The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially confirmed the closure of all immigration offices nationwide from Tuesday, June 4 to Saturday, June 8, in observance of Eid Al Adha.
The suspension affects a wide range of services including visa processing, residency permits, immigration queries, and fine payments.
According to a government advisory issued on Sunday, Offices will resume normal operations on Sunday, June 9, although applicants should anticipate longer processing times due to expected backlogs.
Services Affected?
During the five-day holiday period, all government immigration branches across emirates—Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain—will pause operations.
Temporarily Unavailable Services (June 4–8):
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Visa Processing
All new applications, extensions, change of status, and renewals will be on hold. Applications submitted just before the holiday may experience delays. -
Residency Permits
Services for issuing, renewing, or canceling Emirates ID-linked residency permits will be suspended. -
Overstay Fine Payments & Violations
Systems for resolving immigration fines, visa corrections, and compliance checks will be temporarily disabled. -
Customer Support & Helplines
Government hotlines and immigration service centers will either operate with limited capacity or remain closed entirely during the break. -
Entry/Exit Stamping & Special Cases
While normal travel is permitted for those with valid documents, individuals with pending immigration approvals or unique entry circumstances may experience delays at border checkpoints.
Travelers and Residents: What You Need to Know
The holiday closure impacts both residents and international visitors, particularly those managing visa transitions or planning travel during the Eid period.
Important Tips Before June 4:
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Act Early:
Submit your visa or residency applications before the holiday window to avoid last-minute issues. -
Avoid Critical Travel Windows:
If your upcoming travel relies on pending approvals or renewals, consider adjusting your plans or securing temporary travel arrangements. -
Check Document Validity:
Confirm that your visa, residency permit, or re-entry clearance is valid. Keep both digital and printed copies of these documents when traveling. -
Stay Updated:
Follow official UAE immigration platforms or government portals for announcements in case of policy adjustments or service resumption updates.
Eid Al Adha and Public Sector Adjustments
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar.
As a public holiday, it often brings multi-day closures across federal and emirate-level departments.
While immigration services will be suspended, airports, land borders, and seaports will continue to operate for passengers with valid visas or visa-on-arrival eligibility.
However, staffing will be reduced, and processing times may be longer, especially for travelers requiring manual checks or additional documentation.
Plan Ahead, Avoid Disruptions
With the UAE’s immigration offices closed for five consecutive days, proactive planning is essential for residents, tourists, and businesses alike.
Delays in documentation can lead to travel disruptions, fines, or compliance issues, especially for those working or relocating during the Eid period.
To avoid unnecessary complications, ensure your immigration affairs are settled before June 4, and monitor trusted sources for any updates from UAE authorities.