UAE tourists and nomads risk 50 dirham daily fines for visa overstays

The UAE now charges a uniform AED 50 per day for visa overstays after any grace period ends. The rule is enforced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security and it applies across visa types with different grace periods depending on the permit.

Prepaid tourist and visit visas often have no grace period, so fines can start on day 1 after expiry. Visa-on-arrival stays and some short visit permits usually get 10 days, while cancelled residence visas can have 30 to 180 days before fines begin.

Who feels it most

Tourists and digital nomads are the most exposed because many are on visit or tourist visas with tighter timelines. A traveler who misses the expiry date can rack up costs fast, then face extra admin charges on top of the daily fine.

Residents are affected too, especially after visa cancellation. Skilled workers, investors and Golden or Green visa holders may have longer windows, but they still need to track the end date closely.

What nomads should do next

Check your status on the ICP app or website before you leave the country. If you’ve overstayed, pay the fine through the ICP or GDRFA portals before departure and expect AED 50 per day plus about AED 200 to AED 500 in admin or exit fees.

The current rules took effect in February 2026 and are in force now. For ongoing updates, see our visa updates page and read our full UAE guide for the complete picture.