Planning to travel from the UAE but worried about potential legal restrictions? Understanding how to check if you have a travel ban can save you from unexpected disruptions at the airport. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s Estafser service provides a quick, official way to verify your legal status before booking flights.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about checking travel bans in Abu Dhabi using the Estafser platform, including recent updates to the service and alternative methods for residents in other emirates.
What is Estafser?
Estafser (meaning “Ask” in Arabic) is a free digital inquiry service provided by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD). The platform allows Abu Dhabi residents to check whether they have any pending legal cases, travel bans, or claims filed against them by the Public Prosecution.
According to official ADJD data, the service processed over 6,292 electronic inquiries in the first quarter of 2025 alone, with 97% of inquiries answered within one working day. This demonstrates how essential the platform has become for residents seeking peace of mind before travel.
What Can You Check Through Estafser?
The Estafser service enables you to verify:
- Active travel bans preventing you from leaving the UAE
- Pending criminal or civil cases
- Financial claims or disputes
- Public Prosecution inquiries
- Court case status and hearing dates
- Payment orders or enforcement actions
Understanding Travel Bans in the UAE
A travel ban is a legal restriction that prevents individuals from leaving the country until a specific matter is resolved. In the UAE, travel bans are typically imposed for the following reasons:
Financial Issues:
- Unpaid loans or credit card debts
- Bounced cheques
- Outstanding mortgage payments
- Unpaid rental disputes
Legal Matters:
- Pending criminal investigations
- Court cases requiring your presence
- Civil disputes with businesses or individuals
Immigration Violations:
- Visa overstays (beyond grace period)
- Documentation irregularities
- Sponsorship-related issues
The UAE Ministry of Justice has implemented the Zero Government Bureaucracy initiative, which means travel bans are now lifted automatically once the underlying cause is resolved and all dues are settled. However, this doesn’t eliminate the need to verify your status before traveling.
How to Check Travel Ban in Abu Dhabi Using Estafser (Step-by-Step Guide)
The process for checking your travel ban status through Estafser has been updated in recent years. Here’s the current method as of 2026:
Method 1: Through the ADJD Website
Step 1: Visit the official Abu Dhabi Judicial Department website’s Estafser service page: https://www.adjd.gov.ae/sites/eServices/EN/Pages/Estafser.aspx
Step 2: Enter your Unified Number (UID)
- Your UID can be found on your residence visa or Emirates ID
- It’s the number that links your visa and legal records in Abu Dhabi
Step 3: Complete the security verification (captcha code)
Step 4: Click “Search” to submit your inquiry
Step 5: View your results
- The system will display any active travel bans, pending cases, or legal restrictions
- If a travel ban exists, you’ll see the reason, case number, and relevant authority
- Results are typically provided instantly, though complex cases may take up to one working day
Method 2: Through the ADJD Mobile App
For those who prefer mobile access, you can also check your travel ban status through the ADJD smart app:
- Download the “Abu Dhabi Judicial Department” app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store
- Log in using your UAE Pass credentials
- Navigate to “Estafser” or “Inquiry Services”
- Enter your Unified Number (UID)
- Submit your inquiry and view results instantly
The mobile app provides the same functionality as the website and is available 24/7, making it convenient for last-minute checks before traveling.
Alternative Methods to Check Travel Bans in the UAE
While Estafser is specifically for Abu Dhabi residents, other emirates have their own systems:
For Dubai Residents: Dubai Police Service
Dubai residents can check for travel bans through the Dubai Police website or mobile app:
- Visit www.dubaipolice.gov.ae or download the Dubai Police app
- Search for “Circulars and Travel Bans” or “Criminal Status of Financial Cases”
- Enter your Emirates ID number
- Click “Search” to view any active travel bans or reports
This service is free and available 24/7 for Dubai residents.
