travel ban uae debt

United Arab Emirates: How Is The Travel Ban Imposed In The UAE In Terms Of Financial Matters?

A travel ban, in common terms, means restricting an individual who is inside the country to exit the country and prohibiting an individual who is outside the country to enter or re-enter the country.

The UAE courts enforce travel ban on several grounds, such as violation of immigration laws, having unpaid debts, or under personal status law matters. One of the most common reasons for a travel ban being issued is because of debts that are unpaid.

Applicable Laws

While there is no specific law which comprehensively deals with all kinds of travel ban and the procedures for execution of travel bans, a foreigner in UAE could face travel ban in case of outstanding debt. This is explained below.

The applicable law governing the procedure for recovering debt through court is set out in the Federal Law No. 11 of 1992 ( UAE Civil Procedure Code ) read with the Cabinet Decision No. 57 of 2018 as amended from time to time ( Cabinet Decision ).

Procedure of Travel Ban for Unpaid Debts

Under the UAE Civil Procedure Code read with the Cabinet Decision, if a creditor has serious concerns that the debtor will escape, the creditor is entitled to request a competent judge to issue an order prohibiting the debtor from travelling. This will happen in the following cases under Article 188 of the Cabinet Decision.

• The debt should be of at least AED 10,000; and
• If the debt is of a specific amount, accrued and not subject to any conditions; or
• If the debt is not of a specific amount, the judge will make an evaluation, provided that the claim for the right is based on written evidence and creditor submits a guarantee to the court.

Once the court issues a travel ban, the court may order that the debtor's passport be deposited at the court's treasury and the travel ban order is circulated throughout the state's outlets.

Under Article 188/4 of the Cabinet Decision, the person against whom travel ban order is issued may file a grievance against the travel ban order.

Once a travel ban has been issued, the creditor must file a claim before the competent courts or in case a final judgement has been delivered in the creditor's favour, file an applicable for enforcement of the final judgement.

Period of Travel Ban

The travel ban order will continue to be effective and in force till the time the debts are not repaid. That said, the travel ban can be removed by the court in some cases under Article 189 of the Cabinet Decision. These include: 

• Conditions applicable for travel ban are no longer available.
• Inability of the creditor to give the judge evidence of filing of debt action within 8 days of issuance of travel ban.
• Non-enforcement of final judgement issued in creditor's favour within 30 days from date of becoming final.
• Submission of a bank guarantee to the court by the debtor.
• If the creditor agrees to take back the order.
• Deposit of the debt amount by the debtor to the court.

If an individual is concerned whether there is a travel ban order issued against him/her, he/she should get in touch with a local lawyer who will be able to guide the individual on finding any outstanding travel ban orders issued in the UAE and advise on the appropriate legal steps.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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Check if you have a travel ban

Dubai Police has an online free-of-charge service, that enables residents in the UAE to check if they have a travel ban due to financial cases in the emirate of Dubai only. To use the service you need to enter your Emirates ID card number.

To avail the service visit the Dubai Police website or download the Dubai Police app available on iTunes  and  Google Play. For further enquiries, call Dubai Police on 901.

The Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi has an online service called ' Estafser' , which enables the residents of Abu Dhabi to check whether they are requested by the Public Prosecution for any claims against them. To use the service, requester must enter his/her unified number.

Before planning your travel, it is also advisable to check and/or solve any issues that might stop you at the airport immigration counters. If necessary, you may seek the assistance of a lawyer, or contact the nearest immigration/police office in your area for an advice.

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Are You Facing Travel Ban in UAE Due to Credit Card Dues? Don’t Worry

Pavitra Shetty , TLR

Published on March 1, 2024 , 09:24:00

In the UAE, travel bans are being imposed on individuals who are unable to pay their UAE credit card debt. The travel ban is imposed by the government through the immigration authorities and is based on a list provided by the credit card companies. This list contains the names of individuals who have failed to pay their debts and are considered high-risk.

The travel ban has serious consequences for individuals who are affected. It restricts their freedom of movement and can lead to job loss and financial hardship. In addition, the ban can have a negative impact on their credit score, making it difficult for them to access credit in the future. This can result in a vicious cycle of debt and financial hardship.

Unpaid UAE credit card debts can lead to a number of legal consequences, including travel restrictions and arrest in some cases. However, whether or not an individual can be arrested in the home country specifically for unpaid UAE credit card debts depends on the details of the situation and the cooperation between the two countries.

The UAE travel ban on credit card dues can be a major obstacle for individuals facing financial challenges. However, there are solutions available to resolve this issue.

Understanding the Legal Landscape and Assessing Your Situation

Gain insight into the legal framework governing credit card dues and travel bans in the UAE . Learn about relevant laws, regulations, and procedures that impact individuals facing financial difficulties. Understand the reasons behind your credit card dues and evaluate the extent of the travel ban's impact on your plans.

Exploring Negotiation Options and Seeking Professional Guidance

Discover strategies for negotiating with creditors to address credit card dues and potentially lift the travel ban. Explore alternatives such as debt restructuring, settlement agreements, and repayment plans. Reach out to financial experts who specialize in navigating credit card dues and travel bans in the UAE.

Legal Remedies and Recourse, and Creating a Customised Plan

Explore legal remedies available under UAE law for individuals unable to resolve credit card dues through negotiation. Learn about options such as filing for bankruptcy, challenging the travel ban through legal channels, and seeking legal representation. This may involve negotiating repayment terms with your creditors, exploring debt consolidation options, or seeking financial assistance programs.

