UAE Tourist Visas for Families Now Being Approved – September 2025 Update

  Last updated on 16 Sep, 2025

The UAE has recently updated its tourist visa policy, bringing flexibility to families planning to travel to Dubai. For the past year, Pakistani nationals faced strict visa restrictions, with most applications being rejected. Only family applications or cases involving single women above 45 years had a partial chance of approval. Now the family tourist visas are being approved, opening new opportunities for travel.

Family Applications See Higher Approval Rates

Previously, applying for a UAE tourist visa as an individual from Pakistan was highly uncertain. Approval rates were as low as 50%, depending on the applicant’s age and profile. With the new update, applying as a family increases the chances significantly. This policy change signals that the UAE is encouraging family tourism once again, which could help revive the travel flow.

Are you applying with family? Learn requirements and fees for UAE tourist visas from Pakistan.

Restrictions Still Exist for Solo Travelers

Despite the positive development for families, restrictions remain in place for single applicants. Most tourist visa requests from individuals are still being rejected unless they meet specific conditions, such as being a woman over 45. This means that solo travelers and younger applicants may still face challenges, highlighting that the UAE’s new policy is mainly designed to support family travel.

Impact on Pakistani Travelers

For Pakistani nationals, this update is an important shift. Families who had been postponing trips to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other Emirates can now apply with more confidence. However, travel agents advise preparing proper documentation and applying through reliable channels to avoid unnecessary delays. While this change benefits families, individuals should remain cautious as approvals are not guaranteed.

What This Means Going Forward

The UAE’s decision to resume family visa approvals shows that the country is gradually reopening its tourism sector for Pakistani travelers while keeping certain controls in place. For now, traveling with family is the best option for those looking to visit the Emirates. Many expect that if the current trend continues positively, restrictions for solo travelers might also ease in the future. Until then, the latest update is a welcome sign for Pakistani families who wish to explore the UAE.