Islamabad, 22 November 2023 (TDI): Ambassador of Pakistan to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, indicated a significant surge in Pakistan’s exports to the UAE, marking a remarkable 26% increase in the last year.
This impressive growth coincides with a substantial rise in the Pakistani expatriate community, which has expanded by 200,000 individuals since Ambassador Tirmizi assumed office.
In an exclusive interview, Ambassador Faisal Tirmizi underscored the dynamic growth of the Pakistani expatriate populace in the UAE, currently numbering at 1.8 million and positioning them as the second-largest expatriate community after Indians.
He highlighted the diverse spectrum of professions embraced by Pakistani expatriates, from the construction industry to roles in agriculture, driving, lift operations, security, healthcare, engineering, real estate, and industrial sectors.
Ambassador Tirmizi emphasized the vibrant contribution of 3,000 to 4,000 Pakistani doctors and an equal number of engineers serving in the UAE.
Notably, he shed light on the limited number of Pakistani expatriates who possess Emirati citizenship, primarily those who arrived in the UAE during earlier decades or had associations with former President Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Discussing recent developments, the ambassador highlighted the introduction of the Golden Visa, offering extended residency of up to 10 years for expatriates with significant education or investment credentials. He clarified that investments of 2 to 3 million UAE dirhams are requisite for those seeking to invest in Dubai.
Addressing educational needs, Ambassador Faisal Tirmizi urged Pakistani investors to establish schools, colleges, and universities in the UAE.
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With 200,000 to 300,000 Pakistani children of school/college-going age in the UAE, he stressed the necessity to enhance educational infrastructure to empower Pakistani students with advanced skills.
In trade relations, the ambassador mentioned the substantial annual trade volume of US$ 11 billion between Pakistan and the UAE. Pakistan primarily exports goods such as meat, rice, household items, textiles, and garments to the UAE, accounting for approximately US$ 2 billion in exports.
Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi expressed optimism for the burgeoning partnership between Pakistan and the UAE, emphasizing the country’s commitment to fostering economic growth, enhancing trade ties, and further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
