Pakistan Delays e-Passport Launch in UAE – New Services Postponed Indefinitely 2026
- Xavi
- Jul 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 19
ABU DHABI — July 19, 2026 — Due to technical and administrative issues, the Pakistani Embassy in the UAE has delayed the introduction of e-Passport services for its citizens in the Emirates indefinitely.
The decision comes just days before the scheduled July 20 launch, leaving thousands of overseas Pakistanis waiting for the modernized travel document. The Embassy announced that the acceptance and processing of passport applications in the e-Passport category will continue to be suspended until further notice.
Quick Facts
Feature | Details |
Original Launch Date | July 20, 2026 |
New Status | Postponed indefinitely |
Reason | Technical and administrative issues |
MRP Services | Continuing normally (unaffected) |
Affected Applicants | Those applying for new e-Passports |
Official Statement | "Unavoidable technical and administrative reasons" |
What the Embassy Said
The Pakistani Embassy in the UAE stated:
"The launch of e-Passports has been postponed due to unavoidable technical and administrative reasons until further notice."
The Embassy assured that the current Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) services remain unaffected by this postponement. Applications for issuing and renewing MRPs will continue without any disruption.
The Embassy will announce a new date for e-Passport services at a later time. Applicants are encouraged to check the Embassy's website and follow its official social media channels for updates.
Why the Delay Matters
The postponement comes just before the July 20 launch date that was previously announced . This means Pakistani citizens in the UAE who were planning to apply for e-Passports will need to wait for the new launch date.
The Embassy had previously announced a detailed e-Passport fee structure :
5‑Year Validity
Passport Type | Normal | Urgent |
36‑page | Dhs 145 | Dhs 235 |
72‑page | Dhs 260 | Dhs 425 |
10‑Year Validity
Passport Type | Normal | Urgent |
36‑page | Dhs 215 | Dhs 355 |
72‑page | Dhs 390 | Dhs 635 |
The fee schedule also outlines distinct charges for replacing lost passports, with increased rates for the first and second instances of loss.
What Are e-Passports?
Pakistan is shifting to a completely electronic passport system, gradually replacing machine-readable passports. This transition aims to boost security, enhance convenience, and update passport services.
Key Features of e-Passports:
Feature | Benefits |
Embedded Microchip | Stores biometric and personal data securely |
E‑Gate Access | Allows faster immigration clearance at airports |
Enhanced Security | Reduces risk of forgery and identity theft |
Global Compliance | Meets international travel document standards |
Digital Authentication | Easier verification by border authorities |
Unlike traditional MRPs, which rely on printed information and a machine-readable zone, e-passports use digital technology to authenticate the traveller’s identity .
What About MRP Services?
Existing Machine-Readable Passport services are continuing without interruption . Pakistani citizens in the UAE can still apply for or renew their MRPs. The Embassy has confirmed that:
Requests for the issuance and renewal of MRPs will still be handled
Existing MRPs remain valid until their expiry date
No immediate replacement is required for current MRP holders
What This Means for Pakistani Citizens in the UAE
Impact | Details |
New e-Passport Applications | Temporarily suspended |
MRP Applications | Still accepted and processed |
Urgent Travel | Continue using MRP services |
Fee Structure | Still valid once e‑Passport services resume |
Online Applications | Available for MRP; e‑Passport online portal on hold |
Looking Ahead
The Embassy will provide an updated date for e-Passport services at a later time.
The delay may be linked to a broader technical issue affecting Pakistan's passport system, which has previously caused disruptions in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf states .
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