The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi on Thursday issued an advisory for Indian nationals living in the UAE, urging them to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities.

In its advisory, the embassy said that all Indian nationals currently in the UAE should remain calm, stay alert, and adhere to the safety guidelines of the UAE authorities, while also keeping track of official updates issued from time to time.

The UAE is home to more than 4.3 million Indian expatriates, making Indians the largest expatriate community in the country.

Airspace restrictions

The mission noted that airspace restrictions and temporary suspension of regular scheduled flights remain in place due to the exceptional circumstances affecting the region.

However, stranded Indian nationals can avail themselves of limited non-scheduled flight services currently operating between the UAE and India.

According to the embassy, Indian and UAE airlines are operating special flights to multiple destinations in India, subject to operational and safety approvals from relevant authorities.

The advisory also reminded stranded travellers about the waiver of overstay fines announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.

Several stranded Indian nationals have already returned home on these special flights, with many praising the assistance provided during the disruption.

Embassy operations continue

The embassy confirmed that its services continue to operate normally.

“The Government of India attaches the highest importance to the safety and well-being of Indians abroad and is monitoring developments at the highest level,” the mission said.

The Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai remain in close contact with UAE authorities and community leaders to support the Indian diaspora.

Helpline for Indians

Indian nationals in the UAE seeking assistance can contact the embassy through the following 24/7 helplines:

• Toll-free: 800-46342
• WhatsApp: +971 543090571

Dubai Police has issued a warning to the public against the use, possession, or trading of fireworks and firecrackers, stressing the dangers they pose to lives, property, and community safety.

In a social media post, the police urged residents to avoid illegal fireworks and reminded them that violators will face legal consequences under UAE law.

Authorities called on the public to report any incidents involving the possession, use, or sale of fireworks by contacting the 901 Call Centre. Officials noted that trading fireworks without a licence can result in up to one year in prison and a fine of up to Dh100,000.

Safety reminder to residents

In another message shared online, Dubai Police urged residents to act responsibly when it comes to fireworks.

“Fireworks may sparkle for seconds, but the consequences can last forever. Choose safety, choose responsibility. Protect yourself and the ones you love with one conscious decision,” the police said.

The warning comes amid ongoing enforcement efforts across the UAE to combat the illegal trade and misuse of fireworks.

Major seizure of illegal fireworks in Sharjah

Recently, Sharjah Police arrested a man who was found in possession of 18,670 illegal fireworks.

Police said the suspect was also using his vehicle to promote the sale of fireworks. The arrest followed careful monitoring by specialised police teams, who tracked the suspect before identifying the storage location.

After completing legal procedures, authorities confirmed the large quantity of fireworks stored illegally.

What UAE law says

Under Article 54 of Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019 on Weapons, Ammunition, Explosives, Military Material and Hazardous Substances, trading in illegal fireworks is considered a criminal offence in the UAE.

Anyone who imports, exports, manufactures, sells, or transports fireworks without a licence can face imprisonment for at least one year and a minimum fine of Dh100,000, or either penalty.

Authorities continue to urge residents to follow safety regulations and report illegal activities to help maintain public safety across the country.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security has announced a waiver of fines for travellers who were unable to leave the country on time due to exceptional circumstances that caused regional airspace closures and the suspension of several flights.

The authority said the decision applies to individuals whose departure was delayed because of factors beyond their control, including visitors on visit visas, tourist visas, or exit permits. It also covers residents who had cancelled their residency permits in preparation for leaving the country but were unable to travel due to flight disruptions.

According to the authority, the exemption covers all overstay fines incurred from February 28, 2026 onward, allowing affected travellers to regularise their legal status without incurring financial penalties linked to the unexpected travel disruptions.

Officials explained that the measure was introduced after many travellers were unable to depart on their scheduled dates because flights were either suspended or rescheduled during the airspace closures. The decision reflects the UAE’s humanitarian approach to handling emergencies and supporting visitors facing exceptional circumstances.

The authority added that specialised teams across the country’s airports and Customer Happiness Centres remain operational under emergency and business continuity plans. These teams are working closely with relevant authorities to assist travellers affected by delayed or rescheduled flights and to ensure that procedures are handled smoothly.

The UAE government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting travellers and visitors during difficult situations, highlighting the country’s values of tolerance, solidarity and humanitarian responsibility.

Officials also urged affected individuals to follow official government channels for the latest updates and any regulatory measures related to the situation. The authority stressed that it remains fully prepared to maintain service continuity and provide support to travellers under all conditions.