Did UAE Ban Iranian Nationals From Entry and Transit? Here’s What We Know

Last updated: Sep 7, 2026

A current blanket UAE entry-and-transit ban for Iranian nationals could not be verified from the official sources reviewed. The April reports should not be treated as a current boarding rule.

In its published statement of 2 April 2026, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement refuting what it called “inaccurate” media claims about the residency status of the Iranian community, affirming that the UAE “is home to a respected and valued Iranian community that forms an integral part of its social fabric.”

Table of Contents

What Can Be Confirmed

Emirates provides an IATA-powered visa and passport checker that distinguishes nationality, residency, destination and transit countries. A flight being offered by Emirates, Etihad or flydubai does not establish an individual passenger’s right to enter or transit Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement addresses residency reports; it does not set out an entry-and-transit exemption list.

Who Is Exempt

A current official exemption list could not be verified. Holding a Golden Visa, being related to a UAE national or working in a listed profession should not be treated as automatic boarding clearance.

Confirm your travel eligibility directly with the airline using your passport, residency and full itinerary before booking.

A Note on Residency Visa Reports

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs refuted these reports, stating that the UAE’s “institutional approach is guided by well-established procedures and frameworks that safeguard the safety and well-being of all members of society, without exception.”

If you hold a UAE residency visa, check your visa status through the ICP Smart Services portal before attempting to travel.

What to Do if You’re Affected

If you’re an Iranian national with upcoming travel to or through the UAE, contact your airline directly to confirm whether you can still board.

Here are practical steps to take right now:

Check your flight status using the Wego flight tracker to see if your route through Dubai or Abu Dhabi is still operating.
Look for alternative routes. If you were transiting through the UAE, consider connecting through Istanbul, Doha, or Muscat instead. Transit and entry eligibility must be confirmed for the complete alternative itinerary; the availability of a connection is not permission to travel.
If you’re outside the UAE with a residency visa: Check your visa status through the ICP Smart Services portal before attempting to return. The UAE MoFA has refuted media reports about mass visa cancellations, but it is advisable to verify your individual status.
Request refunds or rebooking: If your flight is now invalid, contact your airline’s customer service to request a refund or rebooking to an alternative destination.

This situation is evolving rapidly. Restrictions could tighten — or ease — with little warning. Check back regularly for updates.

Sources

Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.