The UAE is known for its strict legal system, which includes travel bans that can be imposed for various reasons, such as financial disputes, criminal cases, immigration violations, and employment-related conflicts. If you suspect that you may have a travel ban, it is crucial to verify your status before making any travel arrangements to avoid complications at the airport.
What is a travel ban?
A travel ban in the UAE is a legal restriction that prevents an individual from leaving the country. It can be issued by government authorities, the police, or the courts due to unresolved legal matters. Travel bans can be imposed for the following reasons:
- Unpaid loans or financial disputes
- Pending court cases or legal proceedings
- Criminal investigations
- Overstaying a visa
- Employment-related disputes
Ways to check for a travel ban in the UAE
1. Check through Dubai Police online services
For residents in Dubai, the Dubai Police offers an online service where individuals can check if they have a travel ban related to financial cases. This can be accessed through:
- Dubai Police Website (www.dubaipolice.gov.ae)
- Dubai Police App (available on iOS and Android)
- By calling 901 (Dubai Police’s non-emergency number)
To use the online service, you need to enter your Emirates ID number and follow the instructions to check for any active travel bans.
2. Use the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s ‘Estafser’ service
If you are based in Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department provides an online service called ‘Estafser’ to check if there are any travel restrictions due to ongoing legal cases.
- Visit www.adjd.gov.ae
- Navigate to the ‘Estafser’ service
- Enter your unified number (UID) to check your status
3. Contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
For a more comprehensive check, you can visit or contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in your emirate:
- Dubai: www.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Abu Dhabi & Other Emirates: Visit the local GDRFA office
4. Visit the Public Prosecution Office
If you have an ongoing legal case, you can directly inquire at the Public Prosecution Office in your emirate to verify whether there is a travel ban imposed on you.
5. Consult with a lawyer
If you suspect you have a travel ban but cannot confirm through online services, it is advisable to consult a legal professional who can check your status through official channels and provide guidance on how to resolve any issues.
What to do If you have a travel ban?
If you discover that you have a travel ban, here are the steps you should take:
- Identify the reason – Determine whether the ban is due to financial, legal, or immigration-related issues.
- Settle any outstanding debts or cases – If the ban is due to unpaid loans, contact your bank or lender to negotiate a settlement.
- Hire a legal expert – If the ban is related to a court case, seek legal advice to understand your options.
- Follow up with authorities – Visit the relevant government department to get clarification and updates on the status of your case.
