The United Arab Emirates has announced that everyone unable to leave the country following the recent airspace closure will have their overstay fines waived.

UAE visas – including visit visas, tourist visas, exit permits and residents who cancelled their residency permits – will be exempt from fines incurred on or after Saturday February 28.

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) announced the move on Wednesday March 4 to ensure that the legal status of stranded travellers can be addressed without imposing any financial burden arising from circumstances beyond their control.

There have been multiple days of cancelled, rescheduled, delayed and diverted flights across the country, which has led many to be unable to depart the country on their scheduled dates.

The authority has said that the measure reflects the UAE’s humanitarian approach in addressing emergencies and takes into account the exceptional conditions faced by travellers and visitors during this time.

Specialised teams across the country’s airports and Customer Happiness Centres are operating in accordance with emergency and business continuity plans in coordination with relevant authorities. The authority’s teams are helping address cases related to delayed or rescheduled flights, while providing the necessary support to affected travellers.

The authority also said that the UAE remains committed to providing all forms of support to travellers and visitors within the country during exceptional circumstances.

It also called on all concerned individuals to follow official government channels for updates and any regulatory measures related to these circumstances.