Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai (SHP)
Dubai, May 19: In an announcement made onlate Monday night, the UAE has laid down certain procedures for those keen on returning to the country from June 1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation and Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship declared that those wishing to return to the UAE must have a valid visa and family in the country. The residents were also instructed to register in the service titled Residents’ Entry Permit on the website smartservices.ica.gov.ae.
The officials maintained that the decision would 'reunite families affected by the measures taken in light of the current exceptional circumstances’.
"The move is aimed at streamlining their safe return to the UAE", the statement said.
In the light of the pandemic, international flights were suspended, and the country's borders were closed on March 19. The expatriates who were stuck overseas were then told apply for permission to return on the Twajudi assistance portal, a system which previously was exclusive to only UAE citizens.
Residents with valid residency visas outside the country who faced issues in following up on their requests to return were directed to check the authority's website or reach out on +971600522222, +97123128867 or +97123128865.
Meanwhile, some residents managed to return under special circumstances, there were several others who were notified that their applications were rejected. The applicants whose requests were rejected received messages that said, 'in light of the current conditions and for your safety: we apologise for not fulfilling your request due, to the incompatibility of your request with the requirements for entry to the country.'
Those who have had their application prioritised involved, essential workers including medical staff and teachers, and pregnant women and children. Earlier in April, UAE authorities said all residency visas would remain valid until the end of the year
Brig Khamis Al Kaabi, of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, confirmed the decision, saying it applied to those caught outside the country when flights were suspended.
"Expats who have their visa expiring after March 1, 2020, will have them valid until the end of December this year, whether they are inside or outside the country," Brig Al Kaabi said.