World

UAE extends residency permits, waives fines for overstaying

April 05, 2020
Travelers wear masks as they arrive at Dubai International Airport in this file photo
Travelers wear masks as they arrive at Dubai International Airport in this file photo

By Tamara Abueish

DUBAI -- All residency visas will be extended in the UAE, and all administrative fines will be waived for anyone who overstays their visit visa, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported on Sunday citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The decision came during a meeting held with ambassadors and consuls of the UAE to discuss the latest coronavirus developments and precautionary measures in the country, according to WAM.

The UAE has reported 1,505 cases of coronavirus so far and 10 virus-related deaths.

The suspension of all valid UAE residency visas currently outside the country has also been extended, the WAM report said.

Meanwhile, all passenger and transit flights to and from the UAE will continue to be halted, and only particular flights carrying residents and visitors who wish to be repatriated will be allowed.

A committee has also been formed to facilitate the repatriation of visitors in the country, WAM reported.

Dubai announced on Saturday the extension of a nighttime curfew to 24 hours a day for two weeks. Since late March, the UAE has imposed strict restrictions on movement between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. during a nationwide disinfection program. -- Al Arabiya English


April 05, 2020
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