Implementing a Legal Strategy and Taking Action

Create a comprehensive legal strategy with the help of lawyers tailored to your specific circumstances, navigate the complexities of the legal system effectively, and take proactive steps to address your credit card dues. This may include making regular payments, adjusting your budget, or seeking additional sources of income to expedite the process.

Monitoring Progress and Compliance

Stay informed about the progress of legal proceedings and ensure compliance with any agreements or court orders. Understand the importance of monitoring your financial situation and taking proactive steps towards resolution.

Some Other Reasons for Travel Ban

Visa Overstay : Exceeding the permitted duration of stay on a visa can result in a travel ban being imposed.

Absconding Case : Being involved in a case related to absconding, where an individual leaves their place of work without informing their employer, can lead to a travel ban.

Defaulting on a Bank Loan : Failing to repay a bank loan can result in legal action , including the imposition of a travel ban.

Late Rent Payments : Falling behind on rental payments can lead to legal proceedings and potential travel restrictions.

Criminal Case Against You : Involvement in a criminal case may result in a travel ban until the legal proceedings are resolved.

Civil or Commercial Cases : Involvement in civil or commercial disputes can also result in travel bans until the cases are resolved.

Acting as a Guarantor : Acting as a guarantor for another individual’s financial obligations can potentially lead to a travel ban if the obligations are not met.

If you find yourself facing a travel ban, it is crucial to check the details and conditions of the ban on the Dubai Police App. Additionally, you can take steps to address the situation by applying for the ban to be lifted through the Ministry of Justice website.

For any enquiries or information, contact  [email protected]  or call us on  +971 52 644 3007 .  Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels.

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Removing Financial Travel Bans in the UAE with Lotus Debt Management

For many individuals in the UAE, grappling with a travel ban imposed by financial institutions can be a challenging ordeal. This blog aims to shed light on the intricacies of travel bans, guide you on how to check for them, and provide practical steps to remove these restrictions for a seamless travel experience. Discover a solution-focused approach with Lotus Debt Management.

Understanding Travel Bans:

A travel ban imposed by financial institutions usually stems from outstanding debts or financial issues, preventing individuals from leaving the country until the matter is resolved. It’s crucial to take proactive steps to address these situations and prevent disruptions to personal and professional plans.

How to Check for a Travel Ban:

Visit the Dubai Police Website:

• Utilize the user-friendly online service on the Dubai Police website to check for travel bans instantly. Navigate to the ‘Criminal Status of Financial Cases’ section and enter your details.

Contact the UAE Ministry of Interior:

• Reach out to the UAE Ministry of Interior through official channels for information on any travel bans linked to financial matters.

Consult with a Legal Professional:

• Seeking legal advice is prudent. Legal professionals can help you navigate financial cases and provide insights into any travel bans in place.

Steps to Remove Financial Institution-Imposed Travel Bans in UAE:

Contact Lotus Debt Management:

• Initiate the process by reaching out to Lotus Debt Management, experts in resolving financial challenges. Our certified counselors can guide you on the necessary steps to remove the travel ban.

Negotiate a Repayment Plan:

• Work closely with Lotus Debt Management to negotiate a practical and achievable repayment plan. Demonstrating your commitment to resolving financial matters is key to a successful resolution.

Seek Professional Assistance:

• Engage the services of Lotus Debt Management professionals who specialize in financial cases. Benefit from expert guidance to navigate the process of removing travel bans.

Settle Outstanding Debts:

• Prioritize settling outstanding debts with the assistance of Lotus Debt Management. Clear communication and resolution of financial matters are crucial steps in the process.

Obtain Necessary Clearance:

• Lotus Debt Management will assist you in obtaining the necessary clearance documents from the relevant financial institution, confirming the successful resolution of outstanding financial matters.

Facing a travel ban imposed by financial institutions in the UAE can be daunting, but with the right approach, it’s possible to navigate through and successfully remove these restrictions. Lotus Debt Management is here to guide you through the process, offering expert advice and personalized strategies to resolve financial challenges.

Take the first step toward a hassle-free travel experience – book a Free Consultation call with Lotus Debt Management today.

Connect with Lotus Debt Management to start your journey towards a travel ban-free future:

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Travel Ban in the UAE: 7 Common Reasons Explained

Main Points

7 Common Reasons for Travel Ban in the UAE: Know the Restrictions:

Travel ban can be imposed in the UAE for administrative or legal reasons, either by executive bodies like the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) or by court orders. Here are the various instances that may lead to a travel ban:

• Visa Overstay
• Absconding Case
• Defaulting on a Bank Loan
• Late Rent Payment
• Criminal Cases
• Civil or Commercial Cases
• Acting as a Guarantor

1.Visa Overstay

When someone overstays their visa in the UAE, they are in violation of the country’s immigration laws. As a consequence, they might face deportation, and after leaving the country, a travel ban may be imposed to prevent them from re-entering.

2. Absconding Case:

An absconding case is filed by employers against employees who have abandoned their jobs without notice or have not reported to work for a certain period. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) takes such cases seriously, and if a ban is placed, it can only be lifted by the employer (sponsor) or by proving the case invalid to the relevant authorities.

