Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing consular cooperation during the second Joint Consular Committee Consultation (JCCC), held in Jakarta on December 11–12, 2024. The discussions focused on key issues such as the protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, immigration data exchange, diplomatic facilities, and a visa-free travel agreement for ordinary passport holders.
Strengthening Protection for Indonesian Migrant Workers
The meeting, co-chaired by Ambassador Andy Rachmianto, Indonesia’s Director General of Protocol and Consular Affairs, and H.E. Khaled Abdullah Belhoul, Under Secretary of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed pressing consular issues, particularly the welfare and protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers in the UAE. Both nations agreed on the importance of improving systems to safeguard workers’ rights and streamlining coordination between relevant authorities.
Representatives from key ministries, including Indonesia’s Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers and UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation, participated in the discussions. The aim was to ensure that Indonesian workers in the UAE receive the necessary legal, social, and economic protections.
Visa-Free Travel for Tourism and Business
One of the pivotal topics discussed was the Visa-Free Travel Agreement for ordinary passport holders. The agreement, aimed at boosting bilateral tourism and business ties, allows Indonesian citizens to visit the UAE without a visa for short stays. However, both sides clarified that the visa-free privilege cannot be used or converted for employment purposes.
This initiative reflects the growing economic and cultural connections between the two nations, with the visa exemption expected to promote mutual exchange and support the UAE’s vision to attract international visitors.
Embracing Technology in Consular Services
The delegations also explored the use of advanced technology to enhance the efficiency of consular services and citizen protection mechanisms. These innovations include digital systems for tracking immigration data and providing updated information to citizens, further strengthening the infrastructure supporting bilateral consular cooperation.
Signing the Agreed Minutes
The consultations concluded with the signing of the Agreed Minutes of the 2nd Indonesia-UAE Joint Consular Committee Consultation, solidifying the agreements reached during the two-day meeting.
A Partnership for Progress
The outcomes of this meeting underscore the commitment of Indonesia and the UAE to prioritize citizen welfare while fostering stronger diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties. As both countries continue to deepen their partnership, these initiatives are expected to enhance mobility, mutual understanding, and protection for their citizens.