PESHAWAR: Awami National Party (ANP) has submitted an adjournment motion in the Senate over the reported deportation of thousands of Pakistani nationals from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly Dubai, describing the matter as a serious national, humanitarian and economic issue.

The motion was submitted by ANP central president Aimal Wali Khan, who expressed concern over reports that Pakistani citizens were being deported from UAE on various grounds.

According to the text of the motion, reports suggest that some Pakistanis were deported over alleged religious affiliations, participation in private religious gatherings or security-related concerns, had created fear, uncertainty and economic pressure among the Pakistani community residing in the UAE.

According to a statement issued here on Thursday, the motion noted that millions of Pakistanis were having employment, businesses and investments in the UAE, while remittances sent by expatriates played a vital role in Pakistan’s economy.

It warned that if the situation worsened, not only thousands of Pakistanis would lose their livelihoods, but millions of families and businesses in Pakistan could also face severe economic difficulties.

The ANP also voiced concern over rising tensions in the region, particularly between Iran and some Arab countries, saying such developments could threaten Pakistani citizens and their interests abroad.

The party urged Pakistan to play an active role in reducing regional tensions, promoting dialogue and ensuring peace and stability.

The motion urged the federal government to take immediate diplomatic measures to safeguard Pakistani citizens, businesses and investments in the UAE. It also demanded of Pakistani embassies and relevant authorities to provide legal and diplomatic assistance to affected citizens.

The ANP further urged the government to effectively raise the issue of deportations with the UAE authorities at the official level.

The motion stressed that no foreign citizen should face discrimination on the basis of race, colour, religion, sect or creed and demanded immediate debate in the Senate so that the collective opinion and recommendations of the house could be conveyed to the government.

Published in Dawn, May 15th, 2026