UAE Cracks Down on Visa Violators in 2025

More Than 32,000 Visa Violations Registered in UAE First Half of 2025

The United Arab Emirates continues to place significant emphasis on enforcing immigration regulations: more than 32,000 visa violators were identified nationwide in the first half of 2025, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). The institution aims to strengthen law compliance and ensure dignified living conditions for residents and visitors.

Increased Inspections Across the Country

Targeted inspection campaigns conducted in the first six months of the year focused on detecting illegal stays, expired visas, and unauthorized employment. Some of the individuals apprehended during these inspections were detained and directed to the relevant authorities for application of appropriate laws.

Most Common Types of Violations

The visa violations recorded by authorities fall into several categories, such as:

expired tourist or visitor visas

working without an employment permit

staying without a visa

using forged documents

Such infractions not only lead to legal consequences – like fines, deportation, or travel bans – but also tarnish the perception of the country’s stability and legal order.

Why Law Compliance Matters?

The UAE makes significant efforts to ensure a safe and orderly society for all its residents. Strict monitoring of the visa system helps prevent labor market abuses, supports social integration, and shields the country from the consequences of irregular immigration.

Legal Alternatives and Advice

Authorities advise visitors and workers to:

always check the expiry date of their visas,

use online services for visa renewal or status adjustments,

and avoid job opportunities that do not offer official visas or permits.

Legal residence ensures access to labor rights, healthcare, and other essential services.

Summary

The more than 32,000 cases of visa violations highlight that the UAE continues to act decisively against illegal stay. The inspection campaigns are aimed not at punishment, but at strengthening compliance and ensuring an environment where everyone can live and work safely and legally. The authorities' message is clear: living and working in accordance with the rules ensures a long-term enjoyment of life quality in the country.

(Source: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) statement.)