UAE, Kuwait and Qatar Extend Visas and Waive Fines After Middle East Airspace Closures
Gulf countries are taking quick steps to protect residents and visitors after several Middle East airspaces closed. Because flights were cancelled or delayed, many travellers became stuck in the region. Some people were worried because their visas had expired or were about to expire.
Authorities in the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar have now announced special measures. These include visa extensions and the cancellation of overstay fines. Officials say the goal is to make sure people remain safe and legally protected during the travel disruption.
These actions show how Gulf countries are responding to the emergency while helping travellers who cannot leave because of situations beyond their control.
UAE allows visitors to stay without fines
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security announced that visitors and some residents will not be fined if they stay longer than their visa due to flight disruptions.
This rule applies from February 28, 2026. It covers tourists on visit or tourist visas, people holding exit permits and residents who cancelled their residency visas while preparing to leave the country.
Authorities said the decision was taken because many travellers cannot leave the UAE after flights were cancelled when regional airspace closed.
Kuwait gives one-month visa extension
Kuwait has also introduced temporary measures to help travellers. The government announced that all visit and entry visas will be automatically extended for one month starting February 28, 2026.
Residents who are currently outside Kuwait and have stayed away longer than allowed will receive an automatic three-month absence permit.
Officials said the entire process will be done electronically, so people do not need to visit any office. All related fines and fees have also been cancelled. Authorities added that further extensions could be given if the situation continues.
Residents were advised to follow official updates through government platforms such as the Sahel app and Residency Affairs departments.
Qatar extends all visas for one month
Qatar has also announced a one-month extension for all visas starting February 28, 2026. The extension applies to every type of visa, including visas that have already expired or are about to expire. The process will happen automatically online and people do not need to apply.
Authorities confirmed that visa extension fees will be waived. However, people who already have visa violations must clear their previous fines first.
Officials also advised residents and visitors to stay indoors when possible and follow safety instructions because of rising tensions in the region.
Gulf countries focus on safety and legal protection
The decisions by the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar show that Gulf countries are focusing on the safety and legal protection of people during the travel disruption.
By extending visas and cancelling fines, the governments are helping stranded travellers avoid legal problems until flights return to normal.
