Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed to introduce a pre-immigration clearance system that will allow Pakistani passengers to complete immigration formalities before departure, enabling them to bypass lengthy queues on arrival at UAE airports.
The development came during a meeting between Director General Customs and Port Security Ahmed bin Lahij Al Falasi of UAE and Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi, read a statement on Tuesday.
Detailed discussions were held on Pakistan and UAE relations, mutual cooperation, and simplifying immigration processes for travelers.
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During the meeting , both sides agreed that a formal pact on “pre-immigration clearance” between Pakistan and the UAE would be signed. The system will initially be launched on a pilot basis, with Karachi selected as the first location.
Speaking on the occasion, Naqvi said that under the pre-immigration clearance system, immigration and relevant clearance will take place in Pakistan itself.
After its implementation, passengers arriving in the UAE will not be required to undergo lengthy immigration procedures and will be able to exit the airport directly as domestic passengers. He added that the initiative will make travel easier, save time, and enhance the overall passenger experience, read a statement.
The UAE delegation termed the move beneficial for the people of both countries and expressed readiness for cooperation.
It was decided in the meeting that the relevant authorities would continue coordination to finalize the administrative and technical framework of the pilot project, and upon successful implementation, the system would be gradually expanded to more destinations.