As the UAE visa deadline approaches, Al Awir Centre sees unprecedented numbers seeking last-minute amnesty
Dubai’s Al Awir Centre is experiencing a major surge in visa amnesty seekers, with the UAE’s visa amnesty deadline of October 31 looming. In response, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has doubled its immigration staff to accommodate the influx of individuals seeking amnesty options. The final week of the initiative has seen thousands attempting to secure exit permits, eager to avoid overstaying penalties.
Lt Col Salem bin Ali, head of the GDRFA’s customer happiness department, explained that the last-minute rush is a recurring pattern during amnesty periods. “It is normal and we’ve seen this in former amnesties,” he noted, confirming that the increased immigration staff aims to streamline the process for those hoping to secure amnesty before the deadline. According to GDRFA, there will be no extension to the amnesty period, underscoring the urgency for overstayers to act promptly.
Despite concerns, individuals granted an exit pass by October 31 will have a 14-day grace period to leave the UAE without facing penalties. Lt Col bin Ali reassured overstayers that securing an exit pass does not hinder future reentry to the UAE, provided they meet standard visa requirements. Al Awir Centre has set extended hours, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., to facilitate the influx of applicants.
Many amnesty seekers, like Nigerian national Innocent Chibuzo, are taking advantage of this final opportunity. Chibuzo, who accrued overstay fines since 2020, booked a flight for October 31 after securing an exit pass, intending to return under a valid employment visa.
For those still without an Emirates ID, Amer centers across Dubai are handling exit pass applications, while those with ID can go directly to the Al Awir Centre. With only a few days left, the GDRFA encourages all overstayers to finalize their arrangements promptly to avoid fines.
