UAE: Pakistanis offered tax-free mobile registration when visiting home country

Pakistan has introduced a tax-free mobile registration facility for its citizens travelling from the UAE and other countries, allowing them to temporarily register their mobile phones without incurring any charges.

In April, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) launched a Temporary Mobile Registration System aimed at overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals visiting the country.

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"Overseas Pakistanis can now avail themselves of a tax-free mobile registration facility for up to 120 days per visit under the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) policy," the PTA announced in a statement on Wednesday.

"This service is facilitated through our free, automated Temporary Mobile Registration System, accessible via the DIRBS portal."

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The initiative is expected to benefit a large number of Pakistanis residing in the UAE, particularly those who return to their home country for extended vacations. Many of these individuals are freelancers or small business owners, often leaving their businesses in the care of family members while they are away.

Travellers bringing mobile phones from abroad are typically required to register their devices upon arrival to ensure continued network access. Once the temporary registration period expires, unregistered phones may be blocked from making or receiving calls.

Pakistan is home to a sizable expatriate community in the UAE, with approximately 1.7 million Pakistani nationals living and working in the Emirates. In 2024 alone, more than 60,000 Pakistanis migrated to the UAE in search of better job opportunities.

"This initiative ensures seamless mobile connectivity during short stays in Pakistan and reflects the PTA's commitment to promoting digital access for all visitors," the statement added.

• Pakistan

Waheed Abbas

waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com

Waheed Abbas is Assistant Editor, covering real estate, aviation and other business stories that directly affect the lives of UAE consumers. He frequently reports human interest stories, too.