processing applications through other emirates in the UAE, but that would incur extra costs and entail more restrictions.

Opinion

Editorial

Counterterrorism plan
Updated 23 Nov, 2024

Counterterrorism plan

Lacunae in our counterterrorism efforts need to be plugged quickly.
Bullish stock market
23 Nov, 2024

Bullish stock market

NORMALLY, stock markets rise gradually. In recent months, however, Pakistan’s stock market has soared to one ...
Political misstep
23 Nov, 2024

Political misstep

FORMER first lady Bushra Bibi’s video address to PTI followers has triggered a firestorm. Her assertion implying...
Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...