The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security in the United Arab Emirates has allowed residents stranded abroad with expired residency permits to return to the country due to ongoing airspace disruptions in the region.
According to the authority, the special measure took effect on February 28, 2026, and will remain valid until March 31, 2026.
The move comes as airspace closures and flight suspensions across the region have prevented many UAE residents from returning to the country.
The decision applies to UAE residents who were outside the country and whose residency permits expired on or after February 28, 2026, while they were abroad.
These residents were unable to return due to flight disruptions or airspace restrictions affecting international travel.
Under the temporary policy, eligible residents can enter the UAE without applying for a new entry visa during the specified period.
Upon arrival, they will be allowed to regularise their residency status without paying the fines that would normally apply for overstaying or expired permits.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security said the decision was taken in response to exceptional circumstances affecting residents abroad due to disruptions in global air travel.
The authority added that the measure aims to facilitate the return of residents and ease the impact of travel disruptions caused by the regional situation.