By Staff Reporter
DUBAI-The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced a 30-day grace period for travellers and residents whose departures were delayed by recent regional disruptions, allowing them to regularize their status or leave the country without incurring penalties.
The grace period, effective from June 10 to July 9, 2026, applies to individuals who previously benefited from exemptions on overstay fines after being unable to exit the UAE due to exceptional circumstances that affected travel across the region.
According to the ICP, the initiative is designed to support legal compliance while easing the burden on those who faced difficulties beyond their control. Eligible individuals can either adjust their residency or employment status and remain in the UAE legally, or depart the country through existing travel procedures.
The authority noted that the earlier waiver of overstay penalties reflected the UAE’s humanitarian commitment to assisting visitors and residents during emergencies. However, with stability largely restored across the region, the conditions that necessitated the exemption no longer exist.
“The circumstances that required the exemption from overstay fines have ended due to the return of stability in the region,” the authority stated.
Importantly, affected individuals are not required to complete any preliminary procedures to benefit from the grace period. Those intending to remain in the country may apply for the appropriate residency or work permits, while those planning to leave may do so directly.
The ICP has encouraged all affected persons to monitor official communication channels for updates and guidance regarding immigration procedures.
The latest measure follows a decision made in March 2026, when the authority waived overstay fines for visa holders, exit permit holders, and residents with cancelled visas who were unable to depart because of airspace closures and flight suspensions that began on February 28, 2026.
Officials said the temporary exemption was introduced to protect travellers from financial penalties resulting from circumstances outside their control.
Key Dates
- Grace Period Begins: June 10, 2026
- Grace Period Ends: July 9, 2026
- Who Benefits: Travellers, visa holders, and residents previously exempted from overstay fines due to regional travel disruptions.
- Options Available: Adjust residency/employment status or depart the UAE without penalties during the grace period.
The announcement underscores the UAE’s continued effort to balance humanitarian considerations with adherence to immigration regulations.
Source: Gulf News
