Published: 13.03.2026
UAE residents who were abroad and whose residence visas expired on or after February 28, 2026, were allowed to return without applying for a new entry permit. The temporary measure was valid until March 31, 2026, after which returnees had to renew or regularize their status through the relevant authorities.
According to sources, the measure temporarily removed the need to obtain a new entry permit for residents who could not return before their visas expired. It reduced entry formalities for those residents but did not remove the requirement to renew or regularize their immigration status after arrival. The rule primarily affected existing UAE residents who were outside the country, rather than new applicants. It was therefore important for affected travellers to check the measure’s validity period and prepare for status procedures after returning.