Over the past six to eight weeks international travel has had a major upheaval due to the coronavirus pandemic. This has affected many people in the UAE and left a feeling of uncertainty amongst many, especially to do with visas.
However, a recent announcement from the UAE government will bring some relief to those who are struggling with their visas – all UAE visas fines have been waived.
Those with entry or residency permits that expired before March 1, 2020 will not be subjected to fines.
The directive came from the President of the UAE, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, which was announced via the UAE government Twitter account.
As a gesture of appreciation to the frontline teams @HHShkMohd grants the 10-year golden residency visa to doctors at @DHA_Dubai, who attend directly to COVID-19 patients, securing the well-being of our society.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 13, 2020
The statement came from Brigadier Khamis Al Kaabi, a spokesperson of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, who said, “As per the directives of UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, holders of both residency and visit visas that expired in early March are exempted from fines.
“They have a three-month grace period to depart UAE starting May 18th.”
Brigadier Khamis Al Kaabi also clarified that this would not affect anyone from returning to the country when they meet the necessary requirements, and he also added the order “includes the waiver of fines on expired Emirates ID and work permits”.
He also encouraged those in need of help to access the smart platform for the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
Following the outbreak of coronavirus, airlines including UAE-based Emirates and Etihad, have been offering repatriate flights for those who have been stranded away from their home countries. Recently it was announced both the major UAE airlines were launching limited incoming flights in order to help stranded UAE citizens and residents to return to the country.
