Kerala Woman Detained in UAE Over Visa Issues Returns Home After Political Intervention
A 37-year-old woman from Arimpur in Thrissur district, Kerala, has finally returned to India after being detained in the United Arab Emirates due to an overstayed visa and an absconding complaint filed by her sponsor. Her ordeal, which lasted nearly two years, ended thanks to coordinated efforts involving political representatives and legal experts.
Background of the Case
The woman traveled to Sharjah approximately two years ago on a housemaid work visa, having paid a significant sum to an agent to secure employment. According to Yab Legal Services, the firm that later assisted her, she worked under this visa for about two years. However, her legal status became irregular when the visa expired, and she could not secure a renewal due to the agent's high fees.
Overstay and Detention Details
The agent reportedly demanded an additional AED 9,000 (around ₹220,000) to process the visa renewal, an amount the woman could not afford. Consequently, her sponsor filed a complaint with immigration authorities alleging she had absconded, a serious legal accusation under UAE rules that can lead to detainment and deportation.
Police became aware of her situation when they stopped her while she was shopping at a local supermarket in Sharjah. Based on the immigration complaint, she was taken into custody, initiating a period of uncertainty for her family back in Thrissur.
Overcoming Legal Challenges
In India, her family reported her missing, prompting intervention from Murali Perunelli, the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Manalur in Kerala. MLA Perunelli contacted Salam Pappinisseri, CEO of Yab Legal Services, a UAE-based immigration legal firm, to resolve the matter.
Within two days, the firm coordinated with UAE authorities, completed required legal procedures, secured an outpass for her release, and handled travel arrangements back to India. Her return to Kerala relieved her family and community, marking a successful outcome after days of worry while she was detained legally in Sharjah.
Broader Context of UAE Visa Enforcement
The UAE has been strictly enforcing visa rules, especially after the end of recent amnesty programs that allowed overstayers to exit without penalties. During the first half of 2025, authorities flagged over 32,000 visa violators, including people with expired or irregular status, as part of broader efforts to uphold immigration laws and prevent abuse of residency systems.
Anyone whose visa expires without renewal or exit can face fines, detainment, deportation, or blacklisting. In many cases, legal help, embassy support, or advocacy from local representatives can expedite resolution and help avoid long-term consequences.
This case highlights the importance of timely visa renewals and the critical role of political and legal intervention in resolving such immigration issues abroad.
