Dubai Consulate supports 15,000 Indians during UAE visa amnesty
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The Indian Consulate in Dubai has provided vital support to more than 15,000 Indian nationals who sought assistance during the UAE visa amnesty initiative, which concluded on December 31, 2024. The initiative offered individuals the opportunity to regularize their visa status or exit the UAE without penalties.
In a statement, the Consulate detailed its contributions, which included issuing 2,117 passports, 3,589 emergency certificates, and assisting with over 3,700 exit permits. This effort was conducted in collaboration with Indian community organizations and volunteers, demonstrating a united approach to addressing the needs of Indian citizens in the UAE.
The Consulate credited its Facilitation Centres, which operated both at the Consulate and the Al Awir Amnesty Centre, for playing a pivotal role in providing free services to those seeking assistance.
“Many individuals benefited from our guidance in obtaining fee and penalty waivers from UAE authorities,” the statement highlighted.
Expressing its gratitude, the Consulate commended the UAE Government and Indian diaspora volunteers for their unwavering support. It also encouraged Indian citizens to comply with UAE's legal procedures regarding entry, work and residency, “The Consulate remains committed to supporting the Indian community and ensuring that every citizen has access to the services they need.”
The UAE visa amnesty initiative, which began on September 1, 2024, and was initially set to end on October 31, was extended until December 31. The program allowed illegal residents and visitors without valid residency documents to rectify their visa status or leave the country without incurring fines.
Approximately 236,000 individuals in Dubai benefited from the initiative. Authorities have announced plans to increase inspection efforts in collaboration with government partners, stating that “fines for noncompliance” will be enforced against violators wherever they are found.