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UAE suspends all visas: What we know so far

Dubai - A Q&A on all the questions you may have about the move.

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Effective March 17, the UAE has suspended all visas to all foreigners, state news agency Wam reported on Sunday. Here is all we know about the move so far.

Are all visas suspended? Are there any exceptions?
Yes, issuance of all visas has been suspended. The only exception is for diplomatic passport holders.

Why has the UAE done this and why now?
The move is part of the country's precautionary measures against Covid-19. The suspension was announced on Sunday just days after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared Covid-19 as a pandemic. The Federal Authority for Identity And Citizenship (FAIC) said the WHO declaration "reflects the high risks now associated with travel under the current circumstances".

What happens to visas issued before March 17?
All visas issued before March 17 remain valid.

Till when will the visa suspension be in effect?
A specific date has not been announced so far. According to the FAIC, the "decision will be valid until a mechanism for medical examination has been established in the countries of departure as part of other global measures taken for the common good of all nations".

Khaleej Times has reached out to the Federal Authority for Identity And Citizenship for more information. This Q&A will be updated as we get more details.