Has the UAE overstay fine waiver ended?
Yes. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) ended the emergency measures that protected people stranded by the regional airspace closures. The 30-day grace window ran from 10 June to 9 July 2026, and from 10 July the standard overstay rules apply again.
| When | What happened |
|---|---|
| From 28 February 2026 | Regional airspace closures and flight suspensions leave many visitors and residents unable to leave |
| March 2026 | ICP waives overstay fines for people who could not exit because of the closures |
| 10 June to 9 July 2026 | The waiver is cancelled and a final 30-day window lets people leave or regularise their status without fines |
| From 10 July 2026 | Standard overstay rules apply |
What overstay fine applies now?
The standard overstay fine is AED 50 a day. Fines add up quickly and can complicate future entry, visa applications and airport check-in. Our guide explains how to calculate and pay it: UAE overstay fine, grace periods and how to pay. For visit visas, see the UAE tourist visa guide.
What should you do if you are still in the UAE after your visa ended?
- Check your status through the official ICP or GDRFA Dubai channels, since eligibility and balances depend on your visa type and immigration record.
- Decide whether to leave or regularise. You can exit the country, or change to another lawful status or extend where the rules allow.
- Pay any fines through the official channels before you travel, so you are not stopped at the airport.
Employers and travel managers should check any staff or guests who relied on the waiver, because their cases are now handled under normal enforcement.
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