UAE Announces Visa Overstay Exception for Stranded Traveller’s Due to Iran Strikes
The United Arab Emirates has announced a temporary waiver of visa overstay fines for traveller’s who were unable to leave the country due to widespread flight disruptions linked to the Iran strikes.
The decision was announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP)and is being implemented across the UAE in coordination with immigration authorities including the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
Who Qualifies for the UAE Overstay Fine Exemption
According to immigration authorities, the waiver applies to fines incurred from 28 February 2026 onwards, when the regional disruptions began affecting flights.
The exemption covers several categories of traveller’s, including:
-Tourist visa holders
-Visit visa holders
-Departure permit (exit permit) holders who exceeded their permitted grace period
-Residents who cancelled their residency visas in preparation for leaving the UAE but were unable to depart due to flight disruptions
These individuals will be able to regularize their visa status without paying overstay penalties during the affected period.
What the Rule Normally Is
Under standard UAE immigration rules introduced earlier in 2026, visitors and residents who remain in the country after their visa expires must pay a flat overstay fine of AED 50 per day until they leave or correct their visa status
You can check your visa and overstay status through:
- ICP UAE smart services portal https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae/
- GDRFA Dubai website or mobile app https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en
- Customer Happiness Center’s or AMER center’s
What Traveller’s Should Do Now
If your visa expired during the travel disruption period:
Visit GDRFA or ICP service center’s if you need assistance regularising your visa status.
Monitor updates from official UAE immigration authorities and airlines.
Keep records of flight cancellations or rescheduling notices.