3. Defaulting on a Bank Loan:

If someone defaults on their bank loan or credit card payment, the bank may take legal action to recover the dues. This action may involve presenting a security cheque issued by the individual. If the cheque bounces or the bank seeks full payment through a court order, an immediate travel ban can be imposed.

4. Late Rent Payment:

Failure to respond to the landlord’s rent payment notice or not meeting tenant obligations can lead to a travel ban. The Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) intervenes in such cases to enforce rental agreements and ensure landlords’ rights are protected.

5. Criminal Cases:

For ongoing criminal investigations or court cases, an administrative authority may issue a circular to prevent the accused person from leaving the country until the case is resolved and the verdict is implemented. In severe criminal cases, like drug use or assault, leading to deportation, a travel ban may prevent re-entry to the UAE after deportation.

6. Civil or Commercial Cases:

In civil or commercial cases involving non-payment of dues by a company or family court guardianship disputes, a travel ban can be imposed as a precautionary measure until the legal proceedings are concluded.

7. Acting as a Guarantor:

If an individual stands as a guarantor for someone involved in a police or court case, they may face a travel ban during the period they serve as the guarantor. The ban is to ensure that the guarantor remains available to answer for the individual they have guaranteed.

Overall, travel bans are taken seriously in the UAE and are intended to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. If someone finds themselves facing a travel ban, it is essential to address the underlying issue and take appropriate legal steps to have the ban lifted or resolved.

How to check if you have a travel ban in UAE?

You can also visit the Dubai Police Station in person to check your UAE immigration status. 

Before making any travel plans, it is advisable to check for any potential issues that could lead to complications at airport immigration counters. If you find any problems, seeking the assistance of a lawyer or contacting the nearest immigration/police office in your area for advice is recommended. This way, you can resolve any outstanding matters and ensure a smoother travel experience.

How to request for cancellation of travel ban with UAE Ministry of Justice?

To request the cancellation of a travel ban placed due to a court case with the UAE Ministry of Justice, follow these steps:

Step 1: Submit the Request

• Click on ‘Start service.’
• You’ll be directed to your personal dashboard.
• Under ‘Case Management,’ click on ‘My cases’ to view a list of cases related to you.
• Click on the eye icon to view the details of the relevant case.
• From the available options, select ‘request.’
• Fill in the required form, providing details about the request and the case. Note that the available options under ‘request name’ may vary based on the case type, and some requests may require payment. Once submitted and paid for, the request will be routed for approval, and certain requests may also need approval from the court judge.
• Upload any necessary related documents.
• Click on ‘Submit.’

Step 2: Make Payment After submitting the request, you may be required to make payments, if applicable to your case. Follow these steps to check and pay the required amount:

• Click on the dashboard and enter your application’s reference number.
• Look for a checkbox on the right-hand corner of the screen and click on it.
• A page will display the payment details. Click on ‘Continue.’
• Provide your card details to complete the payment.

Step 3: View or Print the Request To view or print the request for your records:

• On your personal dashboard, access ‘Case Management – My Cases.’
• Click on the eye icon to open the case files.
• Go to the documents section and click on the file link to download the PDF for printing.

The Ministry of Justice’s website states that the application will be processed within five working days. If approved, the travel ban will be canceled. You can track the progress of your request online through your case dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs on Travel Ban in UAE:

How can i check if i have a travel ban in the uae.

You can check for a travel ban by using the online service provided by Dubai Police or the ‘Estafser’ service offered by the Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi. For the Dubai service, you need to enter your Emirates ID card number, and for the Abu Dhabi service, you must provide your unified number.

What types of cases can lead to a travel ban in the UAE? 

Travel bans in the UAE are often related to financial cases, such as unpaid debts, bounced checks, or other financial disputes.

Can I check for a travel ban if I am not a resident of Dubai or Abu Dhabi?

The online services provided by Dubai Police and the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department are specifically designed for UAE residents. If you are a resident in another emirate, you may need to contact the relevant local authorities or immigration offices to inquire about travel bans.

How long does a travel ban last in the UAE?

The duration of a travel ban in the UAE can vary depending on the specific case and the decisions made by the authorities or the court. It may be lifted once the issue is resolved, such as by settling the debt or meeting the legal requirements.

Can a travel ban be lifted before my departure date? 

In some cases, yes. If you resolve the issue that led to the travel ban, you can request the relevant authorities to lift the ban, which may allow you to travel before your initial departure date.

Can I travel to other emirates within the UAE if I have a travel ban in one emirate?

A travel ban in one emirate usually applies to all UAE borders, which means you may not be able to travel to any other emirate until the ban is lifted.

Can a travel ban be imposed for reasons other than financial cases?

While financial cases are a common reason for travel bans in the UAE, other legal matters, such as criminal cases or pending court orders, may also result in travel restrictions.

What should I do if I find out I have a travel ban? 

If you discover that you have a travel ban, it is essential to address the issue promptly. You should seek legal advice, contact the relevant authorities, or work on resolving the matter that led to the ban.

Can I still enter the UAE if I have a travel ban in another country? 

The travel ban in the UAE applies to your departure from the country, not your entry into it. If you have a ban in another country, it won’t directly affect your entry into the UAE, but you may still face legal consequences if you attempt to leave the UAE while the ban is in place.

How to check for a travel ban in Dubai?

Through the Dubai Police’s website Personally visiting to a Dubai Police Station Calling Amer Hire a lawyer to check your status on your behalf

How long will UAE travel ban last?

