20-07-2025
UAE: Can deportees come back? Here's how to apply to return
Question: In 2022, my friend was extradited from the UAE following a financial dispute that escalated into a physical altercation. He is now considering returning to the UAE for a job opportunity. Could you please advise whether he is legally permitted to re-enter the UAE, and what legal or administrative requirements he must fulfill before doing so?
Answer: Pursuant to your query, it is assumed that your friend is permanently deported from the UAE.
An individual who has been deported may not re-enter the country without obtaining prior approval from the office of the President of the UAE under Article 18 (1) of Federal Decree Law No. 29 of 2021 Concerning the Entry and Residence of Foreigners, which states that,
'The Alien who has previously been deported may not return to the State without the permission of the President.'
Your friend may not return to the UAE following his extradition, as re-entry is subject to approval.
To seek re-entry, he may submit a formal application to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) or the Ministry of Interior, along with all relevant documents such as his passport and UAE Identity number (issued when he was residing in the UAE), extradition or deportation order, a detailed explanation of the purpose for return (e.g., employment), and a valid job offer from a UAE-based employer.
The application may then be reviewed by the competent authorities, who will issue a decision at their sole discretion. Your friend may engage a qualified legal consultant in the UAE to assist with this process and ensure compliance with all procedural requirements.
