UAE suspends visas for lone male travelers from Iraq

SULAYMANIYAH — The United Arab Emirates has halted the issuance of visas for lone male travelers holding passports from several countries, including Iraq, according to Atta Anwar, head of the Sulaymaniyah Travel and Tourism Companies Association.

In a statement to 964 Media, Atta Anwar reported, “UAE authorities have ceased issuing entry visas to lone male travelers from Iraq, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Syria, Pakistan, and various other nations starting August 13.” He clarified, “All our visa applications for lone male travelers have been denied, regardless of their age or marital status.

“However, this restriction does not affect lone female travelers, who are still eligible for visas and can visit the UAE.” Anwar pointed out that visas granted before this date are still valid and can be utilized, although there has been a significant rise in such applications.

“Visas for family travel are being issued without any problems; visitors are required to travel with their families,” Anwar added. He also mentioned that “major travel agencies in the UAE, with which we partner, have informed us that the suspension is a response to many solo visitors overstaying their permitted time, prompting authorities to stop issuing these visas.”

A source within the Consulate General of the UAE in Erbil, when questioned about the decision, told 964media that they “have not received any official correspondence regarding this issue” and declined to comment further.

Karwan Ali, a resident of Sulaymaniyah currently in Dubai, shared with 964media, “They tried to invite one of their friends to Dubai, but the application was rejected.” While the exact reason for the denial remains unclear, Karwan speculated, “It appears to be a temporary measure possibly linked to concerns over tourism security.”

Data from Ahmed Hoshyar, head of Erbil International Airport, and Handren Mufti, head of Sulaymaniyah Airport, indicate that there are 28 weekly flights from Erbil to the UAE and five from Sulaymaniyah. These flights primarily cater to commercial activities, with thousands of Iraqis traveling to the UAE monthly to buy goods and transport them back to Iraq.