UAE: Distance Learning Continues at Universities with One Exemption

Gulf News, 31 March 2026: The UAE extends distance learning for universities while allowing limited in‑person attendance for priority programmes.

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research extends remote learning at higher education institutions across the UAE until April 17, following coordination with the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council. The measure applies to public and private universities nationwide, with weekly reviews planned.

Under the updated directive, in‑person classes resume only for priority academic programmes that require physical attendance, such as clinical training, laboratory‑based courses and practical fieldwork, provided approved safety measures are strictly followed. Universities are also permitted to conduct on‑site examinations where necessary.

The ministry urges institutions to maintain academic quality and assessment standards while coordinating closely with local authorities.

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UAE: Expired‑Visa Residents Allowed to Return During Crisis

Gulf News, 24 March 2026: UAE authorities have permitted residents stranded abroad to re‑enter the country even if their residency visas had expired, as part of crisis‑response measures easing immigration procedures.

According to the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, the policy formed part of temporary leniency measures allowing re‑entry without penalties, while also enabling individuals in violation of residency rules to exit the UAE without complications.

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Fujairah: Man Arrested for Filming for Foreign Media Without a Permit

Khaleej Times, 17 March 2026: Authorities in Fujairah have arrested a man who trespassed and filmed in restricted areas without obtaining the necessary permits.

The authorities stated that he had secretly entered the sites before being detected and arrested. During questioning, it was revealed that he worked for a media organisation; but did not have any authorisation permitting him to access the locations or conduct filming there. It was confirmed that the accused violated applicable laws and regulations by filming without obtaining official approvals, in breach of the filming bans which were enforced in those areas. The recorded footage had been sent electronically to a news organisation in London without official authorisation.

UAE laws criminalise entering or being present in restricted areas without a permit, even if no other act takes place. Taking photographs, preparing maps, recording coordinates, or using any other means of documentation in violation of prohibitions issued by the competent authorities is also prohibited.

The UAE Public Prosecution have stressed the importance of adhering to applicable laws and regulations and obtaining prior official permits before undertaking any filming particularly in sensitive or restricted locations.

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UAE: Authorities Confirm Commitment to Economic Openness

Khaleej Times, 19 March 2026: Authorities in Dubai have shared a fact check statement refuting reports claiming the UAE had introduced strict laws to prevent foreign investors from withdrawing their capital and leaving the Emirate.

The false reports had alleged that the measures included freezing bank accounts and imposing restrictions on money transfers and capital movement in order to retain investors. Dubai media office made it clear that the UAE economy was strong, and Dubai would continue to remain a global economic hub and magnet for investors. The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism had denied the reports which circulated on social media on imposing restrictions on the movement of capital or preventing foreign investors from transferring or managing their funds in line with the applicable laws and regulations.

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UAE: Expired residency holders abroad allowed to return without entry permit

Qatar Peninsula, 12 March 2026: The UAE has introduced a temporary measure allowing expatriate residents whose residency visas expired while they were outside the country to return without obtaining a new entry permit.

According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the decision applies to residents who were unable to return due to current regional conditions, including airspace closures and suspended flights. The exemption is valid from 28 February to 31 March 2026.

Eligible residents may re‑enter the UAE during this period without applying for a fresh entry permit, easing travel disruptions caused by the ongoing regional security situation.

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