One-year visa extension for divorcees and widows

The UAE Cabinet has adopted a decision to extend the visas of widowed or divorced women residing in the UAE and their children for one year from the date of the divorce or the death of the spouse, as part of the legislative changes approved by the Cabinet.

The decision grants widows and divorced women and their children one-year residence without the need for a sponsor. It aims to give women the opportunity to adjust their social and economic status.

The resolution will be effective as of the fourth quarter of this year and is part of the continuous efforts to develop government decisions and legislations that cater to larger segments of UAE’s residents and visitors and meet their main needs.

The decision takes into consideration the humanitarian conditions of widows and divorcees, and facilitates their stay in the country after the loss of the head of the family. It also aims to maintain family stability and social cohesion, and affirms the UAE’s position as a welcoming country to all nationalities in line with its history and values of extending a helping hand.