IMPACT – HIGH

Effective March 26, all Dubai government departments are closed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Key Points:

  • Immigration offices, medical and Emirates ID centers are closed.
  • Medical and Emirates ID appointments are canceled.
  • Endorsement of residence permits in passports for in-country applications is suspended.

Additional information: The other Emirates are implementing similar measures. The Dubai government stated that it expects all government departments to have a remote work program in place by March 29 and visa processing clarification will follow. Urgent visa stamping for approved residence permits is available at the immigration department of the Dubai International Airport. The government may implement a series of temporary measures, including approving visas in-principle, with medical exams, biometrics and visa stamping to follow at a later date.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should anticipate that closures and processing suspension will significantly disrupt business activity and employee mobility. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

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