ANP seeks Senate debate on reported deportation of Pakistanis from UAE

PESHAWAR: The Awami National Party (ANP) has moved an adjournment motion in the Senate over the reported deportation of thousands of پاکستانی nationals from the United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai, calling the issue a serious national, humanitarian and economic matter.

The motion was submitted by ANP central president Aimal Wali Khan, who voiced concern over reports that Pakistani citizens were being deported from the UAE on different grounds.

According to the text of the motion, reports indicated that some Pakistanis had been deported over alleged religious affiliations, participation in private religious gatherings, or security-related concerns. The motion said these developments had created fear, uncertainty and economic pressure among members of the Pakistani community living in the UAE.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the party said the motion highlighted that millions of Pakistanis had jobs, businesses and investments in the UAE, while remittances sent by expatriates were playing a vital role in Pakistan’s economy.

The ANP warned that if the situation deteriorated further, not only could thousands of Pakistanis lose their means of livelihood, but millions of families and businesses in Pakistan could also face serious economic hardship.

Call for diplomatic steps

The motion urged the federal government to take immediate diplomatic measures to protect Pakistani citizens, businesses and investments in the UAE. It also called on Pakistani embassies and the relevant authorities to extend legal and diplomatic assistance to those affected.

The party further asked the government to raise the issue of deportations effectively with the UAE authorities at the official level.

The motion also stressed that no foreign citizen should face discrimination on the basis of race, colour, religion, sect or creed.

The motion demanded immediate debate in the Senate so that the collective opinion and recommendations of the house could be conveyed to the government.

Regional tensions also flagged

The ANP also expressed concern over rising tensions in the region, particularly between Iran and some Arab countries, saying such developments could put Pakistani citizens and their interests abroad at risk.

It urged Pakistan to play an active role in easing regional tensions, encouraging dialogue and helping ensure peace and stability.

The party’s move places the issue before the upper house at a time when concerns have been raised over the status of Pakistanis residing in the UAE and the possible economic impact on families dependent on overseas income.

The motion framed the matter not only as an issue affecting expatriate Pakistanis in the Gulf state, but also as one with wider implications for households and businesses in Pakistan that rely on remittances and overseas employment.

By seeking a formal discussion in the Senate, the ANP has called for a parliamentary response alongside diplomatic engagement with the UAE authorities.