Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates have agreed on a landmark pre-immigration clearance system that will allow UAE-bound passengers to complete immigration formalities before departure, significantly easing travel and saving time.

A UAE delegation led by Ahmed bin Lahej Al-Falasi, the director general of Customs and Port Security, met Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to discuss closer cooperation and passenger facilitation.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to sign a formal pre-immigration clearance agreement between Pakistan and the UAE.

Immigration before departure

Naqvi said that under the new system, immigration and related clearance for UAE-bound passengers will be completed in Pakistan. This means travellers will no longer need to go through lengthy immigration procedures after landing in the UAE.

He explained that passengers will be able to exit UAE airports directly like domestic travellers, making international travel far more convenient.

The new pre-immigration system will be launched initially on a pilot basis from Karachi, according to Naqvi. He added that after the successful completion of the pilot phase, the system will be gradually expanded to other destinations.

Major boost to travel

Mohsin Naqvi said the initiative will significantly improve travel convenience, save time, and enhance the overall passenger experience.

He stressed that reducing congestion and delays at arrival airports would be a major relief for travelers.

UAE assures full cooperation

The UAE delegation described the initiative as highly beneficial for the people of both countries. They assured Pakistan of full cooperation to ensure the successful implementation of the pre-immigration clearance system.

Officials on both sides expressed optimism that the agreement would further strengthen Pakistan-UAE relations while making travel smoother and more efficient for passengers.