Travel Ban in the UAE: 7 Common Reasons Explained

7 Common Reasons for Travel Ban in the UAE: Know the Restrictions:

Travel ban can be imposed in the UAE for administrative or legal reasons, either by executive bodies like the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) or by court orders. Here are the various instances that may lead to a travel ban:

1. Visa Overstay
2. Absconding Case
3. Defaulting on a Bank Loan
4. Late Rent Payment
5. Criminal Cases
6. Civil or Commercial Cases
7. Acting as a Guarantor

1.Visa Overstay

When someone overstays their visa in the UAE, they are in violation of the country’s immigration laws. As a consequence, they might face deportation, and after leaving the country, a travel ban may be imposed to prevent them from re-entering.

2. Absconding Case:

An absconding case is filed by employers against employees who have abandoned their jobs without notice or have not reported to work for a certain period. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) takes such cases seriously, and if a ban is placed, it can only be lifted by the employer (sponsor) or by proving the case invalid to the relevant authorities.

3. Defaulting on a Bank Loan:

If someone defaults on their bank loan or credit card payment, the bank may take legal action to recover the dues. This action may involve presenting a security cheque issued by the individual. If the cheque bounces or the bank seeks full payment through a court order, an immediate travel ban can be imposed.

4. Late Rent Payment:

Failure to respond to the landlord’s rent payment notice or not meeting tenant obligations can lead to a travel ban. The Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) intervenes in such cases to enforce rental agreements and ensure landlords’ rights are protected.

5. Criminal Cases:

For ongoing criminal investigations or court cases, an administrative authority may issue a circular to prevent the accused person from leaving the country until the case is resolved and the verdict is implemented. In severe criminal cases, like drug use or assault, leading to deportation, a travel ban may prevent re-entry to the UAE after deportation.

6. Civil or Commercial Cases:

In civil or commercial cases involving non-payment of dues by a company or family court guardianship disputes, a travel ban can be imposed as a precautionary measure until the legal proceedings are concluded.

7. Acting as a Guarantor:

If an individual stands as a guarantor for someone involved in a police or court case, they may face a travel ban during the period they serve as the guarantor. The ban is to ensure that the guarantor remains available to answer for the individual they have guaranteed.

Overall, travel bans are taken seriously in the UAE and are intended to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. If someone finds themselves facing a travel ban, it is essential to address the underlying issue and take appropriate legal steps to have the ban lifted or resolved.

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How to check if you have a travel ban in UAE?

To determine if you have a travel ban in the UAE, specifically in Dubai, you can make use of the free online service provided by Dubai Police. This service is designed for UAE residents and allows them to check for any travel bans related to financial cases in Dubai. To access this service, you will need to provide your Emirates ID card number. You can visit the official Dubai Police website or download their app from iTunes or Google Play to avail of this service. For any further inquiries, you can contact Dubai Police at 901.

You can also visit the Dubai Police Station in person to check your UAE immigration status. 

Similarly, if you reside in Abu Dhabi, you can utilize the ‘Estafser‘ online service offered by the Judicial Department. This service enables Abu Dhabi residents to check if there are any claims against them made by the Public Prosecution. To use the ‘Estafser’ service, you will need to enter your unified number.

Before making any travel plans, it is advisable to check for any potential issues that could lead to complications at airport immigration counters. If you find any problems, seeking the assistance of a lawyer or contacting the nearest immigration/police office in your area for advice is recommended. This way, you can resolve any outstanding matters and ensure a smoother travel experience.

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How to request for cancellation of travel ban with UAE Ministry of Justice?

To request the cancellation of a travel ban placed due to a court case with the UAE Ministry of Justice, follow these steps:

Step 1: Submit the Request

1. Visit the Ministry of Justice website at moj.gov.ae and navigate to the ‘Cancellation Request of Travel Ban Order’ service.
2. Click on ‘Start service.’
3. Sign in using your UAE Pass account.
4. You’ll be directed to your personal dashboard.
5. Under ‘Case Management,’ click on ‘My cases’ to view a list of cases related to you.
6. Click on the eye icon to view the details of the relevant case.
7. From the available options, select ‘request.’
8. Fill in the required form, providing details about the request and the case. Note that the available options under ‘request name’ may vary based on the case type, and some requests may require payment. Once submitted and paid for, the request will be routed for approval, and certain requests may also need approval from the court judge.
9. Upload any necessary related documents.
10. Click on ‘Submit.’

Step 2: Make Payment After submitting the request, you may be required to make payments, if applicable to your case. Follow these steps to check and pay the required amount:

1. Click on the dashboard and enter your application’s reference number.
2. Look for a checkbox on the right-hand corner of the screen and click on it.
3. A page will display the payment details. Click on ‘Continue.’
4. Provide your card details to complete the payment.

Step 3: View or Print the Request To view or print the request for your records:

1. On your personal dashboard, access ‘Case Management – My Cases.’
2. Click on the eye icon to open the case files.
3. Go to the documents section and click on the file link to download the PDF for printing.

The Ministry of Justice’s website states that the application will be processed within five working days. If approved, the travel ban will be canceled. You can track the progress of your request online through your case dashboard.

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Frequently Asked Questions FAQs on Travel Ban in UAE: