International

UAE Announces 5-Day Closure of All Immigration Offices

The immigration departments across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have announced a temporary suspension of operations from June 4 to June 8, 2025, in observance of Eid Al Adha. This five-day pause will affect all immigration-related services, potentially causing delays for travelers and individuals handling visa or residency matters.

Services Affected During the Closure

All standard operations within UAE immigration offices will be suspended during the holiday, which may lead to service disruptions and processing delays.

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1. Visa Services

Processing of new visa applications, renewals, extensions, or status changes will be halted. Applications submitted shortly before the break may face extended wait times.

2. Residency Permits

Services related to residency permit issuance, renewal, or cancellation will not be available during the closure period.

3. Entry and Exit Procedures

While border checkpoints at airports and land crossings will remain operational for travelers with valid visas or visa-on-arrival eligibility, support for special immigration queries may be limited due to reduced staffing.

4. Customer Support

Immigration help desks and call centers are expected to operate with minimal staff or could remain closed altogether, making immediate assistance less accessible.

5. Fines and Violations

Services for paying fines or addressing immigration violations, including overstay penalties, will be suspended until after the Eid holidays.

Advice for Travelers and Visa Holders

Anyone with upcoming travel or visa-related concerns should take timely steps to avoid complications:

  • Submit Applications in Advance

If you need to extend your visa or make changes to your immigration status, it’s advised to complete the process well before June 4 to avoid processing delays or potential penalties.

  • Avoid Traveling During Closure

Try to schedule your entry into or departure from the UAE outside the closure window. Arriving without a confirmed visa during this time may result in entry issues.

  • Verify Visa Validity

Ensure your visa or entry permit is valid and approved before traveling. Avoid relying on last-minute approvals during this period.

  • Keep Essential Documents Handy

Carry physical and digital copies of all required travel and visa documents to avoid any issues during transit or entry checks.

  • Stay Updated with Official Channels

Monitor announcements from the UAE immigration authorities for any changes to schedules or service availability.

Post-Holiday Considerations

Once offices reopen on June 9, 2025, a backlog of applications and inquiries is expected. Individuals should anticipate longer-than-usual processing times and plan accordingly. In case of emergencies, travelers may reach out to their respective embassies or consulates, although their ability to assist with immigration procedures may be limited.

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Published by
Rija Sohaib