Pakistani Shia workers in the United Arab Emirates are reportedly being detained and deported following a crackdown by UAE authorities, linked to political tensions that arose after Pakistan refused to align with Gulf states during the recent US-Israel-Iran conflict.
Gulf nations, several of which were affected by military strikes during the conflict, had expected Pakistan a Sunni-majority country to support them against Iran. Pakistan instead adopted a neutral stance and pursued a mediation role. According to reports, UAE authorities subsequently began targeting Pakistani Shia workers residing in the country.
More than 7,500 Pakistani workers have been sent back to Pakistan since late February, according to the Association of Overseas Pakistanis. Workers told Middle East Eye that they were detained in crowded facilities without explanation. Police reportedly used surveillance cameras and identity checks to identify and locate Shia individuals.
One worker, identified as Qaisar, said he was stopped by security personnel inside Dubai Mall. “They came right up to me and asked for my ID. They already knew exactly who I was,” he told Middle East Eye. A separate Sunni worker reportedly said he was deported after visiting a Shia community hall for a meal.
Many of those deported were unable to collect their belongings or withdraw their savings before being placed on flights, according to reports.
Approximately 1.8 million Pakistanis live and work in the UAE, making them the second-largest expatriate community in the country and a significant source of remittances for Pakistan.
The tensions reflect a long-standing fault line in the region. Iran is a Shia-majority state while Gulf governments are led by Sunni administrations. Pakistan, despite having a Sunni majority, also has one of the world’s largest Shia populations, and has historically avoided taking sides in Iran-Gulf disputes a position that has strained its relationships with Gulf allies.
-
-
-
-
