In a move set to deepen long-standing ties, the UAE and Pakistan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for mutual visa exemption, allowing diplomatic and official passport holders of both countries to travel without entry visas. The agreement is expected to streamline travel and strengthen people-to-people connections between the two nations.

The visa exemption MoU was signed during the 12th session of the UAE–Pakistan Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), held in Abu Dhabi, and attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Agreements Beyond Visas

The high-level meeting saw the signing of several key MoUs, including:

• A joint task force to promote UAE investments in Pakistan’s strategic sectors
• An MoU on cooperation in artificial intelligence and the digital economy

These were signed by Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and senior Pakistani officials, including Tariq Bajwa, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Zarar Hashim Khan, Federal Secretary at Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications.

A Trusted and Historic Partnership

The UAE and Pakistan reviewed cooperation across trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, and technology during the session.

Speaking at the event, Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, who led the UAE delegation, described Pakistan as a long-standing and trusted partner, highlighting diplomatic ties dating back to 1971.

“This partnership is built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for the future,” Al Sayegh said, noting that non-oil trade exceeded $8.6 billion in 2024.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing bilateral relations and ensuring prosperity, stability, and development for future generations.

The UAE’s Baseball Governing Committee is actively pushing forward with its plans to grow and develop the sport across the country, with a focus on grassroots talent and international partnerships.

The three-member committee, led by Dr. Tayyab Kamali as chairman and joined by Zayed Abbas and Mubashshir Usmani, continues to explore new avenues for expanding baseball’s footprint in the Emirates.

Baseball’s governance was officially placed under the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) by the UAE two years ago. Since then, the committee has worked to build a solid foundation for the sport, from youth engagement to infrastructure development.

Dr. Tayyab Kamali, Chairman of the Baseball Governing Committee, said: “The Emirates Cricket Board remains committed to the growth of baseball in the UAE. We’re creating opportunities to promote the sport through talent development, establishing academies, and hosting world-class events across the country.”

He added that the committee has also engaged with several international baseball organisations and that a series of exciting partnerships and initiatives will be announced soon.

With baseball’s rising popularity globally and increasing interest among young athletes in the UAE, the committee is optimistic about the sport’s future in the region.

If you’re in the habit of handing over your keys at malls, hotels or restaurants in Abu Dhabi, it’s time to take a closer look at who’s parking your car. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), part of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has rolled out strict new rules for valet parking services, and unlicensed operators are firmly in the spotlight.

Valet Parking Crackdown: What’s New?
The ITC has officially mandated that all valet parking providers in Abu Dhabi must be licensed. Any business offering the service without proper authorisation or misusing an existing licence violates the law. And yes, enforcement is already underway.

Inspection teams are currently making the rounds across hotels, malls, and other venues to ensure compliance. No spot is being overlooked, and businesses without valid permits could face serious consequences.

Why This Matters to Drivers
The goal? A safer, more reliable valet experience for everyone. By tightening the rules, authorities are ensuring that your car is only handled by trained and accountable personnel.

And if something does go wrong,  think scratches, theft or any form of damage, being with a licensed valet service means your rights are protected. Using unlicensed services, on the other hand, could leave you without any legal recourse.

Attention: Hotels, Malls & Event Venues
The ITC has also urged all venues offering valet services, from luxury hotels to local entertainment hubs,  to review their permits and apply for the appropriate licence if they haven’t already. Those who fail to comply could face penalties or even legal action.

How You Can Help
If you notice a valet service operating without a visible licence or spot something suspicious, the ITC encourages the public to report it through their official channels. Public awareness is key to keeping Abu Dhabi’s services professional, safe, and regulated.