Member News

United Arab Emirates 

Dubai Government Approves Second Business Support Package - 5 June 2026 

Dubai’s Crown Prince has approved an additional AED 1.5 billion economic incentives package, bringing the total support measures introduced over the past two months to AED 2.5 billion. 

A closer look 

The package includes 33 initiatives to be rolled out over the next 3–12 months, providing targeted support across key sectors such as tourism, education, culture, trade, customs, transport, real estate, and civil aviation, with the aim of strengthening business continuity, economic resilience, and Dubai’s overall competitiveness. These include: 

Education 

• Deferral and conversion of license renewal fees and fines into an instalment payment option for private educational institutions, enabling amounts otherwise payable as a single lump-sum payment to be settled through multiple instalments.
• Exemptions from license renewal fees and fines for early childhood centres.
• Rent relief, rental freezes, and exemptions from certain insurance and contractual obligations for educational institutions. 

Tourism & Hospitality 

• Exemptions from Tourism Dirham collection and sales fees on hotel rooms and restaurants.
• Waivers of permit and license fees for holiday homes.
• Exemptions from event permit, postponement, and cancellation fees for conferences, exhibitions, and events.
• Reduced fees for tour guides and desert safari operators. 

Business Support 

•  Reduction of final retention security on government supply contracts from 10% to 2%.
• Increased exemption threshold for final insurance requirements from AED 5 million to AED 10 million.
• Extension of small to medium enterprise (SME) membership licenses by two additional years.
• One-time fee exemptions for sectors affected by business continuity challenges, including tourism, events, aviation, and marina-related activities. 

Customs & Transport 

• Instalment payment options for outstanding customs duties.
• 80% reduction in customs-related fines.
• Deferred payments and selected violation exemptions for transport operators. 

Real Estate & Aviation 

• Extended validity of building permits and housing loan approvals.
• Reduced renewal fees and suspension of late-renewal penalties for civil aviation activity permits. 

Implementation timelines will vary for the various initiatives and will be announced by the relevant government authorities in due course.  

Impact

These measures are intended to support business continuity, ease financial pressures across key sectors including education, tourism, hospitality, transport, real estate, aviation, and SMEs, and enhance liquidity, thereby contributing to sustained growth across the Emirate’s economic and tourism sectors.  

Background 

In April 2026, Dubai’s Crown Prince approved an AED 1 billion business support package aimed at enhancing economic resilience over a three- to six-month period starting April 1. The package includes a three-month postponement of selected government fees for mainland companies, with trade license renewal fees reduced by up to 50%.  Additional relief measures for the hospitality sector include delayed fees on rooms and food and beverage services, as well as a three-month deferral of the tourism dirham fee and an extension of the customs clearance grace period.  

Complementing these initiatives, several free zones introduced targeted support measures, including rent-free incentives tied to contract renewals, payment deferrals, and waivers of minor penalties. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Precautionary Measures Announced for Arrivals from, and Nationals of, Ebola-Affected Countries  - 5 June 2026 

Effective June 6, 2026, the UAE has suspended the issuance of new visas (including visit visas) for nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan as part of precautionary measures aimed at preventing the spread of the Ebola virus.  

In addition, entry to the UAE will be restricted for travellers arriving from these countries, including those travelling via transit through other countries. Entry will only be permitted for travellers who have spent more than 21 days outside the listed countries prior to arrival in the UAE.  

Transit flights will continue and will not be affected by these measures. 

Impact 

Employers in the UAE will be unable to process new visas, including visit visas, for nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. Travel and onboarding plans may be disrupted, and entry restrictions will apply to affected travellers unless they have spent more than 21 days outside the listed countries prior to arrival.  

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Abu Dhabi Imposes Immediate Temporary Freeze on Rent Increases - 5 June 2026 

Effective immediately, Abu Dhabi's Real Estate Centre has announced a temporary rent freeze on residential, commercial, and industrial leases with the exception of properties located within the Abu Dhabi Global Market. 

All contract renewals will be subject to a 0% increase, and any new tenancy for a previously rented unit must match the rental value of the previous contract. The measure applies until further notice.  

A closer look

Abu Dhabi's Real Estate Centre (ADREC) has clarified that no rent increases are permitted for new or renewed leases, with rental values required to remain the same as the previous contract. However, properties within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), including Al Reem Island and Al Maryah Island, are excluded from this policy, as ADGM operates under a separate legal and regulatory framework.  Previously, landlords and property managers could increase rent by up to 5% annually, provided tenants were notified at least two months before renewal. 

