Relief for Zimbabweans stranded in UAE

The Government has announced that Zimbabwean nationals stranded in the United Arab Emirates following recent airspace closures and flight suspensions will not be required to pay overstay fines.

In an advisory issued by the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi, authorities said the exemption from penalties took effect on February 28 after confirmation from UAE authorities.

The waiver applies to Zimbabweans whose visas or departure timelines expired after flights were disrupted, leaving many unable to leave the Gulf state within the required period.

According to the embassy, the categories benefiting from the exemption include holders of departure permits—commonly known as out passes—who exceeded the prescribed timeframe for leaving the country.

The exemption also covers individuals whose residence permits had been cancelled but were unable to depart on time due to 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 February 28, 2026, as confirmed by UAE authorities," the advisory said.

Authorities urged Zimbabwean nationals in the Gulf country to continue following safety guidelines and official advisories issued by local authorities.

The embassy also confirmed that both the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate of Zimbabwe in Dubai remain fully operational and continue to provide consular services.

Thousands of Zimbabweans live and work in the UAE, particularly in cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making the Gulf nation one of the largest destinations for Zimbabwean migrants in the Middle East.