Introduction to UAE Transit Visa Suspension for Pakistani Nationals
The UAE Transit Visa Suspension for Pakistani Nationals has created concern among travelers planning short stopovers in the United Arab Emirates. According to a notice displayed on the VFS Global portal for Emirates visa services, 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are currently unavailable for Pakistani passport holders. Applicants have been advised not to apply under these categories until further notice.

The message appears on the official platform that processes UAE visa applications in collaboration with Emirates. However, the notice does not mention the reason for the temporary suspension or provide a timeline for when the restriction will be lifted. This lack of clarity has made it important for travelers to check official sources before making travel arrangements.
Key highlights of the suspension include:
- 48-hour transit visas temporarily suspended
- 96-hour transit visas also unavailable
- Notice displayed on VFS Global portal
- No official reason or timeline announced
You Can Also Read: Kafalat Program Phase 1 Details In 2026 Of 13500 Payment For Eligible People
Details of 48-Hour and 96-Hour Transit Visa Categories
Transit visas are generally issued to passengers traveling through the United Arab Emirates on their way to another destination. These short-term visas allow travelers to stay in the country for a limited period, typically two or four days. Many passengers use this option to explore cities like Dubai during long layovers.
The UAE Transit Visa Suspension for Pakistani Nationals affects these specific short-stay categories. The 48-hour visa allows a two-day visit, while the 96-hour visa provides up to four days of stay. With these options temporarily halted, travelers who planned brief visits must reconsider their travel plans.
Transit visa features before suspension:
- Short stay of 2 days (48-hour visa)
- Short stay of 4 days (96-hour visa)
- Designed for passengers with onward flights
- Commonly used for Dubai stopovers
You Can Also Read: BISP Mobile Van For Disabled Person Registration Door To Door 2026 Know Full Details Step By Step
Role of VFS Global and Emirates in Visa Processing
The visa suspension notice was displayed on the VFS Global portal, which handles visa processing services in partnership with Emirates. VFS Global acts as a facilitation center where applicants submit documents and complete visa formalities. The platform regularly updates applicants about policy changes and visa availability.
Since the notice appears directly on the official processing portal, applicants are encouraged to treat it as authentic and reliable information. However, no separate public statement has been issued by UAE authorities detailing the policy change. Therefore, travelers should continue to monitor updates from official channels.
Important processing details:
- Applications managed through VFS Global
- Collaboration with Emirates for visa services
- Notice officially displayed on visa portal
- No separate government announcement yet
Summary of Affected Visa Categories
| Visa Category | Status | Validity Period | Applicable To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48-Hour Transit Visa | Temporarily Suspended | 2 Days | Pakistani Passport Holders |
| 96-Hour Transit Visa | Temporarily Suspended | 4 Days | Pakistani Passport Holders |
This table provides a clear overview of the visa categories currently unavailable under the UAE Transit Visa Suspension for Pakistani Nationals.
You Can Also Read: BISP Mobile Van For Disabled Person Registration
Impact on Pakistani Travelers
The suspension may affect travelers planning short stopovers in Dubai or other UAE cities. Many international passengers choose the UAE as a transit hub due to its global connectivity and convenient flight routes. Without access to transit visas, passengers may need to remain within airport transit areas or adjust their travel plans.
Travelers who were considering sightseeing during layovers must now explore alternative options. The uncertainty regarding the duration of the restriction adds complexity to travel planning. Until further notice, passengers should confirm visa availability before booking flights that involve extended stopovers in the UAE.
Possible effects of the suspension:
- Disruption of planned short visits
- Need to revise stopover arrangements
- Increased uncertainty in travel planning
- Dependence on official updates
You Can Also Read: BISP 2026 Policy Update: Women Beneficiaries Can Choose Any SIM Network Nationwide
Official Status and Travel Advisory
At present, no detailed explanation has been issued by UAE authorities about the reason for the suspension. The notice simply states that these categories are currently unavailable and advises applicants not to apply. This indicates that the restriction is temporary but without a defined timeline.
Travelers are strongly advised to check official sources such as the Emirates website and the VFS Global UAE portal before making bookings. Staying updated through verified channels can help avoid visa rejections and financial losses related to travel changes.
Travel guidance for applicants:
- Do not apply for 48 or 96-hour transit visas
- Verify visa status before booking tickets
- Monitor official portals for updates
- Consider alternative visa options if eligible
You Can Also Read: Maryam Nawaz Mianwali Development Plan – New Colleges
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UAE Transit Visa Suspension for Pakistani Nationals?
It refers to the temporary halt of 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas for Pakistani passport holders.
Where was the suspension notice published?
The notice appeared on the VFS Global portal that processes UAE visa applications in collaboration with Emirates.
How long will the suspension remain in place?
No timeline has been provided, and applicants must wait for further official updates.
Can Pakistani travelers still transit through UAE airports?
Yes, but short-stay transit visas are currently unavailable, so stopover plans may need adjustment.
You Can Also Read: PMDC Fee Cap Action 2026 – Show-Cause Notices Issued to Medical and Dental Colleges
Conclusion
The UAE Transit Visa Suspension for Pakistani Nationals has temporarily restricted access to 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas. While the reason and duration remain unclear, the official notice advises applicants not to submit applications under these categories. Travelers planning stopovers in the UAE should closely monitor official portals and confirm visa options before finalizing travel arrangements.
You Can Also Read: UAE $2 Billion Deposit Rollover for Pakistan Until April 2026 Ahead of IMF Review