The Kenyan Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued an urgent advisory to Kenyan nationals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following a government announcement introducing a 30-day visa grace period for eligible individuals affected by recent regional flight disruptions.
In a statement shared on Saturday, June 20, the Embassy said the UAE government has granted the temporary grace period to allow affected individuals to either regularise their residence status or depart the country without incurring overstay penalties.
The grace period, which began on June 10, 2026, will remain in effect until July 9, 2026.
UAE Grants 30-Day Visa Grace Period for Kenyans
The Embassy urged Kenyans living in the UAE to take immediate action to ensure they remain compliant with immigration regulations within the provided window.
“The Embassy therefore encourages all eligible Kenyans to take advantage of this opportunity to regularize their immigration status and remain in the UAE lawfully, or to make the necessary arrangements to depart the country before the deadline without attracting overstay fines,” the advisory read.
Affected Kenyans have been advised to promptly check their visa status and complete any required procedures, including visa renewal, status change, or travel arrangements, well before the deadline.
The Embassy further cautioned that delays could expose travelers to penalties once the grace period expires.
Gulf Flight Hubs Affected as Regional Conflicts Disrupt Air Traffic
The measure comes at a time when several international flight paths across the Middle East have experienced intermittent disruptions and rerouting pressures following heightened geopolitical tensions in the region.
These include the escalation of the Israel–Iran conflict and the involvement of the United States in broader regional security developments.
These developments have had a knock-on effect on aviation corridors, causing delays, cancellations, and logistical challenges for travelers transiting through Gulf hubs.
In March this year, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) exempted certain individuals from overstay penalties.
The directive applied to those affected by airspace closures and flight suspensions starting from February 28, 2026.
The exemption covered visa holders, individuals with departure permits, and residents whose visas had been canceled but who were unable to travel.
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The measure was introduced to shield affected individuals from financial burdens arising from circumstances beyond their control.
ICP noted that its earlier decision to waive overstay fines reflected the UAE’s humanitarian approach and commitment to supporting travelers and visitors during emergencies and exceptional circumstances.
The authority said the visa grace period aims to reinforce compliance with UAE laws and regulations while giving affected individuals an opportunity to correct their status and continue living and working in the country legally, following the restoration of stability in the region.
