DUBAI, UAE – In a crucial announcement for residents, visitors, and businesses across the United Arab Emirates, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has confirmed a scheduled closure of all immigration services for the upcoming 54th UAE National Day celebrations.
The immigration departments will remain officially closed for five days, starting from Friday, November 28, 2025, until Tuesday, December 2, 2025. Normal operations are expected to resume on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
Also Read: DU and Etisalat Free Internet – National Day Offer
This extended break is a standard procedure to allow the nation to celebrate its unity and progress. However, for anyone dealing with visa expiry dates or pending applications, this period requires immediate attention and proactive planning.
Key Deadlines You Cannot Afford to Miss
The closure directly impacts two critical groups: those applying for new visit visas and those seeking to extend existing ones.
According to the advisory, a strict deadline has been set for all such transactions. All new visit visa applications and extension requests, whose final submission dates fall within the holiday period, must be submitted no later than 2:00 PM on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
This cut-off time is absolute. Authorities have explicitly stated that no extensions will be processed after 2:00 PM on the 27th until the immigration systems come back online after the holidays.
A Critical Warning: Overstay Fines and “Absconding” Risks
The advisory carries a strong warning for those who might ignore this deadline. Attempting to submit an application during the official holidays is highly discouraged.
- Applications sent during the closure will not be processed and will simply sit in the system until offices reopen on December 3rd.
- This delay can have severe consequences. If your visa expires during the holiday period and your extension application is submitted late or does not get posted in time, you will automatically begin to accrue overstay fines from the day your visa expires.
Furthermore, the notice highlights the risk of “absconding” issues. An ‘absconding’ or ‘fugitive’ report is a serious legal status in the UAE that can ban an individual from re-entering the country. While typically associated with employment visas, any violation of immigration status that goes unaddressed can lead to complicated legal situations, especially if a person’s visa expires without a formal extension in place.
What Should You Do Now? A Simple Guide
To ensure a hassle-free holiday and avoid any legal or financial penalties, follow these steps:
- Check Your Visa Expiry Date Immediately: Don’t assume. Locate your passport and check the expiry date of your current residence or visit visa.
- Act Before the Deadline: If your visa expires on or between November 28 and December 2, 2025, you must initiate your extension process well in advance of the November 27th, 2:00 PM deadline. Do not wait until the last day.
- Consult Your PRO or Typing Center: If you use a company PRO or a visa processing agent, contact them now to inform them of your situation and ensure they can file your application before the cut-off.
- For New Visit Visa Applications: If you are sponsoring family, friends, or clients for a visit during this period, plan their entry and application timelines carefully to ensure their visas are issued before the holiday closure.
A Reminder to Plan Ahead
The UAE National Day is a time of national pride and joyous celebration. By taking these simple, proactive steps, residents and visitors can ensure they too can enjoy the festivities without the stress of potential immigration issues. Planning ahead is the key to a smooth and compliant stay in the UAE.
For official updates, always refer to the ICP smart services platform or their official communication channels.
