Special Correspondent, Dhaka:
Bangladesh is seeking a diplomatic review from the United Arab Emirates after the cancellation of visas of thousands of Bangladeshi expatriates left many unable to return to their jobs and businesses.
The government initially said around 4,000 Bangladeshis had been affected, while the number later rose to about 4,800, according to ministry sources. The matter has been raised with the UAE through diplomatic channels, with Dhaka seeking a review of the cancellations and a solution for those affected.
The cancellations have created particular uncertainty for Bangladeshis who returned home on leave and expected to resume their work or business activities in the UAE. Many reportedly received cancellation notices through emails or mobile messages from July onwards, often without specific reasons.
At a September 7 program at the National Press Club, around 350 affected Bangladeshis called for government intervention. Their five-point demands included rehabilitation, financial assistance, and high-level diplomatic engagement to facilitate their return to their previous workplaces.
State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque Nur said his ministry and the foreign ministry were aware of the issue and that efforts were underway to resolve it diplomatically.
The UAE is a major destination for Bangladeshi expatriates, with more than 1.2 million Bangladeshis living there. Any prolonged restriction on returning therefore carries implications for employment, businesses, and family livelihoods.
The reasons behind the cancellations remain unclear. Some expatriate representatives have pointed to increased scrutiny over documentation, visa procedures, and security-related matters, while stressing that these factors have not been established as direct causes of the cancellations.
With affected Bangladeshis seeking a solution by September 22, the issue is now putting pressure on Dhaka to secure clarity and a diplomatic resolution.
