THIS is with reference to the report “Pakistan’s relations with UAE ‘absolutely fine’” (May 15), which quoted the Foreign Office spokesperson as discarding the general perception that matters between the two countries were somewhat strained. While official channels in both countries have sought to downplay tensions, the ties have appeared to be more transactional than strategic in recent times.

Several factors contributed to the genral perception in this regard. First was the demand made by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the immediate repayment of a $3.5 billion deposit held in Pakistan’s central bank. Besides, in a major strategic shift, the UAE has established strong alignment with India. At the same time, Pakistan’s decision to sign a bilateral defence pact with Saudi Arabia is said to have deepened the UAE’s reservations about Islamabad’s foreign policy. The UAE was also reportedly displeased with Pakistan’s neutral stance in the US-Israel-Iran conflict.

There have been reports indicating that the UAE has tightened visa restrictions for Pakistani nationals, causing disruption in labour and economic dynamics. The UAE has also reportedly withdrawn from a deal to manage the Islamabad airport, signalling a decline in confidence in the bilateral economic partnership.

Despite these reports — and, indeed, many more across social media platforms — the Foreign Office has officially dis-missed all such reports, stating that the financial transactions were routine, and that the bilateral relationship remained strong and based on long-term partnership.

There are over 1.8 million Pakistani expatriates, contributing to the UAE’s development and supporting their families back home and Pakistan’s economy through remittances. Ensuring their safety, fair treatment and access to legal work opportunities should be the central goal of Pakistan’s foreign and labour policies.

Historically, Pakistan-UAE relations are deep-rooted and multifaceted, centred on economic partnership, significant labour migration and legendary friendship. Tackling the uneasy relationship between Pakistan and the UAE requires high-level, consistent and proactive diplomacy focused on reinforcing strategic partnership over short-term geopolitical frictions.

Air-Cdre (retd) M. Khalid Kamal
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, May 21st, 2026