Let’s talk about something that’s been making headlines lately: why it’s becoming harder for Pakistanis to get work visas for the UAE and other Gulf countries. It’s a complex issue, but I’ll break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.
The Bigger Picture: How Did We Get Here?
For years, the UAE and countries like Saudi Arabia have been popular destinations for Pakistani workers. These jobs provided opportunities to improve living standards and support families back home. But recently, things have taken a turn, and not in a good way. A growing number of visas are being denied, and it’s leaving many people confused and frustrated.
For example, you might see a woman on a street corner, holding a baby and asking for help. But behind the scenes, she could be part of a larger operation run by criminals. This isn't just heartbreaking; it's damaging Pakistan's reputation on an international level.
So, what’s going on? It turns out there are a few serious issues behind this shift, and they’re not exactly easy to talk about.
Problem #1: Exploitation by Agents
Let’s start with the role of shady agents. In Pakistan, some agents promise overseas jobs and charge hefty fees in return. While some deliver legitimate opportunities, many others exploit people by sending them abroad without proper documentation or to work in inappropriate roles. Worse, some agents reportedly send people to Gulf countries for unethical purposes, including begging.
Imagine paying your life savings to someone you trust, only to end up in a foreign country without the job you were promised. It’s heartbreaking and unfortunately quite common.
Problem #2: Begging as a Business
This is where things get even more troubling. There’s been news about organised begging rings operating in the UAE and other countries. Shockingly, some of these beggars are sent from Pakistan. It’s reported that agents arrange for people — including women and children — to travel abroad solely to beg. They’re often treated horribly and forced to hand over their earnings to these agents.
Problem #3: Selling Naswar and Other Activities
Another issue that’s been raising eyebrows is the sale of naswar (a form of smokeless tobacco). Some individuals, often illegally, sell this product in Gulf countries. While it might seem like a small issue, it adds to the perception of Pakistanis breaking laws and engaging in unprofessional behaviour abroad. It’s a tiny piece of a much bigger problem: how Pakistanis are perceived in these countries.
Problem #4: Lack of Proper Skill Development
Another significant factor is the lack of skilled labor being exported. Many Pakistanis seeking jobs abroad lack the necessary training and certifications to compete in a global market. Gulf countries are increasingly looking for workers who are not only skilled but also adaptable to modern technologies and practices. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s vocational training programs often fail to meet international standards, putting its workers at a disadvantage.
How These Problems Affect Visas
When these incidents happen repeatedly, they don’t just affect the people involved; they hurt everyone. Governments like the UAE and Saudi Arabia start seeing Pakistan as a country that doesn’t control these activities. As a result, they tighten their visa policies to protect their own interests.
It’s like if you invite someone to your home and they break your trust. You’d think twice before inviting them again, right? That’s exactly how these countries feel.
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