Pakistan’s passport delivery in UAE now faster, Dubai Consulate urges to go digital
New system cuts queues as consulate prioritises digital ID and passport access
DUBAI: The Pakistani Consulate in Dubai is going digital – and faster than ever.
Community members are being urged to take advantage of streamlined online services for passport and ID card renewals, as officials roll out quicker delivery times, reduced queues, and expanded digital access.
Speaking to Gulf News, Consul General Hussain Mohammed confirmed that significant improvements have been made in passport issuance, with urgent documents now arriving in as little as 8 to 10 days. He encouraged the public to rely on the official portal and courier services to minimise unnecessary visits and long wait times.
Appointments and accessibility
The consulate has launched a new online appointment system to manage heavy traffic, especially for ID card renewals. "Nearly 80% of applicants now book appointments online," he added, while noting that urgent walk-ins are still entertained when slots are unavailable. On average, 800 to 1,000 passport applications are processed weekly, with 180 to 200 ID card requests daily.
To address crowding, the passport, ID, and attestation counters often remain open even on official holidays. The waiting area is being expanded, and all visitors are encouraged to file complaints via helpline or email if they face service issues. Currently, there are no satellite offices in the northern Emirates, as biometric data must be processed at the central facility.
Courier and remittance push
Hussain Mohammed has urged people to opt for the courier service for passport and ID delivery, to help ease the daily footfall of around 2,000 people, including 200 to 300 individuals who come just for document collection.
The Consul General also highlighted a surge in remittances from the UAE to Pakistan, crossing $754.2 million during the 2024–25 fiscal year. The consulate has set up an awareness desk, working with exchange houses and banks to encourage legal transfer channels, especially targeting workers in labour camps. He noted that some exchange companies now offer free remittance services and remittance cards.
Focus on education and employment
Addressing the lack of Pakistani schools in the UAE, the Consul General urged the business community to invest in education infrastructure. “Despite population growth, the number of schools has not increased,” he stated, encouraging stakeholders to replicate successful models from other expatriate groups.
On the employment front, the consulate has held job fairs and is planning another in August, in coordination with UAE-based employers. There is growing demand for skilled Pakistani workers in healthcare, tourism, hospitality, and nursing. A Youth Hub portal is also being developed to connect skilled individuals with job opportunities.