Tenants in Abu Dhabi are also subject to a 3% municipal housing fee on annual rent for all housing units. All residential and commercial tenancy contracts must be registered and attested through the Tawtheeq system, which provides legally binding records protecting both tenants and landlords.  

Impact 

For foreign nationals in Abu Dhabi, the rent freeze provides immediate financial relief, preventing landlords from increasing rent at renewal regardless of market conditions. It also strengthens tenants’ negotiating positions. Foreign nationals seeking new accommodations are also protected, as rents for previously leased units cannot exceed the amount in the prior tenancy contract. 

For employers, the measure offers short-term predictability when budgeting housing costs, though rental increases may resume once the freeze ends.   

Background 

Abu Dhabi's rental market has experienced sustained upward pressure in recent years due to strong population growth and limited housing supply, with residential rents rising by an estimated 11% in 2025.   

In 2024, Abu Dhabi introduced its first residential rental index to enhance market transparency for both tenants and landlords. 

The recent measure is expected to provide relief to tenants while supporting a balanced and sustainable real estate market, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's appeal as a place to live, work and invest. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

New Legal, Financial and Transport Reforms Take Effect - 3 June 2026 

A series of regulatory changes affecting daily life in the UAE came into force on June 1, 2026. The changes span legal, financial, and transport matters and include a reduction in the age of legal majority from 21 to 18 years, the introduction of VAT on Dubai parking and Salik toll fees and the phasing out of cash payments at Dubai parking meters. 

A closer look 

Age of Legal Majority 

The UAE has reduced its age of majority from 21 years to 18 years. From June 1, individuals aged 18 and above have full legal capacity to enter binding contracts, manage and dispose of assets, litigate or be sued in their own name, and make independent financial and legal decisions. Courts retain authority to intervene in cases of misuse. 

VAT on Dubai Parking 

Dubai's Parkin has applied a 5% VAT to all parking services, including on-street and off-street parking, seasonal cards, permits, and reservations.  

 VAT on Salik Toll Fees 

A 5% VAT is now applied to Salik toll fees and tag activation fees. The underlying toll fee structure remains unchanged; VAT is collected as a pass-through item on behalf of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). 

 Cash Payments Phased Out at Parking Meters 

Cash payments at Dubai parking meters are being phased out from June 1. Drivers may continue to pay via Nol card, the Parkin mobile app, Dubai Now, or the RTA app. The transition forms part of Dubai's broader digital payments strategy. 

Impact 

Assignees relocating to the UAE with dependants aged 18 and above should be aware that those individuals now hold full legal capacity under UAE law, including the ability to enter contracts and manage assets independently. Families should ensure dependants are appropriately briefed on the legal and financial responsibilities this entails. 

Employees using Dubai's road and parking infrastructure will see a modest increase in daily commuting costs as a result of the VAT application to Salik and Parkin services. Employers covering transport allowances or cost-of-living adjustments may wish to review whether these changes are captured in their compensation frameworks.

Background 

The UAE's decision to align its age of majority with the internationally recognized threshold of 18 years brings the country in line with most jurisdictions worldwide and simplifies cross-border legal and contractual matters for expatriates and their families. 

 The application of VAT to Salik and Parkin services follows the UAE's broader framework of progressive VAT implementation across public and commercial services since the tax was introduced in 2018. 

The revised Wage Protection System requirements reflect the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation's continued focus on enforcing timely salary payments and strengthening protections for workers in the private sector. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Additional Details on Nafis Extension and Enhancements Announced  - 3 June 2026 

Following the recent extension of the Nafis program to 2040, the UAE has announced additional details regarding the expanded benefits available under the program, together with a phased implementation timeline starting September 2026.  

A closer look  

Upcoming new policy additions to the Nafis program – a government initiative aimed at increasing the participation of Emirati nationals in the private sector – are as follows:  

Shift in Pension Contribution Responsibility 

Effective September 2026, Nafis will cease reimbursing 2.5% of the employer’s pension contribution, and employers will assume full responsibility for the pension contribution.   

Currently, the Nafis program reimburses 2.5% of the employer’s contribution for eligible employees earning below AED 20,000, and employers pay the Contribution Calculation Salary to the pension authority and subsequently claim reimbursement of 2.5% from Nafis.  

