EU panel backs visa-free travel for UAE nationals

 

The European Union Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Thursday adopted a report recommending that visa requirements to enter the EU for UAE nationals be waived.

 

Mariya Gabriel, the author of the report, told a meeting of the panel Thursday that the UAE is interested in strengthening ties with Europe.

 

"There is no risk of illegal immigration. Trips made by UAE nationals to Europe are mainly for business, tourism, studies or health care," Gabriel said, emphasising that the UAE will comply with total reciprocity regarding the visa waiving.

 

If approved, this would make the UAE the first Arab country whose nationals will enjoy visa-free travel to the EU countries.

 

An official from the EU panel said the group's executive body is in favour of lifting the visa for UAE citizens.

 

The EU committee will vote on the report later this month and after that the report will go before the full European Parliament and the council of ministers for their approval by mid-2014.