The duration of UAE travel bans or immigration bans can vary depending on the specific circumstances. Typically, immigration bans in the UAE may last for one year, but they can also be shorter, such as six months, or in some cases, they may result in a lifetime ban. The length of the ban is determined based on the nature of the violation or legal issue that led to the ban being imposed.

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Travel Ban in UAE: All you need to know

March 6, 2019 > United Arab Emirates > Crime

Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy | View firm profile

“ The freedom of movement and residence will be granted within limits of laws ” quotes from Article 29 of the UAE constitution offers freedom and simultaneously curtail it on the basis of law. It implies that everyone enjoys the freedom to travel inside and outside the country unless specifically objected by law through a travel ban. 

The notion travel ban or deportation is used common parlance in UAE and can be imposed on various grounds such as, as a consequence of a criminal act, violating immigration laws, unpaid debts, under a civil claim. The concerned article, by Criminal Lawyers in Dubai, intends to guide the readers in comprehending the laws pertaining to a travel ban in UAE, the procedure for removing a travel ban in UAE and other similar points.

In legal terms travel ban is a restriction on ongoing freedom of movement or prohibiting a particular individual from entering, re-entering or exiting the country. The travel ban so issued by the government of UAE restrict the individual to cross the border through any means of transport. As mentioned above, travel ban can be caused through a variety of claims and complaints and some of these claims arose due to legal implications or due to immigration. A travel ban is distinctly different from a labour ban or an arrest warrant, and the difference is highlighted as below:

A.       Travel Ban and Labor Ban : a labour ban does not restrict the individual to enter or exit the country. However, it restricts to receive a work permit from MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization) for a limited period pursuant to Federal Law Number 8 of 1980 concerning the Labor Law of UAE and its amendments. In such circumstances, the employee can either visit the country on a different visa and can apply for a job where a work permit from MOHRE is not required such as in free zone companies or public sector. On the other hand, a travel ban is a ban on immigration to enter UAE for all or any reason.

B.       Travel Ban and Arrest Warrant : An arrest warrant is issued for detention of a person by a competent authority who committed a criminal offence under Article 45-46 of the Federal Law Number 3 of 1987 concerning the Penal Code or who fails to oblige with the final judgment of execution court under Federal Law Number 11 of 1992 regarding the Civil Procedure Code. An arrest warrant under criminal law is issued if the public prosecutor has sufficient evidence of his guilt, whereas, under the Civil Law, the arrest warrant can be issued by a judge of Execution court, should the debtor fails to submit the claim which is more than AED 10,000. Ergo, the objective of an arrest warrant is entirely different from that of the travel ban, as, in an arrest warrant, the accused is kept in custody until the happening of a specific event, whereas, the travel ban does not let the person enter or exit the country permanently until specifically removed. In the case of a travel ban, the accused will not be allowed to cross the border or enter UAE, however, it does not mean that he will be detained at the airport unless specifically mentioned by the court or competent authority. All the arrest warrants entail travel ban, but all the travel ban does not require an arrest warrant.

UAE Laws on Travel Ban

The legislature of UAE does not involve a particular law designated to issues pertaining to a travel ban and the procedure for its removal. However, its existence is evident from various federal laws of UAE. Accordingly, Federal Law Number 6 of 1972 regarding the Immigration law and an amendment through Ministerial Decree Number 83 of 2002 which provides a non-exhaustive list of categories under which an expatriate cannot enter or exit the country. The preceding list is defined under Article 94 of the Decree as follows:

Individuals restricted from entering the country:

      The individual against whom a criminal complaint has been filed;

b.      A person who has been deported by the competent authority;

c.       An individual who has been expelled or has a travel ban from GCC countries;

d.Anyone who is involved in the activity reported by Interpol;

e.      Someone who suffers from a disease which is hazardous for public health.

Individuals who are restricted to leave the country:

a.      Anyone who holds a travel ban imposed by any public prosecutor due to an ongoing investigation;

b.      Someone who is banned by the criminal or civil court;

c.       Ban issued by the Minister for those who default in the payment of debts of UAE government.

Reasons and Removal of Travel Ban

Although UAE does not have a specific legislature for a travel ban, foreign expatriates can still face travel bans on several grounds which is broadly classified under following groups along with a procedure to remove the ban, subject to the discretion of UAE government:

i.                     Violation of laws of Immigration

Under the laws of Immigration, an expat a face travel ban on several grounds such as:

·         If a person is employed without a valid work permit;

·        Illegally entering into the country;

·         Overstay on the visa;

·         Resigning the job without updating the employer or leaving the country without cancelling work permit.

Procedure for removal

The bans are issued automatically by a competent authority and can be extended for a lifetime. This ban can be imposed if requested by one party like the employer, and the competent authority declares the employee as absconding and imposes a permanent travel ban. The accused can submit an application before the immigration authority for removal of the travel ban. However, it is advised to seek legal representation from Criminal Lawyers in Dubai for removal of such ban.

Outstanding debt

In case of unpaid debt, the creditor is empowered under Article 329 and 330 of the UAE Civil Procedure Code, through which he can submit a request before the competent court to prohibit the debtor from travelling when there is a strong apprehension that the debtor will abscond from the country without paying the debt which will frustrate the whole proceedings. Therefore, the request for the ban is to recover the outstanding payments. However, the ban ceases to exist if the debt is repaid.

