ISLAMABAD: Law enforcement agencies enforced strict, multi-layered security arrangements across the federal capital on Friday during the visit of United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The Red Zone—which houses the Diplomatic Enclave, Prime Minister’s Secretariat, Parliament House, the Supreme Court, and other key government offices—was partially sealed, with a heavy deployment of security personnel in and around the area.
A large contingent of police was deployed on all roads leading to the Red Zone as well as in other parts of the city. Islamabad Police commandos, lady police personnel, mobile patrolling units, the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) were stationed at various locations.
Islamabad declares holiday on UAE president’s arrival on Friday
Police also carried out strict checking at all entry and exit points of the federal capital. Over the past few days, the city police conducted search and combing operations as part of enhanced security measures.
Security was further tightened in the Margalla Hills, where police and paramilitary forces were deployed. Fire-fighters and rescue services were placed on high alert and instructed to keep personnel and vehicles on standby.
As part of the security plan, Friday was declared a local holiday in Islamabad.
The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) implemented a special traffic diversion plan from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on major routes, including Islamabad Express Highway, Murree Road, Police Lines Road, Faisal Avenue, and Club Road. Motorists were advised to avoid these routes during the specified hours.
Drivers travelling from Rawat towards the Express Highway were advised to use the Rawalpindi–Peshawar Road, while vehicles coming from IJP Principal Road or Srinagar Highway were directed to nearby service roads.
Additionally, the entry of heavy vehicles into the city was completely banned from 6:00 am to 12:30 pm. Commuters were advised to allow an additional 20 to 25 minutes for travel to avoid inconvenience.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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