DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced a temporary measure allowing expatriate residents whose residency visas expired while they were abroad to return to the country without needing a new entry permit.
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According to the ICP, the measure will be in effect from February 28 to March 31, 2026. The move addresses exceptional circumstances that prevented some residents from returning to the UAE before their visas expired, including regional airspace closures and flight suspensions.
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Residents whose visas expired after February 28, 2026, while outside the UAE will be permitted to re-enter during the specified period. Importantly, no fines will be imposed during this grace period. Upon arrival, returning residents can regularise their residency status through the relevant official procedures.
The ICP emphasized that the initiative is designed to facilitate the return of expatriates and ease travel procedures during these extraordinary circumstances. Authorities noted that the move reflects the UAE’s commitment to flexible administrative measures and humanitarian considerations, ensuring that families separated by travel disruptions can reunite.
Emergency and business continuity plans remain active at airports and other operational facilities, the ICP confirmed, to ensure smooth processing for returning residents. Officials urged affected expatriates to comply with all required procedures upon arrival to update their residency status.
The authority added that the decision is part of broader efforts to support expatriate residents in managing unexpected challenges, highlighting the UAE’s proactive approach in addressing administrative hurdles caused by travel disruptions.
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This temporary provision is expected to help thousands of residents who were unable to return on time due to circumstances beyond their control, allowing them to resume normal life and employment without facing penalties or delays.