UAE Gives 30-Day Visa Grace Period to Travellers Affected by Regional Travel Disruptions
Dubai, UAE: The UAE has announced a 30-day visa grace period for travellers and residents who were unable to leave the country because of recent regional travel disruptions.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) said the special grace period will run from June 10 to July 9, 2026. During this time, affected individuals can either update their residency status or leave the UAE without paying overstay fines.
The decision applies to people who had earlier received an exemption from overstay penalties after flight suspensions and airspace closures prevented them from departing the country.
According to the ICP, the move helps people follow UAE immigration laws while giving them enough time to regularize their status after travel conditions in the region returned to normal.
The authority said its earlier exemption from overstay fines reflected the UAE’s humanitarian approach during emergencies and difficult situations. It was introduced to support visitors and residents who faced unexpected travel problems beyond their control.
Officials noted that the exceptional circumstances that led to the fine waiver no longer exist, as stability has now returned across the region.
Travellers who wish to remain in the UAE can use the grace period to change or renew their residency or employment status. Those planning to leave the country can do so directly through normal departure procedures.
The ICP confirmed that affected individuals do not need to complete any additional preliminary steps before benefiting from the grace period.
Authorities also encouraged residents and visitors to follow official government channels for the latest updates and immigration guidance.
Earlier this year, in March 2026, the UAE waived overstay fines for visa holders, exit permit holders, and residents with cancelled visas who were stranded in the country due to airspace closures and suspended flights that began on February 28, 2026.
The latest decision aims to ease the burden on affected travellers while ensuring compliance with UAE residency and visa regulations.