New salary support for families   

• Working women who have an Emirati husband. Effective September 2026, a Salary Support Scheme providing monthly support of up to AED 3,000 will be introduced for women working in the private sector who have Emirati husbands.   

Eligibility rules are as follows:  

• Salary. The applicant must earn a monthly salary between AED 6,000 and AED 15,000;
• Education. The applicant must have an accredited bachelor’s degree;   
• Husband’s status. The applicant’s Emirati husband must be employed in the public or private sector, retired, or unable to work due to certified medical reasons; and 
• Marriage/children. The applicant must have at least two children or have been married to her Emirati husband for at least five years. As an exception, the following applicants are only required to have been married for two years:   
  • Medical professionals holding medical degrees, and educational staff (teachers). 
  • PhD holders. The degree must be accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and
  • Scientific Research and obtained from a top ranked global university in the relevant field. 
  • Those with professional experience in critical occupations (to be announced later) in the labor market.   
•  Children of Emirati mothers. Effective September 2026, a Salary Support Scheme will be introduced, providing Emirati women with monthly support of up to AED 3,000 per child. 

To be eligible, applicants must be earning a monthly salary between AED 6,000 and AED 20,000 and have an accredited bachelor’s degree.  

Revised Monthly Top-Up Structure and Eligibility Thresholds  

• Effective September 2026, the maximum monthly salary top-up – currently capped at AED 7,000 – will be revised as follows and will apply to Emiratis earning between AED 6,000 and AED 30,000 per month: 
  • Bachelor’s degree holders: up to AED 6,000   
  • Diploma holders: up to AED 5,000   
  • High school graduates: up to AED 4,000 
  • Individuals below high school level: up to AED 4,000 if married or with dependents, or AED 3,000 if single, provided the monthly salary does not exceed AED 20,000.  
• The revised framework is expected to take effect for new beneficiaries from September 2026; while existing beneficiaries will be transitioned gradually over a period of up to three years. As part of this, from September 2026, existing support amounts will be reduced by AED 500 every six months until they align with updated thresholds.     
• Emiratis employed in free zones earning below AED 6,000 will benefit from a transition period, during which phased support will continue while employers adjust salaries to meet the approved minimum. The phased support will cover 100% of the current support value for six months starting from September 2026, followed by 70% for a further six months, and 30% for an additional three months. 

Skills-Focused Employment Shift. Although further details are not yet available, the Nafis program is also expected to implement new policies that will prioritize skills, competency, and strategic roles in sectors such as banking, artificial intelligence, and real estate, shifting from a focus on hiring volumes to high-value employment. 

Impact

The additional details provide greater clarity on how the enhanced Nafis framework will operate in practice which are expected to make private sector employment more attractive to Emirati nationals and strengthen financial support for families.  

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

New Wage Protection System Rules Introduced - 21 May 2026 

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has issued new regulations introducing new compliance rules and enforcement measures for private sector employers. The regulations will come into effect on June 1, 2026. 

A closer look.

Under the new framework, employers will be required to process employee salary payments through the approved Wage Protection System (WPS) or other Ministry of Human Resources Employment (MOHRE)-approved payment systems, ensuring wages are paid by the first day of each Gregorian month for the preceding month’s wages. Any payment made after this deadline will be considered delayed. Previously, employers were permitted to process salary payments up to the 15th day following the month which the wages were earned.  

The regulation also introduces an 85% wage transfer threshold, up from 80% for maintaining WPS compliance status. Employees will not be deemed unpaid where at least 85% of entitled wages are received, provided any deductions comply with UAE labour regulations. 

The regulations also introduce a structured escalation framework for delayed salary payments: 

• From the due date: electronic monitoring of employer compliance begins. 
• Day 2: MOHRE issues notifications and alerts to non-compliant establishments. 
• Day 5: suspension of new work permit applications.
• Day 11: administrative fines may apply, with repeat offenders within six months potentially reclassified to Third Category under MOHRE’s establishment classification system.
• Day 16: labour disputes may be automatically registered, with possible suspension of work permit services for larger establishments. 
• Day 21: further enforcement measures may be imposed, including wage recovery actions, precautionary attachment procedures, travel bans on responsible persons, and potential referral to the Public Prosecution in cases of repeated or significant violations. 

Certain categories are exempt from WPS requirements, including certain seafarers, mission work permit holders, foreign workers paid outside the UAE, banks and financial institutions, places of worship, and selected individually owned fishing boats and taxis. 

