There’s great news for those planning to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Abdullah Hamudi, the UAE ambassador to Bangladesh, has announced that tourist visas will become available starting February.  

Speaking at a reception held on Monday (December 23) night in Dubai by the Bangladeshi community to honor the newly appointed ambassador, Mushfiqur Fazal Ansari, in the rank of Senior Secretary, Ambassador Hamudi shared this exciting update.  

At the event, Ambassador Mushfiqur Fazal Ansari, the chief guest, highlighted the sacrifices made by some expatriates during the July uprising, who protested despite knowing the risks, in reaction to the death and massacre of their loved ones. He stated, “I don’t know how to properly honor their sacrifices. We must remember to act responsibly and follow regulations in our respective workplaces with greater enthusiasm.”  

He also emphasized the undeniable contributions of Bangladeshis to the development of the UAE, noting that the hard work of Bangladeshi laborers is evident in the country's roads, key infrastructure, and towering skyscrapers. Ambassador Ansari expressed hope that the UAE government would show greater interest in hiring skilled workers from Bangladesh, including doctors, engineers, IT professionals, and unskilled laborers.  

Mushfiqur Fazal Ansari added, “Dr. Yunus is a person of such stature that he commands immense respect and admiration globally. No head of state can ignore his requests. The UAE’s leadership could not disregard his appeals either.”  

He further stated that the people of Bangladesh would forever remain grateful to the UAE’s leadership. He assured that the current visa complications would soon be resolved, and the strong friendship between the two nations would remain unshaken.  

Ambassador Abdullah Ali Abdullah Khasif Al Hamudi also shared optimistic news about UAE visas, stating that by mid-February, visa complications for Bangladeshis would be resolved. This includes the reinstatement of travel visas and all other types of visas.  

He mentioned that visa issuance is currently suspended for Bangladesh and several other countries. A few years ago, the number of Bangladeshis in the UAE was only 700,000 to 800,000. That figure has now surpassed 1.2 million, which is the highest among many countries.  

Expressing his desire to choose Bangladesh as his second home after retirement, Ambassador Hamudi remarked, “Ambassador Mushfiq is my friend. His struggle and advocacy for the people of Bangladesh inspire me. I am delighted to participate in his reception ceremony.”  

The event, presided over by Engineer Moazzem Hossain, included speeches by Zakir Hossain, Dr. Reza Khan, Engineer MA Salam Khan, and Dubai’s Acting Consul General Ashfaq Hossain, among others.