The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially ended its 30-day visa grace period for travellers affected by regional travel disruptions, with the deadline expiring on July 9, 2026.
The temporary measure was introduced by the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) to assist visitors who were unable to leave the country due to airspace closures and flight suspensions caused by regional tensions earlier this year.
With the grace period now over, affected visa holders are required to have either regularised their immigration status or departed the UAE. Those who fail to comply may now face overstay fines and other penalties under the country’s immigration laws.
Why was the grace period introduced?
The UAE initially waived overstay fines for travellers stranded in the country following regional conflicts involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which disrupted air travel across the Middle East from February 2026.
As flight operations gradually returned to normal, authorities announced a final 30-day grace period from June 10 to July 9, 2026, giving eligible individuals additional time to resolve their visa status or leave the country.
Who was eligible?
The grace period applied to travellers who had previously received an exemption from overstay fines after being unable to exit the UAE because of exceptional regional travel disruptions.
Options available during the grace period
Eligible individuals were allowed to:
- Regularise their immigration status by applying for residency amendments, employment visa sponsorship, or other approved visa categories.
- Leave the UAE through standard departure procedures without additional immigration requirements.
Normal rules now apply
With the grace period ending on July 9, normal immigration regulations have resumed. Travellers who have not adjusted their visa status or departed the country may now be subject to overstay fines and other legal consequences.
The ICP has advised affected individuals to ensure compliance with UAE immigration regulations to avoid penalties and maintain their legal status in the country.
FAQs
Q1: When did the UAE’s 30-day visa grace period end?
A: The UAE’s 30-day visa grace period officially ended on July 9, 2026, after running from June 10 to July 9.
Q2: Who was eligible for the UAE visa grace period?
A: The grace period applied to travellers who were unable to leave the UAE due to regional airspace closures and flight disruptions and had previously been exempted from overstay fines.
Q3: What happens now that the grace period has ended?
A: With the grace period over, normal UAE immigration rules apply. Travellers who have not regularised their visa status or left the country may face overstay fines and other immigration penalties.
Also read: Dubai announces to issue single-entry visas within 48 hours
