ICA exempts visitors, residents with cancelled visas, and departure permit holders from overstay penalties following flight suspensions triggered by regional airspace disruptions.
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICA) has announced a waiver of late departure fines for travellers who were unable to leave the country due to the recent closure of regional airspace and the suspension of several international flights.
The decision comes as part of the UAE government’s response to exceptional circumstances that disrupted travel schedules across the region, preventing many visitors and residents from departing on their originally scheduled flights.
According to the authority, the exemption applies to all individuals who were unable to exit the UAE due to flight cancellations or rescheduling, including visit visa holders, tourist visa holders, individuals with departure permits, and residents who had cancelled their residency visas in preparation for leaving the country.
The waiver covers fines imposed from February 28, 2026, ensuring that affected travellers can regularise their legal status without incurring additional financial penalties due to circumstances beyond their control.
Humanitarian Response to Exceptional Travel Disruptions
The ICA emphasised that the decision reflects the UAE’s humanitarian approach to addressing emergencies and unforeseen situations that impact travellers and visitors.
Authorities noted that the disruption was caused by exceptional regional developments that led to the temporary closure of airspace and the suspension or rescheduling of multiple flights, leaving some passengers unable to depart on their planned dates.
In response, specialised teams across UAE airports and Customer Happiness Centres have been working under emergency and business continuity plans to facilitate procedures for affected travellers.
UAE Authorities Mobilise Support Teams
The authority confirmed that coordination is ongoing with relevant government entities and aviation authorities to assist travellers whose journeys were impacted.
Dedicated teams continue to provide support to passengers facing travel delays, including those requiring assistance with postponed or rescheduled flights.
UAE Reinforces Commitment to Traveller Support
Officials said the decision underscores the UAE’s commitment to supporting visitors and residents during extraordinary circumstances.
Rooted in the country’s long-standing values of tolerance, solidarity, and humanitarian assistance, the move highlights the UAE’s capacity to respond efficiently and compassionately during regional disruptions.
The ICA urged travellers and stakeholders to follow official communication channels for updates regarding travel procedures and regulatory measures related to the ongoing situation.
