Several significant policies are being updated across the banking, aviation, education, and immigration sectors in Dubai, starting from April, 2026. While many of these updates were previously announced, this month's formal implementation makes it vital for residents and international travelers, particularly those from India, to take note of the new requirements.
Digital Banking: The Shift From SMS OTPs
The first major change is in digital transaction process. The UAE Central Bank is spearheading major security overhaul as traditional OTP (One Time Passwords) sent via message or email are being phased out in the favour of app-based authetication.
The Change: Users must now approve transactions directly through their bank’s mobile application.
Impact On Travelers: Indian travelers and expats must ensure their banking apps are updated and fully functional before traveling, as text-based codes will no longer be an option for payment verification.
Education: Return To Campus
Dubai's educational institutions are now planing to return to their standerd schedules following a period of remote learning.
Timeline: According to Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), private schools and univercities will conclude their distance learning by Friday, April 3.
Result: All students will be required to return to in-person classes starting from the following week.
Aviation: Restoration Of Flight Schedules
Due to the regional conflict, operations for Dubai-based airlines were disrupted; however, international carriers are now preparing to resume full-scale operations at Dubai International Airport.
Travel Connectivity: With over 2.4 million Indians visiting Dubai in 2025, the restoration of these flights is critical for both tourism and business connectivity.
Advice: While services are expected to stabilise in early April, passengers are encouraged to verify schedules directly with their airlines before heading to the airport.
Residency: Re-entry Grace Period Ends
A critical temporary immigration rule is set to expire, returning Dubai to its standard residency protocols.
The Deadline: The special provision allowing residents with expired permits to enter the UAE without a new entry permit concludes on March 31.
The New Rule: Effective April 1, all travelers must adhere to standard residency and entry permit requirements. Affected individuals should use this final window to regularise their status and avoid legal complications.