UAE Visa Rules: Don’t Get Fined! Avoid These Overstay Mistakes

Travel agencies in Dubai are urging tourists to be aware of the strict visa regulations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after a rise in cases of visitors overstaying their permits and absconding. These incidents lead to hefty fines and operational challenges for travel agencies.

Stricter Rules for Overstayers

A major factor contributing to visa overstays is the misconception about the visa grace period. Contrary to popular belief, the UAE abolished the 10-day grace period last year.

Many visitors are unaware of this change, leading to unintentional overstays. Travel agency executives regularly encounter visitors who are in denial about the absence of a grace period.

“Travel agencies regularly inform visitors that there’s no grace period anymore, Unfortunately, some still believe they have extra days after their visa expires, resulting in unexpected fines.”

Financial Constraints

Unexpected financial hardships can also cause visitors to extend their stay. Some visitors find themselves in sudden financial distress, making it difficult for them to leave the UAE on time. Additionally, Dubai’s diverse attractions and lifestyle can entice visitors to prolong their stay, often without considering the legal repercussions.

Must Read: Avoid Overstay Fines: Here’s How to Check Your UAE Visa Status, Validity, Issuance and Expiry Dates

Job Hunting and Visa Status Neglect

Another common reason for visitors overstaying their visas is the pursuit of employment opportunities. Many visitors are drawn to Dubai by the prospect of finding a job and tend to neglect their visa status while waiting for interview calls.

This situation often results in legal complications for both the visitors and the travel agencies. Job seekers often overstay their visas while waiting for job interviews, hoping to secure employment.

Overstaying Due to Job Search

A recent example involves a visitor who arrived in Dubai to visit relatives. During the stay, the visitor applied for a job and was called for an interview, which led to forgetting about the visa expiry date.

The visitor overstayed for nearly eight days but was eventually able to secure a job. Approximately Dh1,000 in fines were paid before exiting the country, and the visitor later returned with residency status.

Travel Agencies Face Penalties

Travel agencies are not exempt from the consequences of overstaying visitors. When a visitor absconds, the agency is responsible for fines and may even face limitations on processing future visas.

Plan Your Trip Carefully

Travellers planning a visit to Dubai should thoroughly research visa regulations and ensure their travel dates align with their visa validity. Unexpected situations can arise, so it’s crucial to plan for potential delays and communicate with your travel agency if any issues occur during your stay.

(Source and Inputs from Khaleej Times)