Procedure for Removal

The ban is imposed upon the request of the creditor. However, there are certain conditions and perquisites which the creditor must consider prior to submitting a written request for travel ban as outlined in Article 329 of the Civil Code as follows:

·         The creditor must prove beyond any doubt that the debtor will abscond;

·         The amount of debt exceeds AED 10,000;

·         The debt should be of definite amount;

·         If the debt amount is not clear, then the judge is authorized to analyze the debt on the basis of written evidence and the guarantee submitted by the creditor to cover the damages.

Under the preceding circumstances, the debtor can apply to the court to object the travel ban by filing a complaint before a higher judge. Also, the ban can be removed in some instances as follows:

·         If a creditor takes back the application;

·         If debtor submits a bank guarantee;

·         If debtor repays the claim in the court or to the creditor.

iii.                 Criminal offence

An automatic travel ban is imposed on the person if he is charged with a criminal offence or has violated any provision of the criminal law. It can also be imposed in civil or commercial transactions such as cheques bounce.

A ban in a criminal offence remains into force until the period of investigation, trial and judgment of the criminal case. In such circumstances, the accused can submit a complaint before the competent court and can request a bail, however, it is pertinent to note that under a travel ban of criminal offence, the accused can submit application for bail and can be released from the police custody, however, will not be allowed to travel until the final judgment.

iv.                 Personal Status law

In accordance with the Federal Law Number 28 of 2005 concerning the Personal Status Law, the guardian can request the court to impose a travel ban on the child/children as a consequence of which the fosterer will not be able to travel outside the country without the written consent of the guardian. However, if the party fails to seek prior approval must justify before the court the reasons behind the travel. 

The procedure for this travel ban is completed within 24 hours from the time of applying. In such circumstances, the relevant parent can apply for the removal of the travel ban on the child with strong reasons. Thus, it is always advised to seek legal representations to convince the court for such motion.

Careful Comparison between Deportation and Travel Ban

One of the most significant differences between the travel ban and deportation is the interest of the parties wherein; travel ban is imposed to protect the individual interest, whereas, deportation is imposed in the interest of the public at large. The annulment of a deportation order is though difficult, however, not impossible as under Article 132 of the UAE Penal Code, the deportation order can be lifted upon the request of the relevant authority.

Another issue which has been resolved by the Civil Procedure Law is regarding a situation in which a person having a deportation order holds a travel ban as well. In such cases, an ad hoc committee will be established which will decide the merit of the case. Also, if sufficient evidence for his outstanding dues has been submitted, the deportation order might be put on hold.

In any case, if you have a suspicion that a travel ban has been imposed on you in UAE, it is advisable to contact a Best Lawyers of Dubai and to conduct a check on your legal status before visiting UAE. 

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Uae: new system to automatically lift travel ban, release frozen bank funds after payment of dues, it ensures the process is carried out smoothly without the intervention of enforcement officers and judges.

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A first-of-its-kind system in the UAE and the region now instantly tracks all judicial enforcement decisions and cancels them after the required payment of dues.

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has adopted a new system that tracks the payment status, and once the respondent has completed the payment, it cancels the original decision. After electronic approval, this is then forwarded to the relevant authorities.

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This new system ensures that individuals don't have to go through the hassle of gathering documents related to proof of payment and cancellation. This also makes sure the process is carried out smoothly without the intervention of enforcement officers and judges.

In the case of travel bans being imposed due to non-payment, respondents can download a copy of the cancellation decision through the smart app. They can then proceed with travel procedures and show the soft copy if required.

On the other hand, in cases of arrest warrant being issued due to non-payment or any seizure orders on deposits and bank accounts due to failure of payment of a certain amount, the respondent can present the physical copy of the cancellation to proceed with lifting the imposed decision.

This new system also automatically notifies judges and officers through the internally built digital system, along with updates about follow-ups and monitoring on the respondent's case.

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The Debt Panel: 'My lender is threatening a travel ban over my Dh105,000 liabilities'

The oil and gas employee fears he will lose his job if the ban goes ahead.

Illustration by Alvaro Sanmarti

I have three debts with three banks and one bank’s collections department is always harassing me. They want to file a case against me and tell me they will deposit my security cheque. I have been in Dubai for four years and was on good terms with the bank until January when my minimum payments became more than my monthly salary. This meant I could no longer make payments. My debts are:

Total outstanding / monthly payment

Credit card - Dh30,000 / not paid the minimum of Dh3,000 for six months (however made a payment of Dh2,500 in June)

Credit card – Dh10,000 / not paid the minimum of Dh500 for three months

Loan - Dh65,000 / Dh2,300

Total debt: Dh105,000

A few weeks ago I sought legal advice from a consultancy. They told me not to make any payments while I wait for their final comments. I also tried to get a personal loan from other UAE banks to close the cards, but all my applications were declined.

Bank 1 has been calling my home in India and my office here with a bad attitude since January. I asked the bank to convert my outstanding EMI into lower amounts to make the payments easier but they will not do that. They have asked me to make a payment of Dh5,200 soon or else they will submit the cheque. I took on the debt three years ago to pay rent and other bills, such as utility and phone demands in the UAE. All the money was spent here and the outstanding total is high due to interest.

