UAE announces 30-day visa grace period for those affected by regional flight disruptions

The United Arab Emirates has announced a 30-day visa grace period for travelers impacted by the ongoing Iran war, offering them additional time to resolve their visa status or depart the country without facing penalties. This measure comes amid significant travel disruptions caused by the conflict, which has led to heightened security concerns and operational challenges across the region.

The initiative was officially launched by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) on June 10, 2026, and is set to expire on July 9. The grace period applies specifically to individuals who entered the UAE under visit or tourist visas, holders of exit permits, and residents who have canceled their residency visas in anticipation of leaving. During this window, travelers are allowed to either adjust their legal status or exit the country without incurring financial penalties. The ICP emphasized that the decision was driven by the need to provide relief to those affected by the extraordinary circumstances brought about by the regional conflict.

The policy follows an earlier overstay fine amnesty introduced in March 2026, which was implemented in response to Iran’s attacks on UAE territory. These attacks triggered a nationwide closure of UAE airspace starting on February 28, 2026, leading to extensive travel restrictions and logistical challenges. The ICP stated that the initial amnesty was designed to alleviate the burden on individuals whose travel plans were disrupted by the conflict. Now, with the extension of the grace period, the UAE aims to further assist those still dealing with the fallout of the crisis.

The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority declared the complete resumption of air traffic operations on May 2, 2026, signaling a gradual return to normalcy following months of disruption. However, the impact of the conflict continues to ripple across the region, influencing international relations and travel advisories. On June 18, 2026, the U.S. and Iran signed an interim agreement aimed at ending their latest hostilities and establishing a 60-day framework for a broader peace settlement. The agreement, brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, includes provisions to halt hostilities and ensure the free flow of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif played a key role in facilitating the negotiations.

In response to the progress toward peace, the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) removed the UAE from its list of countries where citizens are advised against traveling. This change followed the U.S.-Iran agreement, reflecting a shift in the geopolitical landscape. Similarly, the FCDO updated its travel advisory for Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, indicating that these nations are now considered safer for non-essential travel. These developments underscore the growing optimism surrounding the potential resolution of the regional tensions.

As the situation stabilizes, the UAE remains committed to supporting those affected by the conflict. The ICP reiterated that the visa grace period is part of a broader effort to uphold humanitarian principles and facilitate smoother transitions for travelers. While the immediate threat of hostilities appears to have subsided, the long-term implications of the conflict continue to shape diplomatic efforts and international cooperation. With the U.S.-Iran interim agreement serving as a foundation for future dialogue, the path toward lasting peace remains uncertain but increasingly viable.