UAE Intensifies Crackdown on Working with Visit Visas: Travel Agents Warn

Travel agents in the UAE have issued fresh warnings against working on visit visas, as authorities intensify crackdowns on illegal employment. The enforcement drive follows the conclusion of a visa amnesty programme that allowed overstayers to legalize their status or exit the country without penalties.

Officials have reportedly increased inspections across company premises to ensure compliance with UAE labour laws.

Surge in Inspections and Penalties

🚨 Workplace Inspections:

• Inspection teams have raided multiple businesses suspected of employing individuals on visit visas.

• Authorities have arrested over 6,000 visa violators since January 2025.

💰 Stricter Penalties:

• Companies hiring workers without valid work permits face fines from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million.

• Individuals caught working on a visit visa risk deportation.

Industry Leaders Weigh In

🗣️ Safeer Mohammed, General Manager of Smart Travels:

• "Authorities are ensuring that everyone follows the law. The number of visit visa overstayers has dropped by over 50% since January."

🗣️ Bharat Aidasani, Pluto Travels:

• "Working on a visit visa was always illegal. Now, increased inspections make enforcement more strict."

🗣️ Noushad Hassan, Alhind Travels Business Centre:

• "Many stranded workers contact us for help after their companies abandon them. New regulations are preventing such exploitation."

New Visa Regulations to Curb Abuse

✈️ Recent Amendments Include:

• Visitors must show confirmed air tickets, hotel bookings, and proof of funds before entering the UAE.

• Stricter monitoring of companies recruiting foreign workers without valid permits.

As the UAE continues to enhance its regulatory framework, authorities urge residents and businesses to comply with labour laws to avoid severe penalties.