Debunking Claims of Visa Ban for Indians, Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis
A recent viral claim has asserted that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has imposed a ban on issuing work visas for Indians, Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis. The narrative suggests that companies with a majority of employees from these nationalities are facing challenges in obtaining new visas for individuals from the same countries. However, a thorough investigation reveals that these claims need to be more accurate.
Analysis of the Claim:
Several reports have circulated on social media platforms, alleging that the UAE authorities have stopped issuing work visas to individuals from specific South Asian countries due to an overwhelming majority of employees from these nations in certain companies.
Refutation of Claim:
Contrary to the claims, visa experts, and agents have refuted the idea that the UAE has halted the issuance of visas to Indians, Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has clarified that the message prompting companies to achieve demographic diversity while hiring is not specific to any nationality.
According to the MoHRE, the requirement for companies to diversify their workforce is linked to achieving a balanced demographic representation within establishments, not to restrict visas based on nationality. The first 20% of available quotas in companies are expected to be allocated to different nationalities to promote diversity. This policy is part of the UAE's broader initiative to integrate social and cultural diversity into the core values of private sector companies.
Statements from Officials:
A representative from the Ministry MoHRE confirmed that the diversity requirement is universal and not targeted at any specific nationality. The representative explained that once the 20% diversity benchmark is met, companies are free to hire individuals from any nationality.
One of the businessmen dismissed social media claims, stating that he successfully obtained a visa for an Indian applicant at a company with a diverse workforce. However, he encountered the "achieve diversity" message when attempting to secure a visa for an applicant at an establishment predominantly staffed by Indians.
Scope of the Rule:
An executive from a business center clarified that as of the latest information, this rule appears to apply primarily to mainland companies and not free zones. Companies operating out of free zones have not reported issues obtaining work permits under the diversity policy.
Conclusion:
In summary, the claim that the UAE has banned work visas for Indians, Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis is inaccurate. The policy requiring companies to achieve demographic diversity while hiring is not nationality-specific but applies to all establishments. Companies are encouraged to diversify their workforce, and the first 20% of available quotas must be allocated to different nationalities. Once this benchmark is met, companies are free to hire individuals from any nationality, and there is no indication of a ban on specific nationalities.
It is essential to rely on verified information from official sources and avoid spreading misinformation that can create unnecessary panic or confusion among the public.