Middle East: Severe Weather to Cause Immigration Processing Delays and Travel Disruptions

• Government office closures. Government offices in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman were or may still be closed or operating at non-full capacity.
• Travel impacts. Flights to and from various airports in the region, including Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport, have been cancelled or experience extensive delays due to operational challenges caused by inclement weather and road conditions. In various parts of the affected countries, roads have been damaged and many remain under water causing significant logistical problems and delays.

Foreign nationals should expect delays in the processing of their immigration applications and should be prepared to reschedule government office appointments, including for medical examination and biometric data collection. These delays are anticipated to continue in the coming days.

Travelers to and from the region are advised to check the latest flights schedules and be prepared for significant delays in their travels.

It is not clear how long it will take for government offices that are closed or operating at partial capacity to reopen fully, or for travel delays to subside. Affected travelers and employers should contact their immigration provider for specific advice.