Iranians currently in the UAE—whether residents or visitors on any type of visa—will not be penalized for overstaying, the country’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced on Tuesday.
According to a Khaleej Times report, the decision comes in light of the worsening situation in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran that has led to the suspension of flights and closure of airspace. Iranian nationals stranded in the UAE are now unable to return home, prompting this humanitarian measure.
The waiver, approved under the directive of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is intended to ease the burden on Iranians who have been caught in this unfolding crisis.
The ICP urged affected individuals to register for the exemption via its smart services platform or by visiting designated customer happiness centres across the Emirates.
This move mirrors the UAE’s earlier decision to exempt Sudanese nationals from overstay penalties starting May 19, 2024, in response to the ongoing crisis in Sudan. That exemption is set to remain valid until December 31, 2025.