FLASH NEWSLeave or Regularise: What Overstayers Could Do Before 9 July 2026

What were the two options during the grace window?

Before the window closed on 9 July 2026, travellers who had relied on the airspace-closure waiver had two routes: leave the UAE, or regularise their status through ICP and GDRFA channels. Both avoided overstay fines during the window.

1. Leave the country. Depart through any official exit point. This was the simplest route for visitors whose stay had no lawful basis left.
2. Regularise status. Change visa status, extend, or obtain a new lawful basis to stay where the rules allow. Eligibility depends on visa type, entry emirate and immigration record, so it had to be checked on the official channels.

What if you missed the deadline?

Standard rules apply. The overstay fine is AED 50 a day, and unpaid fines can complicate future entry or visa issuance. Check your status on the official ICP or GDRFA Dubai channels and settle fines before you travel. Our guide explains how: UAE overstay fine, grace periods and how to pay. The background is in what applies now that the waiver has ended.