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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has temporarily allowed residents whose residency permits expired while they were outside the country to return without applying for a new entry visa, as airspace closures across the region have prevented many from traveling back.
The decision was announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security and will remain in effect for one month starting on Feb. 28, 2026. It applies to residents who were abroad and whose residency permits expired on or after that date while they were unable to return due to flight suspensions or airspace closures.
Authorities said eligible residents will be able to enter the UAE until March 31, 2026, without submitting a new visa application, allowing them to regularise their legal status without incurring financial penalties linked to the expiration of their residency permits.
Officials explained that the move was introduced to address exceptional circumstances that left many residents stranded abroad when travel routes across the region were disrupted.
Airspace closures and flight cancellations prevented residents from returning to the UAE in time to renew their permits, prompting authorities to introduce the temporary measure so affected individuals could travel back and resume their legal residency status.
The authority framed the policy as part of an effort to reduce the burden on residents facing unexpected travel restrictions and to help them continue their lives and work in the country once normal travel conditions resume.
Officials said these measures aim to ensure smooth travel procedures and to address cases linked to postponed or rescheduled flights, while providing assistance to residents affected by the disruptions.
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