Zimbabwean nationals stranded in the United Arab Emirates due to recent flight disruptions will not be required to pay overstay fines, according to a new advisory issued by the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi.
The embassy confirmed that UAE authorities had approved a waiver for penalties that would normally apply to individuals who remained in the country after their legal stay had expired. The exemption took effect on 28 February 2026 and applies to foreign nationals whose departure plans were disrupted by the closure of airspace and the suspension of flights.
“The Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe advises Zimbabwean nationals in the UAE that were affected by the closure of the airspace and suspension of flights that they will be exempted from paying overstay fines effective on 28 February 2026, as confirmed by UAE authorities,” the embassy said.
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The exemption will benefit several groups of Zimbabweans whose travel arrangements were affected by the disruptions. These include holders of departure permits, commonly referred to as out passes, who exceeded the period given for leaving the country, as well as individuals whose residence permits had been cancelled but were unable to depart after flights were halted.
The measure also applies to Zimbabweans visiting the UAE on tourist or visit visas whose authorised stay expired while flights were suspended.
The Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe urged Zimbabwean citizens in the country to remain attentive to guidance issued by local authorities and to follow all official safety advisories.
“The Embassy advises Zimbabwean nationals to continue following official safety guidelines and advisories being issued from time to time by the authorities,” the embassy said.
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