A senior Egyptian official has denied rumors of large-scale layoffs of Egyptian workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In an interview shown on local Egyptian media, Haddad Al Gohary, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt for Consular Affairs, clearly stated that the rumors circulating on social media are false.
He specified that the Egyptian embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai have not found any cases of mass layoffs or visa cancellations for Egyptian workers. The official noted that visas are issued regularly, and many Egyptian companies obtain visas specifically for their employees and workers who have investments in the UAE.
Al Gohary reported that Egyptian authorities have investigated cases concerning individuals whose visas were canceled or who were dismissed from the UAE. He acknowledged that some people did indeed have revoked residency permits and published this video on social media.
However, Al Gohary explained that in most such cases, the individuals violated the rules of stay in the UAE. Furthermore, he mentioned instances where individuals who entered on a tourist visa could not find work in the UAE and were forced to return to Egypt.
When asked about reports of a collective trend of Egyptians being laid off from the UAE, the official immediately rejected this idea. He stated that the investigation revealed only isolated cases of illegal stay or overstaying, and that this UAE legislation applies to all foreign nationalities, not just Egyptians.
Affirming diplomatic relations between the UAE and Egypt, Al Gohary announced that negotiations will take place between the consulates of the two countries in October, during which all such cases of Egyptian layoffs will be reviewed. He assured the public that the UAE authorities cooperate with their Egyptian counterparts and also mentioned the establishment of a joint committee to discuss any issues concerning Egyptian citizens residing or visiting the UAE.
Al Gohary expressed deep respect for the UAE and its historical ties with Egypt, stating: 'We will never forget Sheikh Zayed, whom Egypt revered in every corner, district, and street. Egyptians feel immense love, affection, and respect for the UAE.'
In turn, Dr. Anwar Gargash, advisor to the UAE President, refuted reports of 'revocation of employment residency permits' in a statement on Wednesday. He noted that some platforms 'disseminate false information about the country' while the nation is focused on 'resolving regional events and preparing for the post-stage period.' In the same statement, he also denied reports of the UAE 'providing financial funds to Iran.'
UAE authorities have repeatedly urged the public to obtain information only from official sources, warning that spreading rumors and disinformation, whether online or in person, can result in a fine of up to 200,000 dirhams in the UAE.