The Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced that discounted flight tickets will be offered to illegal residents who plan to leave the UAE as part of the visa amnesty program. Maj-Gen Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, deputy director-general of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai, confirmed that UAE airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, and Air Arabia will provide discounted airfare to those facing financial constraints. The amnesty program will run for two months from September 1 to October 30, 2024, covering all visa types, including tourist and expired residency visas.
The program also extends to individuals born without documents, absconded from sponsors, or have expired visas, providing them with an opportunity to rectify their status. However, those who entered the country illegally are not eligible for the program. The ICP assured that there will be no overstay fines or exit fees for participants, and entry bans will not be imposed. Participants can return to the UAE with the appropriate visa at any time. Coordination meetings with airline representatives have resulted in discounted ticket prices for program participants.
To obtain an exit permit, individuals with biometric records can apply online for a departure permit, which will be issued promptly. Those without biometric records will need to visit designated centers for fingerprinting procedures, available for ages 15 and above. In Abu Dhabi, centers are located in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Mqam, and Al Shahama, while in Dubai, the procedure can be completed at the GDRFA center in Al Awir. Residents with visas issued in other emirates must visit their respective service centers.
Upon leaving the country, individuals will receive an exit pass valid for 14 days after release. The visa violator can depart without administrative restrictions affecting return to the UAE, meaning there will be no ban stamp on their passport, allowing re-entry on valid visas. Failure to depart within the 14-day grace period will result in automatic re-imposition of previous fines and restrictions, requiring settlement of status within the specified timeframe.
In conclusion, the UAE visa amnesty program offers illegal residents a chance to rectify their status and exit the country without facing overstay fines or entry bans. Discounted airfare from Emirates, Etihad, and Air Arabia aim to alleviate financial constraints for program participants, facilitating their departure. Coordination between ICP and airline representatives ensures a smooth process for those seeking to avail of the amnesty. By following the exit permit procedures and adhering to the 14-day grace period, residents can leave the UAE with the opportunity for future return on valid visas.
