The United Arab Emirates has officially defined five categories of foreign nationals who are barred from entering the country, as outlined in the Executive Regulation of Law No. 6 of 1973 concerning the entry and residence of foreigners.

Types of Deportation in the UAE

The UAE enforces two deportation processes:

  • Judicial deportation: Ordered by courts for foreigners convicted of felonies or serious crimes, including sexual assault, under Article 121 of Law No. 3 of 1987 and subsequent amendments.
  • Administrative deportation: Issued by the Federal Identity and Citizenship Authority (FICA) without a court ruling, based on public security, morality, health concerns, or lack of means of livelihood. This can also apply to dependents.

The UAE Blacklist Categories

The country maintains a blacklist barring individuals from entry or exit. The five groups included are:

  • Persons previously convicted and court-ordered deported.
  • Individuals deported administratively under Article 23 of Law No. 6 of 1973.
  • Those flagged by the International Criminal Cooperation Department for suspicious activities.
  • People diagnosed with HIV/AIDS or other diseases deemed a public health risk by the Ministry of Health and Prevention.
  • Foreign nationals deported from other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states for criminal offenses.

Additional Administrative Lists

Separate from the blacklist, the UAE holds an administrative list including domestic workers who ended residency before contract expiry, absconders reported to police, and others under administrative deportation orders.

Reversing Entry Bans

Foreigners wishing to return after deportation must seek permission from the FICA director general, providing comprehensive details about their prior residency, deportation reasons, and evidence of changed circumstances.

When financial obligations remain unresolved at deportation, a grace period of up to three months may be allowed for settlement after posting bail.