Over 32,000 residency law offenders in UAE caught in 6 months

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) caught more than 32,000 people in violation of the UAE's entry and residence law between January and the end of June. These figures are part of the authority's nationwide inspection campaigns under the slogan "Towards a Safer Society", which aim to enhance compliance with the laws and regulations governing the residence and work of foreigners in the country.

Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the ICP, said that the Authority's inspection campaigns aim to prevent violations and provide residents and visitors of the country with the opportunity to live and work in accordance with the law, thereby improving their quality of life.

He further stated that the campaigns demonstrate the Authority's commitment to fostering a culture of legal compliance among all members of society, and to eliminating the phenomenon of violations by taking appropriate legal action against offenders and offering them the chance to regularise their status or face deportation. This approach supports societal security and stability.

He also pointed out that legal measures had been taken against those caught in violation of the law, with approximately 70 per cent of them being deported once the legal procedures had been completed. Some of those caught were detained pending transfer to the relevant authorities for legal action.

Major General Suhail Al Khaili also indicated that the ICP is continuing to undertake nationwide checks on individuals to identify those who have offended the established regulations.

Special teams are constantly working to catch individuals offending the regulations, and that the Authority will initiate legal proceedings against those who have violated the law concerning the entry and residence of foreigners, as well as those who are providing shelter or employment for them, he added.

 It was asserted that the legislation pertaining to the entry and residence of foreign nationals within the nation is accompanied by stringent sanctions and financial penalties for those who contravene it.

The Director General of the ICP urges all segments of UAE society to comply with the provisions of the Law on the Entry and Residence of Foreigners in the UAE and refrain from employing those who violate it. This is to implement the law's provisions and contribute to the protection of society's security.