UAE Eases Visa Rules for Sudanese Expats with Expired Passports

Abu Dhabi: In a compassionate move to support Sudanese nationals impacted by the ongoing crisis in Sudan, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has announced that Sudanese residents in the UAE can now apply for new visas, renew their residency permits, and obtain Emirates ID cards — even if their passports have less than six months’ validity or are expired.

This exceptional measure, effective from May 19, 2025, will continue until the end of the year. It allows Sudanese residents who have overstayed or accumulated fines to regularise their residency status through the Authority’s digital platforms, with all fines waived during this period.

The Authority clarified that the initiative falls within the framework of UAE entry and residency laws and reflects the leadership’s commitment to assisting Sudanese nationals who are unable to renew their passports due to the conflict back home.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, this decision aims to simplify the visa renewal process and offer relief to affected individuals.

This step is part of the UAE’s broader humanitarian policy, which prioritises support for communities in crisis. It highlights the nation’s values of tolerance, solidarity, and compassion, and its commitment to maintaining social and humanitarian stability for all residents.

The Authority reaffirmed that these measures align with the UAE’s global humanitarian principles and the leadership’s vision of mercy and generosity.