With each emerging challenge, the UAE reaffirms its long-standing humanitarian and progressive approach, rooted since the establishment of the Union, by extending support to those affected and placing exceptional circumstances at the forefront, enabled by the flexibility and forward-looking nature of the legislative framework governing government institutions.
This progressive and humanitarian vision has been successfully implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) under the exceptional circumstances experienced in the region since 28 February 2026, and has received widespread recognition both locally and internationally.
These exceptional circumstances resulted in a large number of citizens being stranded abroad, as well as residents overseas whose residency permits expired while they were outside UAE.
ICP acted to address the implications of the crisis with a clear vision, sound judgement, and exceptional decisions across all areas. It facilitated the entry of stranded citizens, in coordination with partners from government and private entities, and provided all necessary facilitations to ensure their safe and timely return. It also allowed residents abroad whose residency permits had expired while outside UAE to enter the country without the need for a new entry visa until the end of March 2026, with exemptions from overstay fines.
ICP’s decisions in addressing the implications of the crisis were marked by speed and inclusiveness across all affected groups, a clear understanding of the challenges faced by the community, and the provision of all possible facilitations. This was further reinforced by a high level of coordination with partners in delivering material, moral, and legislative support, reflecting the UAE’s progressive and humanitarian vision and strengthening social cohesion.
