In a detailed advisory posted on 5 March, the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi urged the 3.6 million-strong Indian community in the United Arab Emirates to “remain vigilant, stay calm and strictly adhere to UAE guidelines” as flight operations gradually resume. The embassy confirmed that UAE authorities have temporarily waived overstay penalties for visas that expired after 28 February—a crucial lifeline for tourists and short-term assignees who could not leave because of airspace closures. The notice lists a toll-free hotline (800-46342), a dedicated WhatsApp number and two email addresses for consular assistance. Outsourced passport, visa and attestation centres in Abu Dhabi and Dubai continue to function normally, and limited non-scheduled flights operated by Indian and UAE carriers are available for stranded passengers subject to slot approvals. For mobility managers the fine waiver removes the immediate risk of AED 50-per-day penalties that would otherwise accrue, but companies should still document airline cancellation evidence to secure the exemption. HR teams with Gulf commuters on short-cycle assignments should update payroll and GOSI-registration timelines to reflect new exit dates. The embassy also advised Indians transiting via Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone to factor in stricter security checks and potential cargo delays. Exporters shipping critical components to India’s automotive cluster in Pune reported hold-ups of up to 72 hours at Jebel Ali as authorities red-flagged consignments labelled “dual-use”. Given the fluid situation, the embassy will publish real-time updates on X and its website. Corporates should embed the hotline numbers in traveller tracking tools and instruct employees to carry printed copies of visa extensions to avoid issues at exit immigration counters.
Source: Mid-Day (World News)