I earn Dh6,300 in the oil and gas sector. I have to travel out of the UAE for my job and the bank is now threatening a traveI ban. If this happens I will 100 per cent lose my job. I was in living in Dubai on my own, but I now share in Sharjah to reduce costs. I am single but have to support my elderly parents. My expenses are: rent and food - Dh2,000, car and petrol - Dh1,500, loan payment - Dh2,300, utility and other expenses - Dh1,000 to Dh2,000. For the last two years, I have not received a pay rise or any bonuses due to slow business conditions.  This month I saved Dh1 after all my expenses, so how can I make these payments?  RK, Sharjah

Debt Panellist 1: Philip King, head of retail banking at Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank

If you are failing to meet the minimum repayments on your card debt, it is not surprising the bank is in regular contact to try and recover what you owe them. You have built up significant debt using cards with an ambition to only pay off the minimum amount each month. You will therefore be paying a high rate on the outstanding balance without making any significant headway in terms of clearing the total debt.

You should try to find ways to budget and control your living costs as currently you have no savings at the end of each month, nor means to increase the size of your repayments. The focus needs to be to lower your ‘other expenses’ until you reach financial stability, as well as making small savings on food and petrol costs, where possible. Over time, discipline across your monthly spending can amount to a large saving. You are also basing financial planning on circumstances outside of your control, such as the expectation that you will get a bonus in the future, which is a common mistake.

It doesn’t appear that you any legal standing to forfeit your repayments. Your best option is to meet with the banks holding your credit card debt and request a consolidation loan. You will need to present a clear plan for how you can afford to repay what you owe, and commit to meeting this repayment schedule to rebuild trust with the banks, who will naturally be worried that you are travelling and may abscond. A priority should be to control your living expenses so that you have funds to repay your debts every month.

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Debt panellist 2:   Keren Bobker, an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets

The relationship with any bank will go sour if someone does not make the repayments they agreed to. As you have not made repayments to at least two of the banks for more than three months, it does not surprise me that they are not calling you to request payment. You will be aware that non-payment of debt is a criminal offence in the UAE and if a person fails to make three payments on a loan then a bank has the right to register a police case. It is not unusual to request a travel ban to prevent someone from absconding in order to try and escape their debts and consequences,  so this is a real possibility.

I note that you borrowed money to pay daily expenses, but that will never be a sustainable situation. Borrowing to support a lifestyle, even with a low salary, is never going to end well and I wonder how you thought you would be able to repay what you have borrowed. Indeed, I am curious as to how you borrowed so much on your income, as you advise that your minimum monthly repayments on all three debts are Dh5,800, 92 per cent of earnings, and this is far in excess of the Central Bank of the UAE limits. Even with interest added and possibly penalties for non-payment your actual borrowings are too high. How did you think you would be able to repay these debts on your income? Borrowing yet more money to repay existing debts is a terrible idea and you were quite rightly declined.

You say that you are in discussions with a ‘consultancy’ and that they have advised you not to make any further payments until they come back to you. This is terrible advice as you will only be in a worse situation with the banks. The only way to stall the banks in taking further action is to make payments.

At this level of debt, in comparison to income, the options are few as the banks are unlikely to be amenable once a person has already missed various payments. I note that you have reduced your outgoings but you still have outgoings that exceed your income. Are you able to reduce your costs any further? The only way to live sensibly is by doing so within your means. You have to find ways of reducing your outgoings so you can start repaying the money that you owe. Even if the lenders agree to reschedule, the money must still be repaid.

Do you have any assets in India that can be sold to repay part of what you owe? Do you have any family members that are able, and willing, to assist? Can other family members support your parents for a while so that you can focus on repaying debts? Unless steps are taken, this could all end very badly and you will have no ability to support your parents. Sadly, without taking drastic steps and getting some outside support, your options are very limited at this time.

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Debt panellist 3: Steve Cronin, founder of  DeadSimpleSaving.com , which helps residents invest their own money

Your loan repayment is using up all your monthly salary above your expenses, so you have nothing left to pay your cards off or create a buffer for further problems. My recommendations are the following:

1. Keep paying your loan and credit cards as much as possible - not making the minimum payment or any kind of payment is triggering all these issues with banks. Waiting for the consultancy may lead to a bank cashing your cheque.

2. Maintain frequent dialogue with your banks. Ideally you should get a consolidation loan that wraps your credit card debt. What is the reason for the banks rejecting you and can you fix that?

3. If you can demonstrate that the balance on your card is mostly interest-on-interest  - and you have already paid off the original borrowed amounts one or more times over - then you may have a legal case, but this a slow and costly process.

4. Ask your employer for extra work or a company loan. Start looking for other, better-paid jobs, even in other sectors or find other sources of work and non-work income, including selling assets.

5. Find ways to reduce your living expenses, even if it means being uncomfortable for a year or so. Will your company contribute towards your car expenses or provide a company car?

6. Can a family friend support your parents for a bit or provide a loan at a cheaper rate to allow you to get your head above water again?

The Debt Panel is a weekly column to help readers tackle their debts more effectively. If you have a question for the panel, write to [email protected]

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Storm pounds desert nation of United Arab Emirates, floods Dubai airport

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The desert nation of the United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Wednesday from the heaviest rain ever recorded there after a deluge flooded Dubai International Airport, disrupting flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel.

