Khaleej Times has reached out to the Federal Authority For Identity and Citizenship for a clarification.

Some passengers with UAE entry visas that were issued prior to March 17 have said they are not being allowed to enter the UAE, Khaleej Times has learnt. As per the announcement made by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) earlier, the entry visa suspension did not apply to visas issued before March 17.

However, even such visas are deemed cancelled, travel agents have said. Khaleej Times has reached out to the FAIC for a clarification.

"My 72-year-old mother left for Abu Dhabi from Kochi (Kerala). Unfortunately, it was only after she boarded the flight that our travel agent in Abu Dhabi said her visit visa issued on (March 16) is auto-cancelled. The visa was issued from here. When we checked the status of her visa online, it says 'cancelled'," Abu Dhabi-based resident Julie said.

When KT dialled up the Abu Dhabi International Airport customer services team, a duty officer confirmed the temporary suspension on issuance of all entry visas. "All visas are cancelled for those abroad from today (March 17). All visas issued before today will also be cancelled - even new residency visas. Only those with existing residency visas can enter the country."

Another official from the visa department at the airport said the new rule was implemented from Tuesday, March 17.

As at 9.45pm on Tuesday, the Dubai Airports 'alerts' section still says the suspension does not apply to visas issued prior to March 17.

ashwani@khaleejtimes.com