Pakistan has clarified that the recent deportation of its citizens from the United Arab Emirates is primarily connected to immigration violations and legal matters, rejecting suggestions of any political motivation behind the actions.
The statement was issued by Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi during a weekly press briefing in Islamabad. He said that both countries continue to maintain close diplomatic coordination over the issue.
Andrabi revealed that Pakistani missions in the UAE have issued nearly 1,500 emergency travel documents between January and April this year to assist affected citizens returning home. He said the Consulate General in Dubai issued around 714 documents, while the Abu Dhabi mission issued approximately 780 during the same period.
He explained that the deportation figures have remained relatively stable and are largely linked to routine immigration enforcement, overstaying cases, and other legal violations.
The spokesperson also pointed to a royal pardon process in the UAE that contributed to the release and repatriation of some individuals detained in prisons. He said this factor also influenced recent return movements.
Rejecting political interpretations, Andrabi said there is “no political reason” behind the deportations and stressed that the matter is being handled strictly under legal frameworks by both countries.
He added that Pakistani diplomatic missions are actively working with UAE authorities to manage cases and facilitate affected citizens.
The Foreign Office also urged Pakistani expatriates in the UAE to strictly follow local laws and immigration regulations. Officials noted that compliance is especially important amid heightened regional security concerns in the Gulf.
Andrabi referred to past security tensions in the region, including attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement, and said Pakistan had already condemned such incidents. He emphasized that the Pakistani community in the UAE has largely cooperated with local authorities.