Notably, employers remain fully responsible for wage payments even where payroll processing is outsourced to third-party providers or payroll agents. 

Further procedural guidance from MOHRE is expected on implementation mechanisms and operational requirements. 

Impact 

Employers will need to ensure salary payments are processed through the WPS by the first day of each month, requiring tighter payroll timelines and closer coordination between HR, payroll, and finance teams. Companies may also need to review payroll cycles, banking arrangements, and approval processes to avoid delays and potential compliance action. 

Failure to comply with salary payment timelines may trigger a range of escalating administrative measures, including suspension of work permits, financial penalties, reclassification of establishments, labour complaints and travel bans. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Tenant Screening Service for Landlords Introduced  - 20 May 2026 

The UAE has introduced a Tenant Screening Service allowing landlords to request credit scores of prospective tenants. Developed by the Etihad Credit Bureau (ECB) in partnership with UAE PASS, the service helps assess financial reliability before tenancy agreements.  

The service is available via the ECB mobile app and requires tenant consent before any credit check is conducted.  

A closer look  

The new service enables landlords to view a prospective tenant’s credit score before signing a rental contract, subject to tenant consent via UAE PASS, ensuring individuals retain control over their financial information.  

The ECB has also enhanced its Cheque Clearance Indicator, using artificial intelligence to assess the likelihood of cheque clearance based on credit history, reflecting the continued use of postdated cheques for rent in the UAE.  

The initiative involves collaboration between public and private entities, including the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, with UAE PASS serving as a growing “digital trust infrastructure” for secure data exchange. 

Impact 

Employees seeking rental accommodation should be aware that landlords may request a UAE PASS credit check before proceeding with a tenancy application, and that this can only be carried out with the tenant’s consent. 

New foreign nationals with limited or no UAE credit history may face difficulties securing preferred accommodation, even if they are financially stable in their home country. 

Background 

The ECB was established to support financial transparency in the UAE and has been progressively expanding its range of tools for both individuals and businesses. 

The UAE PASS is the UAE’s unified digital identity platform, used across public and private services for secure, consent-based identity verification and data sharing. 

The new service aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to professionalize and regulate the rental market, reduce financial disputes between landlords and tenants, and strengthen overall confidence in the real estate sector. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Saudi Arabia 

Increased Labor Inspections - 5 June 2026 

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has intensified labor inspection activity across the private sector as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance with labor market requirements and Saudization obligations. 

A closer look 

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) announced that it conducted more than 250,000 inspection visits to private sector establishments during the first quarter of 2026, identifying over 168,000 labor law violations. Approximately 230,000 warnings were also issued to establishments to rectify compliance issues and align with applicable regulations.  

 The ministry reiterated its focus on enforcing Saudization requirements and combating “Sham Saudization”, where individuals are falsely reported as employees to improve an establishment's Saudization status. Using a combination of field inspections and smart monitoring tools, authorities reviewed approximately 91,000 suspected cases and identified more than 13,500 violations involving invalid employment relationships.  

As part of its enforcement actions, the ministry implemented a range of corrective and deterrent measures, including removing non-genuine employment cases from the Nitaqat program, withdrawing and cancelling more than 7,200 visas issued to non-compliant establishments, suspending certain government services, and referring affected individuals to the Human Resources Development Fund to support access to legitimate employment opportunities.  

The ministry also highlighted its continued use of digital monitoring and public reporting mechanisms, including action against unauthorized recruitment-related activities and other labor market violations.  

Impact 

The scale of enforcement activity highlights the importance of maintaining robust internal controls around workforce compliance and Saudization obligations. Employers are encouraged to conduct a compliance health check of their current practices to assess whether workforce records, payroll arrangements, GOSI registrations, job classifications, and Saudization reporting accurately reflect operational realities and align with current regulatory expectations. 

A proactive review can help identify potential compliance gaps and remediation opportunities before they become the subject of a government inspection or enforcement action.

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Qatar 

Reduced Grace Period Following Residence Permit Cancellation or Expiry  - 17 June 2026 

The grace period following the expiry or cancellation of a residence permit has been reduced to 14 days, down from 30 days. Overstaying beyond the 14-day period will result in a fine of QAR 10 per day.  

This development is being closely monitored to assess whether it reflects a temporary measure or a permanent policy change. 

Impact 

The reduced 14-day grace period shortens the time available for affected employees to exit or regularise their status, increasing the risk of overstay fines.   

