First Days of UAE Visa Amnesty spells Joy for Numerous Overstayers, Illegal Residents
New policy offers tremendous relief to all concerned.
As the summer draws to a close in the UAE, those with irregular residential status in the country don’t have to “take the heat” anymore. Several centres across the Gulf country turned into bastions of hope and promise for the droves of labourers and others who have overstayed their visa expiry dates. With this move, it is clear that the government is keen on dispensing crucial assistance to all in need and adding a new and generous chapter to its Law Book.
The noble and fair initiative which was announced recently and which was set in motion as of Sunday, September 1st, 2024, will enable expats to secure their jobs and travel out of national borders without suffering penalties – financial or otherwise. Furthermore, there won’t be any more ambiguity or confusion regarding the applicants’ UAE residency. Furthermore, many workers of other nationalities will now be less prone to exploitation in the country.
About 1,000 persons honed in on the various set-up tents to avail of the amnesty on Day 1 alone, confirmed Director General of the Genera Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) – Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri. Gen. Marri added that the large turn-out stood as a glowing testimony to the efficacy of the drive and the faith that the beneficiaries have in it.
Mr. Marri also lauded the preparation, effort and dedication of all persons and agencies involved in providing the service in such a smooth and efficient manner. These parties include social workers, government officials, job recruiters and authorities from the agencies and firms they represent. Also, in a gesture of goodwill, several groups showed up to provide food and drinks to all in attendance.
So positive was the reception on Day 1 of this unique initiative that officers greeted about three times the number of visitors on Monday, September 2nd. And it appears the sluice gates have only just opened. How’s that for a big Welcome Sign, especially for those labourers who help build and maintain their adopted country. Now other GCC nations will do well to follow suit.
