Pakistanis in UAE Can Continue Using Home Country SIMs Without Blocking

Pakistanis living in the UAE and other countries can now continue using their home country mobile SIMs without facing disconnection, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced. Under the new facilitative measures, subscribers are required to notify their respective service providers to ensure continuity of service during their stay abroad.

The PTA said the initiative is aimed at serving the country’s diaspora, which includes over 1.7 million Pakistanis in the UAE and around 10 million worldwide, with more than 5.5 million residing in Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE. “This initiative enables Pakistani citizens staying abroad to retain subscriptions to their mobile SIMs, ensuring uninterrupted access to mobile services through their respective service providers,” the regulator stated.

Prepaid subscribers are required to generate at least one activity such as making a call, sending an SMS, using mobile data, or topping up their balance within 180 days to maintain their connection. Postpaid users must ensure timely payment of monthly line rents and any outstanding dues, with regular payments sufficient to keep the connection active.

The PTA advised Pakistanis in the UAE to remain in regular contact with their service providers and comply with usage and payment requirements to avoid service interruptions. The announcement has been welcomed by the Pakistani community in the UAE, as it will allow them to stay connected with family and friends in their home country.