For many Pakistani fans of Coldplay, the English rock band’s concerts in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from January 9-14 were more than just a musical event — they represented a once-in-a-lifetime dream. However, for a Pakistani couple, their excitement turned to heartbreak as their UAE visitor visa applications were rejected, forcing them to miss the event they had anticipated for months.
Speaking to TRT World, the husband, who wished to remain anonymous, shared his disappointment: “We were extremely dejected. My wife, friends, and I were thrilled at the prospect of seeing Coldplay live. It was a long-awaited dream.”
The couple had meticulously planned their trip, applying for their UAE visas a month in advance as required. Despite submitting all necessary documents, their applications were denied without explanation just two days after submission.
“We looked into reapplying, but the financial loss was too much,” he added. “It seemed no one was getting the visa anyway.”
Financial and emotional loss
A 60-day UAE visit visa costs 46,500 Pakistani rupees (around $168), while tickets to Coldplay’s concerts are priced at AED 434 (approximately $120). The couple’s financial setback extended beyond visa costs, as they also faced cancellation charges for their flight reservations and were eventually forced to sell their concert tickets.
The wife, equally disheartened, described the emotional toll: “It’s extremely disappointing and sad to be singled out like this. We lost money, our holiday plans were ruined, and it tainted something we truly loved — Coldplay.”
A Wider issue
The couple’s plight mirrors the experience of many other Pakistanis. Social media platforms have been flooded with similar stories of rejected visas, with many scrambling to resell concert tickets. A Pakistani Facebook group now hosts a growing number of posts offering tickets to Coldplay’s concerts as fans attempt to recoup their losses.
“This is not just about missing a concert,” said Sara, a Coldplay fan who also faced visa rejection. “UAE always felt welcoming, especially during the 2000s when Pakistanis struggled to get visas to other countries. Now, this rejection feels like a harsh blow.”
Lack of clarity
Despite the mounting frustrations, the UAE government has denied any blanket ban on Pakistani visas. However, the reasons for these rejections remain unclear.
Last year, the Pakistani embassy in Abu Dhabi issued a statement urging citizens to adhere to UAE visit visa requirements, cautioning travelers to ensure proper documentation and funds to avoid being sent back. The advisory followed an increase in cases where Pakistani workers were denied entry due to incomplete paperwork.
For Coldplay fans, however, the heartbreak of missing their favorite band lingers. While the band’s music is often a uniting force, for many, this experience has left a sour note.
