The grace period applies from August 1 to October 31, 2018.
Just last week the United Arab Emirates cabinet announced sweeping changes to the country’s visa system, and now further updates are in the pipeline.
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has approved one-year residency visas for people from countries affected by war and natural disasters.
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The permits will be extendable, state-owned news agency WAM says, and won’t be limited by someone’s current residency status. Those who take them up will also be exempt from any fines.
The visas will offer “solidarity with the people of affected nations and to offer them a chance to improve their living conditions until they are ready to return to their home countries,” the report continues.
The amnesty period will run from 1st August to 31st October 2018, WAM said.
“It is also a part of the country’s principles and responsibility to support the most vulnerable people of the world as an active supporter of international peace and stability, especially in the Arab and the GCC region,” the agency said.
The changes come after the announcement of 10-year visas for doctors, engineers and specialists in medical, technical and research fields, as well as five-year visas for outstanding students.
In addition, six-month job seekers’ visas have been announced, along with changes that will allow expats to reset their visa status without having to leave and re-enter the country.
Images: Getty, Dubai Media Office