Employers should ensure residence permit cancellations are closely tracked and advise employees promptly to enable timely departure or visa regularisation within the new timeframe.  

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].

Updated Commercial Activity Classification for Registered Companies Launched - 12 June 2026 

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has introduced an updated classification system for commercial activities applicable to all registered companies in Qatar. The update aligns Qatar’s framework with the GCC Unified Economic Classification Guide and will be rolled out in phases throughout June 2026. 

The reclassification will be applied automatically, without requiring any action from businesses, and will not affect the validity or substance of existing commercial registrations. 

A closer look

The updated classification framework is designed to standardise how commercial activities are identified and recorded across Qatar. It introduces a unified coding structure aligned with GCC standards, improving consistency and eliminating duplication across activity descriptions. 

The rollout of the updated classification system will occur in three phases: 

1. Phase 1 (1 June 2026): Applies to companies whose activities directly correspond to a single classification in the unified system.   
2. Phase 2 (15 June 2026): Covers activities that fall under multiple classification categories. 
3. Phase 3 (30 June 2026): Addresses mixed activities, including those combining commercial and industrial components.   

The process will be carried out by Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) without requiring filings or applications, and businesses are not expected to experience disruption to their operations. 

Impact 

Although no immediate action is required, companies should review their updated activity classifications once implemented. The revised framework may influence how activities are reflected in official records and could have implications for future licensing, regulatory approvals, and reporting requirements. 

Overall, the update is expected to enhance transparency, streamline regulatory processes, and improve alignment with regional and international economic classification standards. 

Background 

This initiative forms part of Qatar’s broader efforts to modernise its regulatory environment and align with GCC-wide economic frameworks. By adopting a unified classification system, MoCI aims to support greater consistency in economic data, facilitate regulatory efficiency, and strengthen the overall business environment. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Qatarisation Developments: Aligning Talent with Market Needs via Kawader - 11 June 2026 

Efforts to increase the participation of Qatari nationals in the workforce continue to advance, supported by targeted digital initiatives. Central to this is ‘Kawader’, an employment platform that supports increased participation of national talent in the workforce by aligning candidates with evolving labour market needs, while enhancing transparency and efficiency in recruitment processes.   

A closer look 

The “Kawader” platform enables private and public sector companies to post vacancies and connect with qualified Qatari nationals and children of Qatari women through a centralized database of verified candidate profiles, including qualifications and work experience. The platform also supports organizations in tracking Qatarization progress and aligning with national workforce policies. 

In addition, the platform supports Qatar’s workforce localization objectives by facilitating the recruitment of national talent and reducing reliance on foreign national labor. It provides employers with a structured mechanism to identify and engage qualified Qatari nationals and children of Qatari women, supporting workforce planning and compliance considerations. By centralizing hiring activities, the Kawader platform promotes greater consistency and transparency in recruitment processes, benefiting both employers and job seekers. 

Impact 

Employers operating in Qatar are strongly encouraged to register on the Kawader platform and align with Qatarisation requirements to support national workforce strategic planning. Employers should ensure their recruitment practices and internal processes are structured to accommodate centralized hiring mechanisms and ensure that Qatar’s citizens are actively integrated into the economy.  

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].

Kuwait

Commercial Visit Visa Issuance Resumes - 19 June 2026 

Effective immediately, Kuwaiti authorities have resumed the issuance of commercial visit visas. 

The Commercial Visit Visa is a single-entry visa valid for up to 30 days, issued at the request of a company registered in Kuwait. It is required for business related travel, including attending meetings, seminars and conferences, meeting with clients, and engaging in contract negotiations. 

Impact

The resumption of commercial visit visa issuance will allow foreign nationals to enter Kuwait for business purposes, facilitating planned meetings and work-related travel. 

Background 

Earlier this month, Kuwaiti authorities announced the temporary suspension of commercial visit visas for all nationalities. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].

Restrictive Changes to Nationality Law Implemented - 18 June 2026 

Kuwait has made significant restrictive changes to its nationality laws, including removing multiple naturalization routes and expanding the grounds for revoking nationality.  

