UAE: More visa extension requests from Jordanian, Lebanese tourists amid regional strife

Khaleej Times

3 hours ago

Travel agents in the UAE are seeing a rise in inquiries from visitors, especially from Jordan, Lebanon, and other Middle Eastern countries, who are looking to extend their stay due to the current tensions in the region.
Many of these tourists came to the UAE for a short visit but now wish to remain longer, either due to flight cancellations or safety concerns about returning home.
Bharath Aidasani, managing partner at Pluto Travels, said several visitors from countries affected by the regional tensions are choosing to stay back in the UAE for now.
'Flights to some of these countries are being cancelled or delayed,' he said. 'We are getting many calls from visitors who are worried about returning and want to extend their visas or exit and re-enter legally.'
He added that the UAE continues to be seen as a safe place in the region, and many people feel more secure staying here until the situation improves.
Aidasani said that his agency is receiving daily inquiries about visa renewals and extensions. 'Some visitors are scrambling to find a solution. They are either trying to extend their visas or making plans to exit and re-enter the UAE on a fresh visa.'
Some residents cancel summer travel
Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager at Wisefox Tourism, said it's not just tourists who are changing their plans, even UAE residents and expats originally from countries like Jordan, Lebanon, and Iran are postponing or cancelling their summer vacations.
'People who had planned to travel for the summer are now staying back,' he said. 'They are concerned about the ongoing conflict and airspace closures. Many don't want to take the risk of traveling right now.'
Flights affected by tensions
In recent weeks, several flights to and from countries like Lebanon, Jordan, and Iran have been cancelled or rescheduled. The reason: airspace closures linked to tensions in the region, especially between Iran and Israel.
This has also impacted travelers flying through the region, with some connecting flights being missed due to longer routes and delays.
Advice for visitors
Travel experts are advising visitors not to wait until the last minute.
'If you're on a visit visa and unsure of your travel plans, it's better to extend it in advance,' said Subair. 'Delaying could mean paying fines or even overstaying by accident. Act early and speak to your travel agent or apply through official channels.'