UAE May Reassess Visa-Free Travel for Uzbeks After Dubai Incident

The United Arab Emirates is considering a review of its visa-free agreement with Uzbekistan following the detention of 15 Uzbek nationals, according to Akhror Burkhanov, spokesperson for Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Earlier, reports circulated on social media about a stabbing incident involving Uzbek citizens in Dubai. In response, Uzbekistan’s diplomats held a meeting with the leadership of Dubai’s Criminal Investigation Department to clarify the circumstances surrounding the case, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

UAE authorities confirmed that an investigation is currently underway and that 15 Uzbek nationals have been detained in connection with the incident.

It was also emphasized that the increasing number of offenses committed by Uzbek citizens in recent times could impact the visa-free travel arrangement between the two countries.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan stated that it is actively addressing the matter in cooperation with the relevant law enforcement agencies.

"We urge Uzbek citizens to refrain from actions that tarnish the reputation of our compatriots abroad," the statement read.