Demand to appoint Arabic-speaking officials at the UAE embassy

Bangladeshi expatriates have demanded the appointment of officials with proficiency in Arabic and experience in the Gulf region in the Bangladesh Embassy and Consulate in the United Arab Emirates. They have called for giving priority to these qualifications, especially for ambassadors, consuls general, and labor wing officials.

According to expatriates, insufficient knowledge of the local language and culture is creating various limitations in effective communication with high-level officials of the UAE government and developing bilateral relations. As a result, solutions to many important issues of expatriates are also being delayed.

Ordinary expatriates say that one of the main means of conducting diplomatic and commercial activities in the Gulf countries is the local language and personal relationships. Due to the appointment of new and inexperienced officials in the missions, it takes a long time to understand the local administrative structure and establish effective communication with the relevant officials. This slows down the speed of resolving the problems of expatriates.

They complain that in many cases, officials are appointed who are more focused on administrative responsibilities and maintaining positions than on public welfare activities. As a result, it is not possible to ensure the expected services to expatriates.

One of the main concerns of Bangladeshis currently living in the United Arab Emirates is visa complications, delays in visa renewal, long-term suspension of labor visas, job loss, residency permit (Aqama) issues, and various legal complications. Many are suffering from difficulty in getting the necessary assistance in these matters.

Expatriates claim that the lack of sufficient Arabic-speaking officials or skilled translators in the mission makes it difficult to maintain necessary communication with local administration, courts, and other government institutions. As a result, in many cases, necessary guidance is not available at the right time.