Federal-Level Checks: ICP and MOI Services
For immigration-related travel restrictions that may apply across all emirates:
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP):
- Call: 600522222
- Use the ICP Smart Services app
- Check for immigration bans, visa status, and deportation orders
Ministry of Interior (MOI) App:
- Download the “MOI UAE” app
- Use your credentials to check for any legal restrictions or immigration holds
- Verify visa validity and potential cancellations
Other Emirates
Ras Al Khaimah:
- Visit rakdigital.rak.ae
- Select “RAK Courts” category
- Choose “General Inquiry” and “Case Inquiry – Civil Courts”
- Contact RAK Courts: 07/2070111 or 06/8035522
Sharjah and Other Emirates:
- Visit local police stations with your Emirates ID
- Contact the respective emirate’s judicial department
- Use the ICP services mentioned above for federal-level checks
Common Questions About Travel Ban Checks in the UAE
Can I Check Travel Ban Status by Passport Number?
No, you cannot check for travel bans using only your passport number in Abu Dhabi. The Estafser service requires your Unified Number (UID), which is linked to your UAE residence visa. For Dubai, you need your Emirates ID number.
However, you can use your passport number to check visa status and validity through the ICP Smart Services and GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) portals.
What Should I Do If Estafser Shows a Travel Ban?
If the Estafser service indicates you have an active travel ban, take the following steps:
Review the details carefully: Note the case number, reason for the ban, and the authority that imposed it
Contact the relevant authority: For financial cases: Contact your bank or creditor to arrange payment
For court cases: Contact the court listed in the case details
For Public Prosecution cases: Visit or call the Public Prosecution office
Seek legal assistance: Consider consulting a legal professional experienced in UAE law who can: Review your case documents
Negotiate with creditors or opposing parties
Represent you in court if necessary
File motions to lift the ban once issues are resolved
Settle outstanding obligations: Pay any debts, fines, or fulfil court requirements promptly
Verify ban removal: After resolving the issue, use Estafser again to confirm the travel ban has been lifted before booking travel
Is the Estafser Service Free?
Yes, checking for travel bans through Estafser is completely free. All ADJD online services, including Estafser, are provided at no cost to users. The only expenses you might incur are if you choose to hire a lawyer or legal consultant to help resolve any issues discovered.
What Happens If You Travel with an Active Ban?
Attempting to leave the UAE with an active travel ban can result in:
- Being stopped at immigration and denied boarding
- Detention at the airport until the matter is resolved
- Additional legal complications
- Inability to renew your residence visa
- Potential visa cancellation in severe cases
This is why checking your status through Estafser before making any travel arrangements is crucial. Many expatriates learn about travel bans only when they arrive at the airport to depart, leading to missed flights, financial losses, and significant stress.
Tips for UAE Residents to Avoid Travel Bans
Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to minimize your risk of facing travel restrictions:
Financial Management:
- Keep all loan and credit card payments current
- Never issue cheques without sufficient funds
- Settle rental and utility bills on time
- Maintain clear communication with banks if facing financial difficulties
Legal Compliance:
- Respond promptly to any legal notices or court summons
- Keep your visa and Emirates ID valid and up to date
- Maintain proper documentation for all financial transactions
- Address disputes professionally rather than letting them escalate to legal action
Regular Monitoring:
- Check your legal status through Estafser periodically, especially if you have ongoing financial obligations
- Review your credit report regularly
- Keep records of all payment receipts and agreements
Before Major Travel:
- Always verify your status at least one week before international travel
- Ensure all visas, both UAE residence and destination country, are valid
- Check that you have no outstanding fines or violations
Conclusion
The Estafser service is an essential tool for any Abu Dhabi resident planning to travel internationally. By providing free, instant access to your legal status, it helps you avoid the stress and complications of discovering travel restrictions at the airport.
By staying proactive and using the Estafser service regularly, you can ensure smooth travels and maintain peace of mind about your legal standing in the UAE.
Disclaimer: This information is current as of January 2026 and is intended for general guidance only. Government services and procedures may change. Always verify the latest information on official government websites. For specific legal advice regarding travel bans or legal cases, consult with a qualified legal professional in the UAE.