UAE grants final 30-day visa grace period after flight disruption exemptions
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The UAE has introduced a final 30-day grace period for individuals who previously benefited from overstay fine exemptions granted during regional airspace disruptions earlier this year.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) said the grace period began on June 10 and will remain in place until July 9, 2026.
During this period, eligible individuals can either regularise their residency or employment status and remain in the UAE or leave the country without incurring overstay penalties.
ICP said the measure follows the restoration of regional stability and the resumption of normal travel conditions that had led to the original exemption policy.
Authorities confirmed that affected individuals do not need to submit additional applications to benefit from the grace period.
Those wishing to stay in the UAE can complete the necessary procedures to adjust their legal status, while those planning to depart may do so through standard travel procedures.
In March 2026, ICP exempted individuals from overstay fines after airspace closures and flight suspensions disrupted travel across the region from February 28 onwards.
The exemption applied to visa holders, individuals with departure permits and residents whose visas had been cancelled but who were unable to leave the country because of the travel disruptions.
ICP said the earlier decision reflected the UAE’s approach to supporting residents and visitors during exceptional circumstances.
The authority has urged affected individuals to follow official communication channels for updates and information related to relevant procedures and regulations.