The state-run WAM news agency called the rain Tuesday “a historic weather event” that surpassed “anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949.” That’s before the discovery of crude oil in this energy-rich nation, which was then part of a British protectorate known as the Trucial States.

Rain also fell in Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. However, the rains were acute across the UAE.

One possible contributor may have been “cloud seeding,” in which small planes operated by the government fly through clouds burning special salt flares. Those flares can increase precipitation.

Several reports quoted meteorologists at the National Center for Meteorology as saying they flew six or seven cloud-seeding flights before the rains. Flight-tracking data analyzed by the Associated Press showed one aircraft affiliated with the UAE’s cloud-seeding efforts flew around the country Monday.

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The National, an English-language, state-linked newspaper in Abu Dhabi, quoted an anonymous official at the center on Wednesday as saying no cloud seeding took place on Tuesday, without acknowledging any earlier flights.

The center did not respond to questions Wednesday from the AP.

The UAE, which heavily relies on energy-hungry desalination plants to provide water, conducts cloud seeding in part to increase its dwindling, limited groundwater.

Scientists also say climate change in general is responsible for more intense and more frequent extreme storms, droughts, floods and wildfires around the world. Dubai hosted the United Nations’ COP28 climate talks just last year. Rising temperatures and other effects of global warming long have been viewed as a threat to life in the already-baking region.

The rains began late Monday, soaking the sands and roadways of Dubai with some 0.79 inches of rain, according to meteorological data collected at Dubai International Airport. The storms intensified around 9 a.m. local Tuesday and continued throughout the day, dumping more rain and hail onto the overwhelmed city.

By the end of Tuesday, more than 5.59 inches of rainfall had soaked Dubai over 24 hours. An average year sees 3.73 inches of rain at Dubai International Airport, a hub for the long-haul carrier Emirates.

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At the airport, standing water lapped on taxiways as aircraft landed. Arrivals were halted Tuesday night, and passengers struggled to reach terminals through the floodwater covering surrounding roads.

One couple, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity to speak freely in a country with strict laws that criminalize critical speech, called the situation at the airport “absolute carnage.”

“You cannot get a taxi. There’s people sleeping in the Metro station. There’s people sleeping in the airport,” the man said Wednesday.

They ended up getting a taxi to near their home some 18 miles away, but floodwater on the road stopped them. A bystander helped them over a highway barrier with their carry-on luggage, the bottles of gin they picked up from duty-free clinking away.

Dubai International Airport acknowledged Wednesday morning that the flooding had left “limited transportation options” and affected flights as aircraft crews couldn’t reach the airfield.

“Recovery will take some time,” the airport said on the social platform X.

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Emirates said the airline had halted check-in for passengers departing from Dubai itself from 8 a.m. until midnight Wednesday as it tried to clear the airport of transit passengers — many of whom had been sleeping where they could in its cavernous terminals.

Passengers on FlyDubai, Emirates’ low-cost sister airline, also faced disruptions.

Paul Griffiths, the airport’s CEO, acknowledged continued issues with flooding Wednesday morning, saying every place an aircraft could be safely parked was taken. Some aircraft had been diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, the city-state’s second airfield.

“It remains an incredibly challenging time. In living memory, I don’t think anyone has ever seen conditions like it,” Griffiths told the state-owned talk radio station Dubai Eye. “We are in uncharted territory, but I can assure everyone we are working as hard as we possibly can to make sure our customers and staff are looked after.”

Egypt’s national carrier, EgyptAir, also temporarily suspended flights between Cairo and Dubai due to the bad weather.

Schools across the UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms, largely shut ahead of the storm and government employees were largely working remotely if able. Many workers stayed home as well, though some ventured out, with the unfortunate stalling out their vehicles in deeper-than-expected water covering spots on some roads. That included parts of the Sheikh Zayed Road, a 12-lane highway through downtown Dubai.

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Authorities sent tanker trucks out into the streets and highways to pump away the water. Water poured into some homes, forcing people to bail out their houses.

The country’s hereditary rulers offered no overall damage or injury information for the nation, as some slept in their flooded vehicles Tuesday night. In Ras al-Khaimah, the country’s northernmost emirate, police said one 70-year-old man died when his vehicle was swept away by floodwater.

Khatm al-Shakla, an area near Al Ain in Abu Dhabi, saw 10 inches of rain Tuesday, the most anywhere in the country, officials said.

Authorities canceled school and the government instituted remote work again for Wednesday. Dubai later closed schools for the rest of the week.

Rain is unusual in the UAE, an arid, Arabian Peninsula nation, but occurs periodically during the cooler winter months. Many roads and other areas lack drainage given the lack of regular rainfall, causing flooding.

Meanwhile, in neighboring Oman, a sultanate that rests on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, at least 19 people were killed in heavy rains in recent days, according to a statement Wednesday from the country’s National Committee for Emergency Management. That includes some 10 schoolchildren swept away in a vehicle with an adult, which saw condolences come into the country from rulers across the region.

Gambrell writes for the Associated Press. AP writer Samy Magdy in Cairo contributed to this report.

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Iran Attack on Israel Adds to Airline Troubles in Middle East

FILE PHOTO: A graphical representation of air traffic shows airspace over Iran and the neighbouring Middle East at 0000 GMT, April 14, 2024. Flightradar24.Com/Handout via REUTERS/File Photo

By Joe Brock

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Global airlines faced disruptions to flights on Monday after Iran's missile and drone attacks on Israel further narrowed options for planes navigating between Europe and Asia.

