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Dubai Property Ownership Revealed: Pakistani Officials and Prominent Figures Named in Extensive Leak.
An unprecedented leak of Dubai property ownership exposes the involvement of Pakistani officials and notable personalities. Stay tuned as Dawn uncovers the details.
ND
by News Desk
2024-05-14
Dubai Property Ownership Revealed: Pakistani Officials and Prominent Figures Named in Extensive Leak.

 A massive trove of leaked data has brought to light the extensive ownership of properties in Dubai by Pakistani citizens, including prominent figures from political and public spheres. Journalists, armed with this leaked data, have meticulously scrutinized the identities of individuals listed, cross-referencing with official records and conducting exhaustive investigations to verify ownership statuses.

The leaked data, comprising over 17,000 properties linked to Pakistani nationals up to the spring of 2022, offers a comprehensive overview of Dubai's property landscape. Collaborative efforts by global media outlets, coordinated by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), have shed light on this phenomenon through an initiative titled 'Dubai Unlocked', involving 74 partners from 58 countries.

While mere inclusion in the leaked data does not imply criminal activity, it underscores the stark contrasts within Pakistan's socio-economic fabric. Despite grappling with economic challenges, the data reveals a staggering number of Pakistani property owners in Dubai, estimated to be around 22,000, with an approximate property value exceeding $12.5 billion.

Among the notable names disclosed in the leaked data are offspring of political leaders, government officials, and influential personalities from various sectors. While some properties have been declared, the revelation raises questions about tax compliance and transparency.

Efforts by Pakistani authorities to acquire information regarding citizens' assets abroad have faced hurdles, with Dubai authorities reluctant to cooperate. Taxation laws pertaining to overseas assets are also under scrutiny, with ongoing legal challenges.

Addressing the issue, Malik Amjed Zubair Tiwana, chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), emphasized the government's commitment to tackling tax evasion. However, challenges persist in obtaining comprehensive data and enforcing tax laws effectively.

Ali Rahim, a tax lawyer, elucidated the taxation regulations applicable to Pakistanis with overseas assets, highlighting the complexities surrounding residency status and tax liabilities.

The revelation of extensive property ownership in Dubai by Pakistani nationals underscores the need for enhanced transparency and accountability measures to ensure tax compliance and equitable wealth distribution.
Tagged:

Pakistan

TaxTransparency

DubaiProperty

PropertyOwnership

GlobalInvestigation
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