How to Apply for Travel Ban in UAE 2026

Quick answer

A travel ban in the UAE is not something you apply for yourself. It is usually placed by a court, police, or creditor after a legal dispute. You can request a ban only in specific situations, such as a debt or criminal case, through the right authority. To check or request one, you must file a formal application with the police, public prosecution, or civil court depending on the reason. Fees start from AED 300 and processing takes 3-10 working days.

Why would you need a travel ban?

Most expats ask about travel bans when they are owed money or involved in a dispute. A ban stops the other person from leaving the country until the issue is resolved. Common reasons include unpaid rent, bounced cheques, loan defaults, or criminal complaints. The ban is enforced through immigration systems at airports and land borders.

Who can place a travel ban?

Only certain authorities can issue or lift a travel ban. These include:

• Police stations under the relevant emirate (Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police, Sharjah Police)
• Public Prosecution offices
• Civil courts via execution judges
• Federal courts for criminal cases

Private individuals or companies cannot place a ban directly. You must file a case first.

Step-by-step: how to request a travel ban

Step 1: Gather your documents

Prepare your Emirates ID, passport copy, proof of the debt or complaint, and any court documents. If you are a company, you need a trade licence and power of attorney.

Step 2: File a police report or court case

Visit the nearest police station or go to the public prosecution. For financial disputes, file a civil claim at the execution court. You will receive a case number.

Step 3: Submit the travel ban request

Once the case is registered, ask the case officer or judge to add a travel ban. In Dubai, this is often done through the Dubai Courts e-services portal. In Abu Dhabi, use the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department portal.

Step 4: Pay the fees

Expect to pay AED 300-500 for the ban request. Court filing fees vary and may reach AED 1,000 or more. Always verify current fee with the relevant court or police station.

Step 5: Wait for confirmation

Processing takes 3-10 working days. You will receive an SMS or email when the ban is active. The other person will be stopped at any UAE exit point.

Common mistakes expats make

• Thinking you can place a ban without filing a case first
• Using the wrong authority (for example, going to Dubai Police for an Abu Dhabi case)
• Forgetting to renew the ban if the case drags on
• Not checking if the ban was actually registered before the person travels

Cost comparison across emirates

Fees are broadly similar but procedures differ slightly. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have the most online portals. Sharjah and Ajman still require more in-person visits. Always confirm exact amounts with the local court or police because fees can change yearly.

Tips for a smooth process

• Keep all original documents and court numbers in one folder
• Use the official government apps (Dubai Now, Abu Dhabi Government) to track your case
• If the person has already left, ask about an Interpol red notice instead
• Consider hiring a lawyer if the amount is over AED 50,000

How to check if a travel ban exists

You can verify any active ban on yourself or someone else through the GDRFA or ICP portals. In Dubai, use the Dubai Courts website. In Abu Dhabi, use the ADJD e-services. You will need the person’s Emirates ID number or passport number. Results appear instantly in most cases.

Key takeaway

A travel ban is a legal tool, not a casual request. You must have an active case with police or courts before any authority will consider it. Start with the right documents, file through the correct emirate portal, and track the status online. When in doubt, speak to the public prosecution or a licensed lawyer before submitting anything.