In the UAE, unpaid debts—especially credit card dues—can result in serious consequences, including a travel ban. Many expatriates and residents only discover this restriction when attempting to leave the country or re-enter. If you are facing such a situation, understanding the legal steps to remove a travel ban is crucial.
Why Does a Travel Ban Happen for Credit Card Debt?
Banks in the UAE treat unpaid credit card dues as a financial crime when payments are overdue for long periods. If repayment is not settled, the bank may:
- File a police complaint against the debtor.
- Initiate a civil claim in court.
- Request the issuance of a travel ban to prevent the individual from leaving the country until the matter is resolved.
This ensures that debtors remain within UAE jurisdiction while financial disputes are settled.
Legal Steps to Remove a Travel Ban
Verify the Travel Ban:
The first step is to confirm whether a travel ban has actually been issued. This can be checked with Dubai Police or through a lawyer.
Negotiate with the Bank:
Often, settlements can be reached directly with the bank. This may include restructuring payments, partial settlement, or clearing the outstanding balance.
Obtain a Clearance Letter:
Once payment or settlement is made, the bank issues a clearance letter. This letter is critical for lifting the travel ban.
Approach the Court or Police Station:
The clearance letter must be presented to the court or police station where the case was filed. Legal representation can fast-track this process.
File for Travel Ban Removal:
A formal request is made to lift the travel ban. The approval may take several days to weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and the authority involved.
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Why Legal Assistance is Important
While the steps may seem straightforward, delays often occur due to paperwork, lack of clarity, or disputes with the bank. Having an experienced lawyer ensures the process is handled efficiently, minimizing stress and saving valuable time.
How Adv. Sanafer Arakkal of Concept Advocates Helps
Adv. Sanafer Arakkal, founder of Concept Advocates, has extensive experience in debt-related cases and travel ban removals in the UAE. His assistance includes:
- Case Assessment – Reviewing the debt situation and identifying the fastest legal route to lift the ban.
- Negotiating with Banks – Using his expertise to reach practical settlements that favor clients.
- Handling Documentation – Ensuring clearance letters and court submissions are properly managed.
- Efficient Representation – Liaising with police, prosecutors, and courts to expedite the removal of the travel ban.
Final Thoughts
A travel ban due to unpaid credit cards is stressful, but it is not permanent. With the right approach—settling dues, obtaining clearance, and filing the proper legal applications—you can resolve the matter.
With the support of Adv. Sanafer Arakkal and Concept Advocates, individuals can handle these cases quickly and professionally, ensuring their freedom of movement is restored without unnecessary delays.
