The Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi has announced that the launch of its e-passport service has been postponed due to technical and administrative reasons. The embassy was originally set to begin issuing e-passports to Pakistani nationals living in the United Arab Emirates from 20 July 2026, but the rollout has now been delayed until further notice.
As a result, the embassy will not accept or process any new applications under the e-passport category until an official announcement is made regarding the revised launch date.
The embassy clarified that this delay affects only e-passport services. Existing Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) issuance and renewal services will continue as usual without any changes. Applicants requiring passport renewal or new machine-readable passports can continue using the current application process.
Officials thanked the Pakistani community in the UAE for their patience and cooperation during the delay. They also advised applicants to regularly check the embassy’s official website and social media platforms for updates regarding the start of e-passport services.
The postponement comes only weeks after Pakistan announced plans to gradually replace machine-readable passports with a nationwide e-passport system. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the transition is aimed at modernizing the country’s passport system and improving travel security.
Speaking during a meeting at the Passport and Immigration Headquarters, the minister explained that e-passports would offer stronger security features, gain wider international recognition, and make immigration procedures faster and more convenient for travelers.
He also stated that the advanced technology used in e-passports would help reduce identity fraud, document tampering, and passport forgery by introducing enhanced digital security measures.
During the meeting, Director General Passports and Immigration Muhammad Ali Randhawa briefed officials on ongoing reforms within the passport system. While the proposal to fully transition to e-passports has received approval in principle, authorities have not yet announced a timeline for completely phasing out traditional machine-readable passports.
Until the new service begins, Pakistani citizens in the UAE can continue to use existing passport services without interruption.
Also Read: pGovernment Reduces Time for Normal Passport Delivery
