Pakistani embassy alerts community after UAE waives fines for some overstaying travellers

Relief applies to residents, visitors and those affected by airspace disruption

Pakistanis in UAE
Caption: UAE authorities have announced exemptions from overstay financial fines for certain residents and visitors affected by airspace closures since February 28, while the Pakistani Embassy and Consulate in the UAE have launched facilitation measures and helplines to assist community members.
Source: Supplied


DUBAI – The Pakistani Embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has informed the community that authorities have introduced financial fine exemptions for certain travellers whose stays were extended due to airspace disruptions.

The relief follows travel complications caused by regional developments that led to airspace closures beginning February 28, 2026. Pakistani missions in the UAE have also launched facilitation measures to assist affected nationals.

According to the announcement, the exemptions were introduced by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs for individuals who were unable to depart the country because of the disruption.

Fine exemptions

The relief applies to several categories of travellers whose visa status was affected by the situation.

Eligible individuals include those holding departure permits who have overstayed beyond the permitted period, residents whose residence permits were cancelled but were unable to leave the country, and visitors on tourist or visit visas whose stay expired while travel routes remained disrupted.

Authorities have advised all affected individuals to contact UAE immigration departments in order to regularise their status under the announced exemption measures.

Community briefing

Meanwhile, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai Hussain Muhammad held an online meeting with members of the Pakistani community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The session was attended by representatives of community organisations and expatriate groups.

During the meeting, the consul general briefed participants on steps taken by the Government of Pakistan to support nationals in the UAE amid the evolving regional situation.

He noted that the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai were acting under the directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to facilitate Pakistani citizens in the country.

As part of the measures, a Special Facilitation Desk has been established to assist Pakistani expatriates as well as travellers transiting through the UAE. The desk operates with 24/7 helplines aimed at addressing inquiries and assisting individuals facing travel or visa complications.

Hussain Muhammad also expressed appreciation for the efforts of UAE authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors during the current situation, particularly those in transit or travelling as tourists.

Official guidance

During the interaction, the consul general urged members of the Pakistani community to remain calm and avoid speculation regarding the ongoing developments.

He encouraged expatriates to rely only on official announcements issued by UAE authorities and emphasised the responsible use of social media during sensitive situations.

Community members were also urged to comply fully with the laws and guidelines of the host country and to help spread accurate information within the Pakistani community.

The consul general also acknowledged initiatives announced by Pakistan Association Dubai and Social Centre Sharjah to provide free medical assistance for transiting passengers and tourists affected by the disruption.

Participants in the meeting thanked the consulate for its outreach efforts and reaffirmed their willingness to support community initiatives during the current situation.