Middle East Crisis: Authorities have provided relief to tourists and some residents who were unable to leave the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to airspace closures amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Authorities have announced that tourists who depart late will not be fined.
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security stated that the exemption applies to anyone unable to travel due to flight suspensions or rescheduling caused by the “extraordinary regional situation.”
Who is eligible for the visa overstay fee waiver?
The authority stated that this decision applies to all cases where people were unable to leave the UAE due to urgent circumstances, including visitors with visit visas, tourist visas, or exit permits, as well as residents who canceled their residency permits in preparation for departure.
Therefore, this exemption applies to fines imposed on or after February 28, 2026, when the US and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury against Iran.
The authority further stated that this move reflects the UAE’s “civilized and humanitarian values” in case of emergencies.
Special teams assisting stranded passengers
In light of the current situation, the authority also stated that special teams at the country’s airports are working in accordance with the Emergency and Business Continuity Plan and are working to resolve issues related to delayed, canceled, or rescheduled flights.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security stated, “The Authority emphasized that all operational plans and risk management procedures have been activated in accordance with the highest approved standards, and coordination is ongoing with strategic partners and relevant authorities to ensure the continued operation of ports of entry once air traffic fully resumes.”
It also stated that it is working with relevant authorities and airport operators to arrange accommodation and food for stranded passengers.
Finally, the Authority urged travelers and the public to seek information and updates only through official channels, emphasizing that the UAE has advanced infrastructure and a robust security and operational system capable of efficiently and smoothly handling various developments.
Flight situation remains unstable
The announcement of the fine waiver comes at a time when thousands of people are stranded in Dubai and other parts of the UAE due to airspace closures and flight cancellations caused by the conflict in the Middle East.
Although flight services are gradually resuming, and airlines are taking all necessary precautions, the situation remains volatile, forcing wealthy travelers to pay more than $200,000 for flights out of the region.
The US, along with Israel, launched Operation Epic Fury against Iran on February 28, prompting Tehran to retaliate and sparking fighting in the region. As of Thursday, the sixth day of fighting, attacks and counter-attacks between the two warring groups continued, with no sign of an end to hostilities.
(With inputs from agency)