Firstpost ·
UAE cancels residency, work visas of thousands of Bangladeshis, Dhaka seeks answers
Around 5,000 workers, entrepreneurs and long-term residents are reportedly affected, with some learning of the cancellations while outside the UAE
Nearly 5,000 Bangladeshi nationals are reportedly facing uncertainty after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) cancelled their residency and work visas, leaving many unable to return to the country where they live and work.
The cancellations, as reported by The Daily Star, have affected workers, business owners and long-term residents. Many had travelled to Bangladesh on routine leave or family trips and later discovered that their UAE residency or work permits had been cancelled while they were outside the country.
For those affected, the move has created major uncertainty over their jobs, businesses and families in the UAE.
Several affected individuals said they received notifications through email, mobile messages or from their UAE-based sponsors. Many said they were not given advance notice or a clear explanation for the cancellations.
Some of those affected have spent years or even decades in the UAE. They include people who have established businesses, bought property and moved their families to cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The reasons behind the cancellations remain unclear, with migration experts and community representatives pointing to stricter security screening and vetting procedures in the Gulf.
Possible factors being discussed include documentation issues, delayed visa renewals and checks related to individuals’ online activity. However, the exact reasons for the cancellations have not been publicly established.
The issue has also drawn the attention of Bangladeshi authorities. Officials dealing with labour and migrant welfare have acknowledged the concerns and stepped up communication with the UAE embassy.
Bangladesh is seeking a review of the cases and has pushed for a process through which people without any legal violations can have their cases reconsidered.
The uncertainty has also led affected Bangladeshi expatriates and their families to demand government action.
Some have held demonstrations and called for financial assistance for families affected by the cancellations. They are also seeking urgent diplomatic intervention to help restore their residency and work status.
For those who cannot return to the UAE, affected workers are seeking alternative employment support and assistance with rebuilding their livelihoods.