A closer look 

The amended nationality law introduces key changes, including: 

• Naturalization framework removed. It is no longer possible to obtain Kuwaiti nationality by via long-term residence, good conduct, Arabic language proficiency, adequate qualifications or services rendered to the country.
• Temporary treatment as Kuwaiti until majority. Any person born in Kuwait or abroad to a Kuwaiti mother where the father is unknown or legal filiation is not established, aswell as to any person born in Kuwait to unknown parents, will now be treated as a Kuwaiti national until they turn 21.   
• Nationality of Kuwaiti women upon marriage. Kuwaiti women who marry foreign nationals will no longer lose their Kuwaiti nationality if they also acquire their husband's nationality. 
• Citizenship through marriage. Kuwaiti woman who acquired nationality through marriage to a Kuwaiti man will now lose her Kuwaiti nationality if the marriage ends or the husband dies. As an exception, if they have children from this Kuwaiti husband and they do not subsequently marry a non-Kuwaiti national they will not lose their Kuwait citizenship. Withdrawal shall also occur if she regains her original nationality or holds a foreign passport. 
• 10-year limit removed. Nationality will now be withdrawn on the basis of crimes involving moral turpitude or dishonesty, or disciplinary dismissal from government employment, regardless when in the past these events occurred. Previously, such events had to occur within the last 10 years.
• New grounds for revocation. New grounds revoking Kuwaiti nationality include offences against the Emir (the country’s head of state) and individuals who intentionally include in their nationality file or in another person’s nationality file any individual who is not their child or descendant. 
• Nationality retention for minors. Upon turning 21, people only have one year to declare retention of Kuwaiti nationality (down from two years).
• Penalties for false statements. Fines for providing false statements in nationality matters have increased to KWD 3,000 – 5,000 (up from KWD 200 – 500) depending on whether the false statement is due to lack of due diligence (lower range) or is made with knowledge of its falsity (higher range). 

Background 

In April 2025, Kuwait amended its nationality laws, including imposing stricter limitations on foreign national women married to Kuwaiti men; and creating new citizenship rights for children born to Kuwaiti mothers and foreign fathers. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Commercial Visit Visa Issuance Temporarily Suspended -10 June 2026

Effective immediately, Kuwaiti authorities have temporarily suspended the issuance of commercial visit visas for all nationalities until further notice. 

The Commercial Visit Visa is a single-entry visa valid for up to 30 days, issued at the request of a company registered in Kuwait. It is required for business related travel, including attending meetings, seminars and conferences, meeting with clients, and engaging in contract negotiations. 

Impact 

The suspension of commercial visit visa issuance restricts foreign nationals from entering Kuwait for business purposes, impacting planned meetings and work-related travel until further notice. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].

Deportation Rule Introduced for High-Speed Driving Offences - 20 May 2026 

Effective immediately, the Ministry of Interior has introduced a zero-tolerance enforcement measure requiring the immediate deportation of any foreign national found driving at speeds exceeding 150 km/h.  

Under this framework, vehicles are subject to on-the-spot impoundment, and offenders are transferred directly to the Administrative Deportation Department.  

A closer look 

Under the new framework, law enforcement officers are authorised to initiate deportation proceedings immediately upon detecting a speed violation above 150 km/h without exception or delay. The offending vehicle will be impounded at the point of detection, and the foreign national will be referred directly to the Administrative Deportation Department for processing and repatriation. 

All speed cameras and radar systems across Kuwait's road network have been calibrated specifically to detect this threshold, and specialised patrol units will maintain an increased presence on major arterial roads to monitor compliance. 

The measure applies exclusively to foreign nationals; Kuwaiti nationals are subject to separate penalties under the same traffic framework. 

Impact

Foreign national employees driving in Kuwait should be made aware of this policy immediately, as a single traffic violation above the 150 km/h threshold can result in the permanent loss of residency and immediate removal from the country. 

Employees on assignment or in transit who commute by road, particularly on intercity or highway routes, face the highest exposure and should be briefed accordingly by employers and HR teams. 

Given the administrative speed of deportation processing, there will be no opportunity to contest the violation before removal is initiated; any appeal or legal recourse would need to be pursued from outside Kuwait. 

Background 

Kuwait has periodically reinforced its traffic enforcement framework in response to high rates of road accidents. 

The country's foreign national population constitutes the majority of its resident workforce, making traffic regulations with immigration consequences especially significant for multinational employers and global mobility programs. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].

Oman

HIV Test Requirement for Filipino Nationals Travelling to Oman - 20 May 2026 

Effective immediately, Filipino nationals travelling to Oman are required to present a negative HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) test certificate prior to departure. However, no official announcement regarding this requirement has yet been issued by the authorities.: 

Although the authorities have not issued an official announcement regarding this requirement, airlines have reported that Filipino nationals travelling to Oman, regardless of their country of departure (including GCC countries), must present a negative HIV test certificate prior to departure. The certificate must be issued by an accredited clinic or medical centre and contain a QR code.  

