Sunday, June 1, 2025
The UAE is set to pause all visa and immigration services for five days from June 4 to June 8, 2025, in observance of the Eid Al Adha holiday. This decision is expected to result in significant travel chaos and processing delays, impacting residents, tourists, and international visitors. Consequently, travelers and visa holders are strongly encouraged to finalize all necessary immigration procedures well in advance to avoid penalties, overstays, and complications during this busy holiday period.
As the UAE gears up for the important religious festival of Eid Al Adha, all immigration departments across the nation will temporarily halt operations between June 4th and June 8th. With just five days of closure, a wide range of immigration-related services will be affected. It’s essential for residents, tourists, and international travelers to plan accordingly to prevent complications relating to visa processing, residency permits, and other travel formalities.
Understanding the Eid Al Adha Closure: What’s Happening?
To mark Eid Al Adha, a significant holiday celebrated by millions across the UAE, the government has announced a total suspension of immigration services during this timeframe. This means that no new visa applications, renewals, status changes, or fine payments regarding immigration issues will be processed. While routine border controls will continue to facilitate lawful entry and exit, support services related to immigration will be severely limited or unavailable.
Key Immigration Services Impacted by the Closure
- Visa Application and Processing Delays
Individuals looking to submit visa requests—whether for new entry, extensions, or status changes—need to note that no processing will occur during this period. Applications filed just before the closure may face extended wait times as they will be queued until the departments reopen on June 9th. This backlog could lead to processing delays extending well beyond the holiday period.
- Suspension of Residency Permit Services
All residency-related services, including issuing new permits, renewals, cancellations, and adjustments, will be put on hold during the closure. Residents counting on timely permit renewals should plan diligently to avoid overstays or potential fines.
- Border Control and Entry/Exit Procedures
While immigration checkpoints at airports and land borders will remain operational for routine arrivals and departures, complex cases requiring additional review or special intervention may experience delays due to limited staffing. Travelers are advised to make sure all their documentation is in order to ensure smooth passage.
- Customer Support and Enquiries
Immigration helplines, online support, and service centers will either have minimal staffing or be completely closed. This reduced availability may create challenges for individuals seeking immediate assistance, clarifications, or status updates during the holiday period.
- Fine Payments and Rectifications
Services related to settling immigration fines, including those incurred from visa overstays or violations, will be suspended. Individuals should take care to settle any outstanding fines before the closure to avoid complications.
What This Means for Residents, Visitors, and Travelers
- Expect Extended Processing Times: Due to the closure and subsequent backlog, visa and permit processing will slow down significantly during this period.
- Travel Planning is Crucial: Those with upcoming travel plans involving visa issuance or status changes should ensure all paperwork is completed before June 4th to avoid last-minute issues.
- Potential Delays at Ports of Entry: Although border operations will continue, reduced support staff may result in minor delays, especially with complex immigration matters.
- Post-Holiday Backlog: The surge of applications and inquiries following the reopening may exacerbate delays. Early submission of documents is highly recommended.
Proactive Steps to Take Before the Eid Holiday
To prevent disruptions, the UAE government and immigration authorities suggest the following actions:
- Complete Visa Extensions and Changes Early
Individuals needing visa or residency permit extensions or modifications should initiate these processes immediately. Avoid waiting until the last minute to submit applications, as requests pending during the closure will not be processed, which could lead to overstaying fines.
- Adjust Travel Dates if Possible
If travel to or from the UAE is planned around early June, consider rescheduling to avoid the closure period. Arriving during the shutdown without valid and confirmed visa status may complicate entry.
- Verify Visa Validity Before Traveling
Ensure that visas or entry permits are fully approved and valid well before departure. Last-minute approvals or processing should not be relied upon.
- Carry Complete Documentation
Always have essential travel and immigration documents readily accessible while traveling, including printed copies. This can aid in resolving unforeseen issues at immigration checkpoints.
- Monitor Official Communications
Stay informed by checking announcements from official UAE government websites and immigration portals regularly. Any changes or extensions to the closure period will be communicated through these channels.
Handling Emergencies During the Closure
In rare emergency situations requiring urgent immigration assistance during these five days, travelers should contact their respective embassies or consulates in the UAE. However, be aware that embassies have limited capacity to intervene in immigration processes. Local emergency services will remain operational but cannot substitute for immigration authorities.
Anticipate Delays Even After Services Resume
Post-reopening on June 9th, a significant inflow of applications and requests is to be expected. This influx may extend processing times for several weeks. Patience and timely submission of applications after the reopening will help reduce delays.
Final Advice for a Smooth Eid Al Adha Season
The planned suspension of UAE immigration services during the Eid Al Adha holidays is a recognized observance that necessitates careful planning by residents and visitors. Completing all visa, residency, and fine-related formalities well in advance of June 4th is highly advisable. Travelers should ensure that their documentation is current and avoid relying on last-minute immigration processes. With adequate preparation, enjoying the holiday season in the UAE can be a stress-free experience.
The UAE’s visa service freeze during Eid Al Adha poses significant challenges, making early action imperative to avoid delays and complications. If you have pending immigration tasks, take action now to navigate the Eid Al Adha closure effortlessly. Stay informed, plan early, and simplify your travel and residency arrangements during this festive time.
