Lost your passport abroad? You can return to the UAE without it if you have this visa

Dubai: You’re in the middle of a vacation, your phone camera is full of photographs, you’re in complete ‘tourist mode’… and then you realise your passport has gone missing. For most travellers, that moment can create immediate dread and panic. But Golden Visa holders have an added layer of support. The UAE authorities have ensured they can return home even without their travel document. Here’s what you need to know about this unique and convenient facility. Does UAE offer emergency support for lost passports abroad? Since October 14, 2025, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) have introduced an emergency and crisis support service for Golden Visa holders, which includes 24/7 crisis assistance and a dedicated hotline for urgent inquiries. As part of these services, Golden Visa holders who lose their passport in other countries can return to the UAE safely, without their passport, and reapply for it once they’re back home. All they require is a ‘return document’. Imran Khan, managing director at I K Lawyers, explained how it works: “According to the rule, Golden Visa holders who lose their passport while outside the UAE may apply for a return document through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ online services, using their UAE PASS. The return document is issued electronically, is valid for a single entry, and expires seven days after issuance. Upon returning to the UAE, the individual should obtain a new passport from their home country’s embassy or consulate and update their residency records with the UAE authorities.” The same process applies if you have lost your passport in your home country. Khan explained: “The Golden Visa-holder’s home country must replace a lost passport through its passport office, embassy or consulate. The UAE embassy in that country or authorities do not issue a replacement foreign passport, but can update the Golden Visa details on the newly issued passport and assist with the relevant immigration procedures for re-entry into the UAE.” Eligibility criteria for emergency return document The return document offers Golden Visa-holders emergency entry back into the UAE, but is valid upon certain conditions: The applicant must hold a valid UAE Golden Visa. Applicants can also apply for a return document on behalf of dependent children under the age of 18. The return document is valid for single use only. Travellers must use it within seven days of issuance. The document cannot replace the traveller’s passport; it is intended for travel back to the UAE only. Documents required The following documents are required when applying for a return document, according to MOFA: Copy of the lost or damaged passport. Copy of the police report for the lost or damaged passport. Recent personal photo with a white background only. A copy of the return ticket to the UAE. How to apply for a return document You can request a return document online, via the MOFA portal. Here are the steps to follow: Visit MOFA’s website, at mofa.gov.ae, and navigate to the ‘Services’ section. Select the Golden Visa-holders category. Sign in with your UAE PASS. Select ‘Services for Golden Visa Holders’ and click ‘Return Documents’. Select the reason for the service, and click ‘Start Service’. Complete the form and upload the required documents. Click ‘Submit’. The return document will be sent to your registered email address.