The 2026 rule change in one paragraph
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) unified overstay fines at AED 50 per day across all visa categories, effective 11 February 2026. The roughly 10-day grace period that used to soften late exits was eliminated — the meter now starts the day after expiry.
What to do if you've already overstayed
The fine is settled when you renew, change status, or exit — through ICP smart services, GDRFA for Dubai visas, or at the border. The number only grows daily, so the cheapest day to fix it is today. Status-change inside the country is often possible; check your eligibility before booking a flight.
Next time, don't find out at the airport
The whole problem is remembering a date. Save your visa or residency expiry with a free reminder and get an email before the deadline, plus warnings 7 days and 1 day out — in English and Arabic.