The United Arab Emirates has reportedly barred all Iranian passport holders from entering or transiting through Dubai, including individuals holding valid residency, tourist and visit visas, in a sweeping move that could disrupt longstanding economic ties.
According to a notice published by Flydubai and cited by Iran International, the measure took effect on March 31 and applies to all Iranian nationals without exception. The restriction reportedly also prevents Iranian residents currently abroad from returning to the UAE, regardless of their legal status.
Reports indicate that some Iranian residents still inside the country have been issued notices to leave within 30 days.
Ali Shariati, a member of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, said the move effectively cancels the residency status of Iranians outside the UAE and places those inside under pressure to depart. He warned that many affected individuals may lose access to property, financial assets and bank accounts.
Many Iranian nationals in the UAE obtained residency through property investments ranging from 500,000 to 1.5 million dirhams, or through business ownership and company registration.
Shariati said the UAE’s approach has created legal uncertainty, noting authorities have used the term “cancelled” rather than “banned” or “confiscated,” leaving thousands in what he described as a legal limbo. He estimated total Iranian capital in the UAE at approximately 500 billion dirhams.
The reported measures may also extend beyond Iranian passport holders. According to Shariati, individuals born in Iran could be affected even if they hold European or other foreign passports.
Dubai has long served as a critical commercial and transit hub for Iranian nationals, particularly amid decades of international sanctions on Tehran. The emirate hosts a large Iranian expatriate community with deep financial and business interests, especially in real estate and trade.
As of now, UAE authorities have not issued an official public statement confirming or explaining the reported restrictions, adding to uncertainty among those affected.