Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: With airspace severely constrained, Gulf countries like the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar are helping travellers by extending visas and waiving fines.
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security said tourists and some residents who cannot leave the country due to flight cancellations or delays will not be fined. This applies from February 28, 2026, to visitors on tourist or visit visas, to people with exit permits, and to residents who had cancelled their residency in preparation to leave.
Kuwait announced that all visit and entry visas will be automatically extended by one month, starting on February 28. Residents outside the country who have overstayed will receive an automatic three-month absence permit.
Authorities said all fines and fees are waived, and longer extensions may be considered depending on the situation.
Qatar also said all visas, regardless of type, expiring or expired will automatically get a one-month extension starting February 28. No applications are needed as everything is done electronically. Officials also clarified that fees are waived. However, if someone has prior visa violations, the fines must be cleared first.
According to Khaleej Times report, authorities said specialised teams have been deployed at airports and Customer Happiness Centres to assist passengers whose travel plans were disrupted. These teams are operating under emergency and business continuity plans in coordination with relevant authorities. Travellers have been advised to follow updates through official government channels and remain in contact with airlines for the latest flight information.
The disruption comes after several countries in the region closed their airspace following missile and drone attacks linked to escalating tensions involving Iran. These developments triggered widespread airline suspensions, cancelled flights and long queues at airports as thousands of travellers were left stranded across the region. With one of the world’s busiest aviation corridors disrupted, long-haul passengers, tourists and UAE residents remained in the country well b