This requirement does not apply to:  

• Children;   
• Filipino nationals residing in Oman and returning to Muscat; and   
• Filipino nationals holding an e-visa issued by Oman.  

It is currently unclear whether the negative HIV test certificate requirement applies to individuals travelling to Oman by road.  

Impact 

The new requirement may lead to additional pre-departure medical compliance steps for affected Filipino travellers to Oman, potentially resulting in longer preparation times and possible travel delays if the negative HIV test certificate is not obtained in advance.   

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Egypt 

Long-Term Multiple-Entry Visa for Algerian Nationals Introduced - 20 May 2026 

Algerian nationals can now obtain a new long-term multiple-entry visa for entry into Egypt; previously, no such visa existed for Algerian nationals.  

A closer look 

The long-term entry visa is valid for up to five years and permits multiple entries for tourism, business, and family visits, allowing Algerian nationals to travel to and from Egypt as often as needed without submitting repeated visa applications.    

The application fee is DZD 114,500 (approximately USD 861) and the required documents remain unchanged; however, for business visits, a commercial registration is required when applying for a five-year multiple-entry visa.   

Holders of the long-term entry visa may stay in Egypt for up to 180 days per visit. Notably, there will be no limit on the number of entries during the long-term entry visa's validity period.  

Currently, Egyptian consular posts have discretion to determine both the validity period of a visa and the authorised length of stay per entry. Most consular visas for Algerian nationals are typically issued with a validity of up to 180 days and may allow either single or multiple entries. Where a visa is issued with a 180-day validity, it will usually specify a permitted stay of 30, 60, or 90 days.  

Impact 

This new long-term entry visa will simplify travel to Egypt for Algerian nationals by removing the need to obtain a new consular visa for each visit, enhancing ease of travel for frequent travellers.  

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Middle East 

Travel and Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle East - 16 June 2026 

As the regional situation has stabilised and is no longer evolving rapidly, enhanced situational reporting is no longer required.  

We have therefore discontinued Situation Reports and reverted to our weekly News Flash format. Should conditions change, Situation Reports will be reactivated. 

Overview 

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) to end active hostilities between the United States and Iran has been agreed in principle, with a formal signing ceremony scheduled for June 19 in Geneva. The MOU is a political framework rather than a comprehensive peace agreement, and key issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme and the scope and sequencing of sanctions relief, are to be negotiated in a defined period following the signing, leaving the overall trajectory of the relationship uncertain. 

Cross-border hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah have continued despite previous US-mediated efforts to stabilise the Israel-Lebanon front. Hezbollah has launched further projectiles towards northern Israel, while Israel has conducted additional strikes on targets in southern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern suburbs, and has issued new evacuation orders for multiple towns in southern Lebanon. As a result, the ceasefire framework has not yet been translated into a durable security arrangement on the ground. 

The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed to commercial shipping, with only limited vessel movements recorded, and many operators reportedly waiting for clear evidence of improved security conditions before resuming transit. Although the US-Iran framework envisages the reopening of the waterway, disruptions to maritime trade and energy flows are expected to persist in the near term. 

Overall, the regional environment remains fragile, with elevated but easing escalation risks as diplomatic efforts advance. The sustainability of any de-escalation will depend on successful implementation of the US-Iran framework and a reduction in conflict dynamics along the IsraelLebanon front. 

Mobility Access 

Airspace and Flights Status  

Airspace conditions across the region have stabilized to an extent, with most regional airspaces open and airports operational. However, not all international airlines have resumed services, and flight schedules remain uneven. Stability remains contingent on the current ceasefire, and conditions may change at short notice.  

Travelers should monitor updates from airlines and relevant authorities and allow for flexibility when planning travel.  

Land Borders  

Land border crossings across the region generally remain open. However, operations may be restricted (e.g. reduced hours, directional controls, enhanced screening).    

Processing Status 

Immigration processes are largely continuing without significant disruption; however, the security situation continues to impact consular services in parts of the region, which may be reduced, temporarily suspended, or limited to emergency cases.  

Several governments across the region have implemented temporary immigration and business support measures in response to travel disruptions and economic uncertainty, offering concessions and relief to foreign nationals and businesses. Most of these immigration-related concessions have now been withdrawn; however, temporary measures remain in effect in IraqiKurdistan. 

