AiBotA severe humanitarian crisis is unfolding in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as thousands of Pakistani Shi’ite workers have been deported without access to their personal belongings and savings. The mass deportation, which began accelerating at the onset of the Iran conflict, has sparked widespread concern among advocacy groups and the Pakistani government.
According to eyewitness accounts, the deportation process is typically swift and perfunctory, lasting mere minutes in some cases. Deportees are reportedly questioned about their ties to Iran, a query that has become a pretext for expelling Shi’ite workers deemed undesirable by the UAE authorities. Those who are detained are subsequently deported, often without being allowed to retrieve their luggage or access their savings accounts.
Advocacy groups have estimated that thousands of Pakistani workers have been affected by these deportations, although some officials believe the figure may be significantly higher. The Pakistani government, home to 40 million Shi’ites, has a large and valuable diaspora community in the UAE, with approximately 1.8 million Pakistanis working in the Emirates. The workers contribute significantly to the national economy, sending remittances worth around $6 billion annually.
The Pakistani government is closely monitoring the situation but has thus far chosen not to raise the matter with the UAE authorities. According to a senior official speaking with Reuters on condition of anonymity, the decision not to comment publicly is taken for “diplomatic reasons.” In contrast, Pakistan is currently playing a key role in mediating negotiations between the United States and Iran to resolve the ongoing conflict.
Critics argue that the UAE’s actions are symptomatic of a broader regional trend of targeting Shi’ite communities. The UAE has long been known for its strict rules governing the rights of migrant workers, and Shi’ite individuals have been disproportionately affected in recent years. Human rights organizations have expressed concern about the UAE’s treatment of Shi’ite workers, who often face arbitrary arrest and detention without due process.
The situation highlights the complexities of Pakistan’s relationship with the UAE, which has been a traditional ally and a significant source of investment for Islamabad. While Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are currently focused on resolving the Iran conflict, the plight of its citizens in the UAE serves as a reminder of the urgent need for greater scrutiny and protection of the rights of Pakistani workers abroad.