Ambassador assures safety of Pakistanis in UAE as help desks launch 24/7 support
Overstay fines waived for travellers affected by airspace closures
ABU DHABI/DUBAI – Shafqat Ali Khan, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United Arab Emirates, has assured the Pakistani community that their safety and wellbeing remain a top priority as regional developments continue to affect travel and movement across the region.
Addressing Pakistanis living in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other emirates, the ambassador emphasised that diplomatic missions are fully mobilised to assist nationals during the ongoing situation.
He said both the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai are working around the clock under special instructions from Pakistan’s Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to provide support to citizens across the UAE. Dedicated help desks have been established at both missions and operate 24 hours a day to offer guidance, facilitate contact and assist individuals facing travel or documentation issues.
The top envoy also expressed appreciation to the UAE leadership and authorities for the continued care and cooperation extended to the Pakistani community during the current circumstances.
Diplomatic contact
He revealed that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had recently held a telephone conversation with UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which both sides reaffirmed the deep and longstanding brotherly relations between the two countries.
During the discussion, gratitude was conveyed for the support provided by Emirati authorities to Pakistani residents and visitors in the UAE. Officials highlighted the importance of maintaining close coordination between both governments as the regional situation continues to evolve.
The embassy and consulate remain in constant contact with relevant UAE authorities, ensuring that all necessary arrangements are in place to facilitate Pakistani nationals and respond to any emerging concerns.
Emergency numbers
Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Abu Dhabi:
- Subhanullah Khan: +971 50 121 0260 (Calling)
- Kamran Khan: +971 50 129 3420 (Calling)
- Rashid Javaid: +971 50 124 8934 (WhatsApp)
Embassy Emergency Number: +971 2 444 7800
Consulate General of Pakistan, Dubai:
- Mohsin Habib: +971 52 972 4504
- Noman Nasir: +971 50 290 7042
- Saim Ishfaq: +971 52 748 7593
Consulate Emergency Number: +971 56 647 2721
Fine relief
Alongside diplomatic outreach, the Pakistani missions have also informed the community about relief measures introduced by UAE authorities for travellers affected by flight disruptions.
According to the announcement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced exemptions from financial penalties for certain travellers whose stays were extended due to the closure of regional airspace. The disruptions began on February 28, 2026, when developments in the region led to widespread flight cancellations and delays.
The exemptions apply to several categories of travellers whose visa status was affected by the travel complications. Eligible individuals include those holding departure permits who overstayed beyond the permitted period, residents whose residence permits were cancelled but were unable to leave the country, and visitors on tourist or visit visas whose stays expired while flights remained disrupted.
Authorities have advised affected individuals to contact UAE immigration departments in order to regularise their status under the exemption scheme.
Community support
Further engagement with expatriates has also been underway through community outreach initiatives. Hussain Muhammad recently held an online meeting with representatives of Pakistani organisations and community groups from Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
During the session, participants were briefed on measures taken by the Government of Pakistan to assist nationals in the UAE amid the evolving regional situation. The consul general said the embassy and consulate were operating under the directions of Shehbaz Sharif to facilitate Pakistani citizens and ensure that assistance remains readily available.
As part of the support system, a Special Facilitation Desk has been established to assist expatriates as well as travellers transiting through the UAE. The desk operates with 24-hour helplines designed to address inquiries, guide passengers and support individuals experiencing visa or travel complications.
The consul general also acknowledged initiatives launched by community organisations including Pakistan Association Dubai and Pakistan Social Centre Sharjah, which have announced free medical assistance for transit passengers and tourists affected by the disruption.
Official advice
During his address and subsequent community engagement, Pakistani officials urged expatriates to remain calm and avoid speculation regarding ongoing developments in the region.
Members of the community were encouraged to rely solely on official announcements issued by relevant authorities and institutions for accurate information. They were also advised to use social media responsibly and refrain from sharing rumours or unverified war-related updates.
The Pakistani missions further reminded residents and visitors to fully respect the laws and regulations of the UAE and to cooperate with local authorities. Community representatives who attended the briefing expressed appreciation for the outreach efforts and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at assisting Pakistani nationals during the current situation.