The UAE has extended by two months an amnesty for illegal workers wishing to leave the country.

However, the extra period does not apply to those seeking to regularise their situation, the state Wam news agency reported.

Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan has extended until November 3 the grace period granted to illegal residents trying to secure authorisation to leave without facing a penalty, it said.

But the original three-month amnesty, due to expire on September 3, will not be prolonged for those who chose to regularise their situation, Wam said.