Image credit: WAM/Website
In a humanitarian gesture responding to ongoing regional challenges, the UAE has announced the exemption of all overstay fines for Iranian citizens currently in the country, whether they are residents or visitors.
بتوجيهات محمد بن زايد.. الإمارات تعفي رعايا إيران من غرامات التأخير | صحيفة الخليج https://t.co/conL3dq5Vy
— Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE (@UAEICP) June 17, 2025
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The move, made under the directives of the President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was confirmed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), according to a report by WAM, the UAE’s official news agency.
This decision comes as a result of exceptional circumstances affecting air travel in the region.
Recent airspace closures and the suspension of flights to and from Iran have left many Iranian nationals unable to return home, prompting the UAE to take humanitarian action to ease the burden on those affected.
Humanitarian support for residents and visitors
The ICP emphasized that the exemption applies to all Iranian citizens regardless of their visa type, and urged those eligible to take advantage of the policy by registering through the ICP Smart Services Platform or by visiting any ICP customer happiness center across the UAE.
“This measure reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian values and the well-being of all residents and visitors, particularly in times of crisis,” the authority stated.
Understanding UAE overstay fines for visitors
The announcement has brought renewed attention to the general rules surrounding overstay penalties in the UAE, especially for tourists and visit visa holders.
30-day visa on arrival
Tourists entering the UAE with a 30-day visa on arrival must exit the country before their visa expires. If they overstay, they will incur a daily fine. While exact fines may vary, current penalties are set at Dhs100 for the first day of overstay and Dhs50 for each additional day. Visitors are also required to pay an exit permit fee ranging from Dhs250 to Dhs350 when departing the country.
90-day visa on arrival
Travelers from certain countries are granted a 90-day multiple-entry visa upon arrival, valid for six months. This allows for a total stay of up to 90 days within that period. However, there is no grace period after the visa expires. Overstaying results in a fine of Dhs100 on the first day and Dhs50 per day thereafter, along with the required exit permit fee.
European passport holders, for example, should take note of these strict overstay rules.
Prepaid visa holders
Visitors from countries not eligible for a visa on arrival must apply for a prepaid UAE visit visa before traveling. These visas, which may be issued for 30, 60, or 90 days as single or multiple entries, also come with stringent overstay penalties.
All prepaid visa holders are subject to the same fine structure: Dhs100 for the first day of overstay, Dhs50 for each day after, and an exit permit fee of Dhs250 to Dhs350. Extensions may be arranged through the current sponsor or a new tour company, but overstay fines will still apply until the extension is processed.
The ICP and UAE authorities encourage all visitors to monitor their visa status and consult with the Amer Center or other approved service providers to ensure compliance with immigration rules.
Stay informed
With visa policies and enforcement subject to change, officials advise travelers to regularly check the official UAE government portals or consult visa experts to avoid any penalties.
