At the Sharjah International Airport. ARCHIVE

In a touching act of compassion, Sharjah Airport officials waived overstay fines and lifted a travel ban for a grieving Sudanese family, allowing them to return home following the sudden loss of a loved one. Salma, a Sudanese resident, shared her gratitude after airport officials stepped in to assist her sister and young nephew, who had unknowingly accrued fines due to permit delays. The family was attempting to leave the country shortly after the death of their mother — just two days before Ramadan began. Upon arriving at Sharjah International Airport, the family was devastated to learn of the fines and possible travel restrictions. An on-duty civil employee, Majid Sultan Al Musafri, noticed the woman’s distress and immediately contacted First Assistant Ali Abdullah Al Hammadi, who escalated the issue to Colonel Mohammed Bu Rahima, Director of Airport Passports. Col. Bu Rahima intervened directly, offering reassurance and ensuring the family could leave without penalty. “Sister, this is your country. The UAE is your home, and Sharjah is your city. You are always welcome to return to visit your mother’s grave and your family. You owe nothing. There are no fines, no departure fees, and no bans against you,” he told the woman. Thanks to the swift actions of the team, the family was able to return to Sudan with dignity and peace. Salma praised the officials’ kindness during one of the most painful periods of her life and also thanked her friend Fatima Mohammed Saif Al Naqbi for supporting her. ICA/Expat Media
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