Has this issue re-surfaced???

A friend of mine was denied EXIT at DXB today when he went to use his e-gate that he arrived on 3 week ago. E-gate immigration agent said e-gate card expired on Feb 22 and that he had to go to e-gate-- and not just atmp him out as he arrived on e-gate. When he went to e-gate they tried to get him out with a "letter" showing his arrival by e-gate but no avail and then he waas told by both Immigration and E-gate (Terminal 1) that e-gate is only for Residence Visa holders.

I renewed (new Gold Card) 4 weeks ago with no problem and on visit visa. And I am in T3 lounge now.

He was still denied exit until his bags had been off loaded (Virgin) and then one of the immigration officers agreed as a one off to stamp him out. When asking about catching an EK flight immigration officer said he could not help with the problem if it arose at T3-- I told him he must of had some bad luck -

So... anyone else heard anything about the old Residents only issue coming back... I think this will go away- but raise the issue just incase. He is trying again tomorrow and wil let you know what I hear. (I was going to ask at E-gate T3 - but for the sake of my 2 week trip I decided not to--- just in case )