Impact 

For organisations, key risks include maritime disruption and continued violence in Lebanon, reinforcing the need for ongoing monitoring and regularly updated contingency plans. While operations can continue, organizations should ensure immigration applications remain complete and compliant with current and jurisdiction-specific requirements.  

Travellers should monitor updates from airlines and relevant authorities, allow for flexibility in travel planning, and not assume that any extensions or waivers apply unless formally confirmed by the relevant authority. 

This News Flash complements Fragomen’s Travel and Mobility Considerations microsite. 

 If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].

Update on Temporary Ebola-Related Restrictions in the Middle East - 12 June 2026 

As a response to an Ebola outbreak reported in parts of Africa, several countries across the region have introduced various restrictions for entry and immigration processing. 

A closer look 

In addition to the measures previously introduced by Bahrain, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, further measures have been introduced or updated: 

Jordan (update) 

Jordanian nationals currently in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) or Uganda are permitted to return; however, they will be required to undergo a 21-day quarantine upon arrival, either in designated facilities or at home.  

Kuwait 

Kuwait is currently prohibiting entry for all non-Kuwaiti nationals arriving from, or who have been present in, the DRC, South Sudan, or Uganda within 21 days prior to arrival. 

Lebanon 

Lebanon is currently prohibiting entry to all nationals of DRC and Uganda.   

Impact 

Employers may experience disruptions to travel and mobility arrangements for affected individuals, including delays or inability to travel due to visa suspensions, increased health screening measures, and evolving entry requirements as authorities continue to monitor the Ebola outbreak.  

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].

GCC Updates Wafid Program to Strengthen Medical Screening of Foreign Nationals - 5 June 2026 

The GCC member states have agreed on updated regulations for the Wafid program, strengthening the framework governing pre-departure medical screening of foreign nationals traveling to GCC countries for work or residence purposes.   

A closer look 

The Wafid program is a mandatory medical screening initiative managed by the Gulf Health Council operating across the GCC for pre-departure overseas medical screening of foreign national workers and residents. The program provides standardized processes, but practical implementation and procedural requirements vary by country. The updated framework formalizes and strengthens several core aspects of the system, including: 

• mandatory use of the centralized electronic Wafid platform; 
• electronic verification of medical fitness by GCC embassies and consulates; 
• GCC accreditation and oversight of approved medical centers abroad; 
• centralized reporting of medically unfit applicants; and 
• expanded inspection, compliance, and enforcement mechanisms.   

Impact 

Under the updated framework, only GCC-approved medical centers may conduct Wafid examinations, with medical results uploaded directly into the electronic platform before visa processing can proceed.  

Compared to the previous framework, the updated regulations place greater emphasis on centralized GCC coordination, electronic processing, standardized testing procedures, and enhanced oversight of approved clinics and medical reporting. The Gulf Health Council also retains broad authority to revise medical screening requirements, including laboratory testing standards, vaccination requirements, and medical inadmissibility criteria.  

Of the GCC member states, Kuwait is currently the only jurisdiction to have formally implemented the updated framework through domestic executive regulations issued by the Ministry of Health. 

Other GCC states have not yet publicly issued equivalent updated domestic implementing regulations.  

For employers, the updated Wafid program means stricter compliance requirements and greater responsibility to ensure foreign nationals’ medical screening is processed through the centralized electronic platform.  

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected]. 

Jordan and Bahrain Introduce Temporary Ebola-Related Entry Restrictions - 20 May 2026 

Effective 20 May 2026, Jordan has suspended entry for travelers arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda for 30 days. Jordanian nationals are exempt from the restriction. 

Similarly, Bahrain has suspended entry for non-Bahraini travelers arriving from South Sudan, the DRC, and Uganda, including individuals who have visited those countries within 30 days prior to arrival. Bahraini nationals may still enter but will be subject to applicable health protocols. 

Other countries in the region are also monitoring the situation and implementing precautionary measures. In Egypt, authorities have increased screening and preparedness measures at airports, seaports, and land borders to help prevent the spread of the virus. 

The measures remain subject to ongoing review based on developments related to the Ebola outbreak and World Health Organization guidance. 

Impact  

The temporary entry suspensions in Jordan and Bahrain may impact travel and mobility for affected individuals, with possible disruptions to travel plans, increased health screening measures, and evolving entry requirements as authorities continue to monitor the Ebola outbreak. 

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Fragomen at [email protected].