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How to Check UAE Travel Ban Due to Credit Card Debt

What happens if a client fails to pay their credit card debt? Can they still travel if there are ongoing legal proceedings against them?

Failing to settle credit card debt in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can lead to severe legal consequences, potentially resulting in a travel ban. This situation can be particularly alarming for those urgently wishing to leave the country but are uncertain if there are any ongoing cases against them. This article details how to check for travel bans and outlines necessary steps to minimize legal repercussions.

When is a credit card debt considered unpaid?

According to Article 4 of the Personal Loan Agreement approved by the Central Bank of UAE, a debt is considered unpaid if the customer fails to make monthly payments for three consecutive months or six non-consecutive months. This implies that the credit institution is entitled to:

Make all outstanding installments, interests, and other charges immediately payable.

Initiate claim enforcement without notice or a court order.

How is a travel ban issued?

Credit institutions are entitled to initiate legal proceedings against a client if their debt exceeds 10,000 dirhams. The following measures may be taken:

1. Court Petition: The creditor can file a petition with the court, providing evidence of the debt.

2. Travel Ban: The court may order a travel ban, preventing the debtor from leaving the country until the debt is settled.

3. Financial Guarantee: The court may require the creditor to provide a guarantee to cover possible damages if the ban later proves unwarranted.

When can the travel ban be lifted?

The ban can be lifted through several avenues under UAE law:

Payment of the Debt: If the client fully pays off the debt, the ban is lifted.

Creditor's Consent: If the creditor consents in writing to lift the ban.

Providing a Bank Guarantee: The client can lodge a bank guarantee or financial surety with the court.

Legal Proceedings Cease: If the creditor does not file a lawsuit within 8 days, or execution is not commenced within 30 days, the ban is automatically lifted.

Three Years of Inactivity: If no enforcement steps are taken for three years, the ban is lifted.

Illegal stay in the country: If the individual is staying illegally in the UAE and is expelled, the ban can also be lifted.

How to check a travel ban?

If someone is uncertain about their ongoing legal status, the following options are available:

1. Dubai Police Smart App: This app allows individuals to check online for any travel bans issued against them.

2. Visit a Local Police Station: One can inquire in person at a local police station.

3. Dubai Courts online platform: Through the Dubai Courts website, individuals can check for any ongoing legal cases.

4. Hiring a Lawyer: If in doubt, one can hire a lawyer to obtain the necessary information.

What happens if someone tries to leave the country with a travel ban?

At UAE airports, border control systems immediately trigger an alert if someone under a travel ban attempts to leave the country. In such cases, the traveler will be detained, and the relevant authorities will take further actions. To avoid such situations, it is always advisable to check one's legal status in advance.

Summary

UAE regulations strictly control the handling of credit card debts, potentially imposing travel bans on debtors. The best way to avoid such situations is to pay on time and keep track of financial obligations. If uncertain about one's legal status, checking via online platforms and police information points can provide quick and easy confirmation of any travel bans.

(Source: Announcement from UAE Central Bank.)