Iran's attack on Israel by more than 300 missiles and drones, which were mostly shot down by Israel's U.S.-backed missile defence system, caused chaos in the aviation industry.

War in Israel and Gaza

At least a dozen airlines have had to cancel or reroute flights over the last two days, including Qantas, Germany's Lufthansa, United Airlines and Air India.

This was the biggest single disruption to air travel since the attack on the World Trade Centre on September 11, 2001, according to Mark Zee, founder of OPSGROUP, which monitors airspace and airports.

"Not since then have we had a situation with that many different air spaces closed down in that quick succession, and that creates chaos," Zee told Reuters, adding that disruptions were likely to last a couple more days.

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The latest routing problems are a blow to an industry already facing a host of restrictions due to conflicts between Israel and Hamas, and Russia and Ukraine.

Iran's airspace is used by airlines travelling between Europe and Asia and those carriers will be restricted to two viable alternative routes, either through Turkey or via Egypt and Saudi Arabia, Zee said.

Israel closed its airspace on Saturday, before reopening them on Sunday morning. Jordan, Iraq and Lebanon also resumed flights over their territories.

Major Middle East airlines, including Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways, said on Sunday they would resume operation in the region after cancelling or rerouting some flights.

It was not yet clear if the latest unrest would impact passenger demand, which has remained robust despite ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, said Brendan Sobie, independent aviation analyst.

"If the political situation and the conflicts continue to escalate then at some point people will be concerned about travelling, but so far that hasn't happened," Sobie said.

(Reporting by Joe Brock; Editing by Lincoln Feast.)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Five Labor MPs call for wholesale changes to their government's migration bill

Three federal Labor MPs and two Labor senators have joined calls for large chunks of their own government's migration bill to be scrapped.

They say the bill, which would broaden the immigration minister's powers to force deportations, limits "numerous" human rights.

The comments were made by the parliament's human rights committee, which is tasked with scrutinising all bills to assess compatibility with Australia's human rights obligations.

Labor has the casting vote on the committee and five of its 10 members: committee chair Josh Burns, Alicia Payne, Graham Perrett and senators Karen Grogan and Jana Stewart.

The committee said the government should not impose mandatory prison sentences on people who do not comply with deportation orders, one of several amendments it called for.

The bill is before the Senate, where it is separately being considered by a committee of senators.

That committee on Monday heard personal testimonies from people who feared deportation and calls from several human rights organisations to abandon the bill entirely.

What is the bill?

The bill would give the immigration minister new powers to force the hand of people who are difficult to deport.

The minister could issue legally-enforceable directions, for example, requiring somebody to apply for a passport in their country of origin against their wishes.

Failure to comply would attract a minimum prison sentence of one year, and up to five years.

The bill's main target is a small cohort of non-citizens who have no legal right to remain in Australia, but who are refusing to comply with deportation and come from countries that do not accept involuntary returns, such as Iran.

The case of one such Iranian man, known as ASF17, was heard in the High Court on Wednesday.

The government wants to pass the legislation so that it has extra tools at its disposal if the High Court finds in favour of ASF17. Officials have said about 150 others may be in a similar position.

But the bill goes further than those 150. It also includes a cohort of about 10,000 non-citizens living in the community whose refugee claims were rejected in a 'fast tracked' assessment process the UN has called "defective".

And as drafted, the powers could be extended to any visa category, including tourists, students and refugees.

The bill would also allow the minister to reverse refugee assessments, and to impose travel bans on countries if they refuse to facilitate deportations.

In March, the government tried to pass the bill through parliament in 24 hours, but the Coalition and the Greens voted together to refer it for more detailed consideration.

'Disproportionate punishment'

The parliamentary human rights committee only has the scope to assess a bill against Australia's human rights obligations.

It said the bill restricted those rights in several respects.

It found the mandatory minimum sentencing power was incompatible with the rights to liberty and a fair trial, and should be scrapped.

"Mandatory sentencing removes judicial discretion to take into account all of the relevant circumstances of a particular case and may lead to the imposition of disproportionate or unduly harsh sentences of imprisonment," the report read.

The committee said there was a risk of "arbitrary detention".

"Were a person to breach [the minister's] direction by, for example, failing to fill in a passport application form in time, it may be that a mandatory sentence of one year in prison is a disproportionate punishment."

It also said the bill should be restricted to a tightly-limited cohort of non-citizens who are actively involved in deportation efforts, rather than potentially to any visa holder.

And it said the scope of orders that the minister could give should be restricted, noting the current draft captured a "very broad range of conduct" and could be used to stop someone from attending a political protest or making a public statement, infringing the rights of free expression and association.

The committee determined the travel ban power largely fell outside its scope, since it is responsible for assessing human rights protections of people within Australia, and that power would largely affect people outside Australia.

But it noted it had the potential to disproportionately affect Australians of the same nationality as any banned country and recommended that travel bans be time limited.

The committee was satisfied the bill could be passed if these amendments were made.

But in additional comments, independent Senator Lidia Thorpe said it should be abandoned entirely.

The three Coalition committee members published additional comments noting the "extensive concerns" and expressing "alarm with the rushed process originally proposed by the government."

The House of Representatives has already passed the bill in its current form, where the Coalition voted in favour. The bill is likely to pass the Senate with the support of both major parties.

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