Pakistan Exports to UAE Increase by 26% under Ambassador Faisal Tirmizi’s Leadership
Published on: December 1, 2023.
Filed under:
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, has reported a 26% increase in Pakistan’s exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since he assumed his role. Additionally, the number of Pakistani expatriates in the UAE has increased by 200,000. Ambassador Tirmizi revealed in an interview with Punjab Euro TV that there are approximately 1.8 million Pakistanis residing in the UAE, making them the second-largest expatriate community after Indians.
The ambassador noted that a majority of Pakistani expatriates are involved in construction work, with a significant number also working in agriculture, driving, elevator operation, and security guard positions. Furthermore, he highlighted the diverse and vibrant nature of the Pakistani community in the UAE, with thousands of doctors, engineers, real estate professionals, and individuals employed in the industrial sectors.
Addressing the topic of Pakistani expatriates obtaining UAE citizenship, Ambassador Tirmizi explained that only a small number of Pakistanis have managed to attain UAE nationality. Generally, individuals who arrived in the UAE in the 1950s, 60s, 70s, or those who previously worked for former UAE President Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan were eligible for citizenship. However, the process is rare, and the UAE government has recently introduced the Golden Visa, which allows expatriates with sufficient education or investment to live in the Emirates for up to 10 years.
In terms of investment opportunities in Dubai, the ambassador disclosed that a minimum investment of 2 to 3 million UAE dirhams is required. He also highlighted the need for more educational institutions in the UAE to accommodate the 200,000 to 300,000 Pakistani children of school-going age. The embassy and consulate currently operate six schools, but they are unable to meet the demands. Therefore, Ambassador Tirmizi encouraged Pakistani investors to establish schools, colleges, and universities in the UAE to provide quality education for Pakistani students and enhance their skill sets.
Regarding trade between Pakistan and the UAE, the ambassador revealed that the annual volume amounts to US$ 11 billion. Oil constitutes a significant portion of Pakistan’s imports from the UAE, while Pakistan’s exports to the UAE are valued at approximately US$ 2 billion. In the past year alone, Pakistan’s exports to the UAE have increased by 26%. Top exports from Pakistan to the UAE include meat (worth US$ 300 to 400 million), rice, household items, textiles, and garments.
(Source: [dnd.com.pk](https://dnd.com.pk))
