visit visa uae for child

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Tourist visa

A tourist visa is for those who are not eligible for  visa on arrival  or a  visa-free entry  to the UAE. You can apply for a tourist visa through airlines, hotels and travel agents. Read about the eligibility criteria and the steps to apply.

Multiple entry 5-year tourist visa

Who is a tourist visa for, who can apply for your tourist visa, related eservices.

The multiple entry 5-year tourist visa enables tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship and remain in the country for 90 days on each visit, and can be extended for further 90 days. This type of tourist visa can be issued for all nationalities.

To obtain this visa, the applicant must have:

• a bank balance of 4,000 USD or its equivalent in foreign currencies during the last six months
• a valid health insurance policy applicable in the UAE
• a ticket to and from the UAE

Documents required

To apply for the multiple entry tourist visa, the applicant must provide the following:

• a colored photo
• a copy of the passport
• medical Insurance
• bank statement for the last 6 months with a balance 4,000 USD or its equivalent in foreign currencies
• tour programme
• a ticket for onward journey.

Read related news coverage on  WAM .

Related online services

• Issue family group multiple entry long-term tourist visa - 5 years - (all nationalities) – ICP
• Issue multiple entries long-term tourist visa - 5 years - (all nationalities) – ICP

Tourist visa is for those who are not eligible for  visa on arrival  or a  visa-free entry  to the UAE. Tourist visa can be obtained for eligible individual tourists from around the world. Females below the age of 18 are not eligible to apply for this type of visa unless they are travelling with their parents.

According to a Cabinet resolution passed in July 2018, children under the age of 18 years who are accompanying adults, can get a  free visa for their visit from 15 July to 15 September each year.

Tourist visas through airlines

Each airline has some conditions, which must be met in order for your visa to be arranged by them. One of the conditions is flying with them. For more updated and specific information, check the following UAE-based airlines for visa types, facilities, terms and conditions:

• Visa services from Etihad Airways  - Etihad Airways
• Visa Services offered by Emirates Airline  - Emirates Airline
• Visa services from Fly Dubai  - Fly Dubai
• Visa services from Air Arabia  - Air Arabia

Tourist visas through agencies and hotels

Licensed travel agents and hotels in the UAE can arrange a tourist visa for you provided you purchase the ticket through them and maintain hotel reservation with the specific hotel.

You can also contact travel agencies in your country for any tourist packages available to the UAE in collaboration with a local tour operator.

It is important to check the authenticity of travel agents you are dealing with and refrain from paying or sending copies of your official documents until after you are 100 per cent sure the tour operator is genuine. You can seek the help of the  UAE embassy in your country  for verification.

Note: The UAE embassies do not issue tourist visas. In order to get a tourist visa to the UAE, you need to get in touch with one of the UAE-based airlines, a tour agency or a hotel (where you intend to stay) in the UAE who will apply for visa on your behalf to the official  visa-issuing authorities  in the UAE.

• Tourist visa from Etihad Airways  - Etihad Airways
• Tourist visa from Emirates Airline  - Emirates Airline
• Tourist visa from Fly Dubai  - Fly Dubai
• Tourist visa from Air Arabia  - Air Arabia

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How to apply for a family visit visa for a child in UAE

• 28 April 2023
• Posted By : system

Traveling with your family is one of the most exciting things you can do. Dubai, in particular, is a great destination to visit with your family. If you are planning to visit Dubai with your child, you will need to apply for a family visit visa for your child.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for a family visit visa for a child in the UAE.

Now, let's be honest, the process of applying for a family visit visa isn't exactly a walk in the park. But fear not! With our expert guidance, you'll be able to breeze through the application process with ease. So, let's dive right in and take a closer look at the five essential steps you need to follow to secure a family visit visa for your child in the UAE.

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

Before applying for a family visit visa for a child in UAE, it is important to gather all the required documents. These documents include:

• A copy of the child's passport
• A passport-size photograph of the child
• A copy of the sponsor's passport
• NOC from the sponsor (the child's parent or guardian)
• Proof of the sponsor's residency in the UAE (for example, a residency visa or an Emirates ID card)
• A birth certificate for the child
• A marriage certificate (if the child is traveling with only one parent)

It is important to note that some of these documents may need to be attested by the UAE embassy in your home country.

Step 2: Apply for the Family Visit Visa

Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can apply for the family visit visa for your child. There are two ways to apply for the visa:

• Apply online: You can apply for the visa online through the UAE government's website. This process is straightforward and can be completed in a few easy steps. You will need to create an account on the website and fill out the application form. You will also need to upload all the required documents.
• Apply through a travel agency: Alternatively, you can apply for the visa through a travel agency. Travel agencies can help simplify the process and provide guidance on the required documents. They can also help with any questions you may have about the visa application process.

Step 3:  Pay the Visa Fee

Once you have prepared all the required documents, you can submit the application for a family visit visa for your child to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). After submitting the application, you will need to pay the visa fee. The fee for a family visit visa for a child in UAE may vary depending on the travel agency you use.

Step 4: Wait for the Visa Approval

After submitting your application and paying the visa fee, you will need to wait for the visa approval. The processing time for a family visit visa for a child in UAE is typically three to five working days. However, the processing time may vary depending on the volume of applications.

Step 5: Collect the Visa

Once your visa application has been approved, you can collect the visa. You can either collect it from the UAE embassy in your home country or have it delivered to your address. If you applied through a travel agency, they could also arrange for the visa to be delivered to your address.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a family visit visa for a child in UAE can be a straightforward process if you have all the required documents and follow the steps outlined above. It is important to note that the visa application process can vary depending on the travel agency you use. Therefore, it is recommended that you choose a reputable travel agency to assist you with the process.

Q: Who can sponsor a family visit visa for a child in UAE?

A: A parent or legal guardian who is a UAE resident can sponsor a family visit visa for a child in UAE.

Q: Is it necessary for a child to have a visa to enter UAE?

A: Yes, all visitors, including children, require a visa to enter UAE.

Q: Can a child travel alone to UAE with a family visit visa?

A: No, a child under 18 years of age cannot travel alone to UAE with a family visit visa. They must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Q: How long is a family visit visa valid for a child in UAE?

A: A family visit visa for a child in UAE is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.

Q: Can a family visit visa for a child in UAE be extended?

A: Yes, a family visit visa for a child in UAE can be extended twice for an additional 90 days each time.

Q: How long does it take to process a family visit visa for a child in UAE?

A: The processing time for a family visit visa for a child in UAE is typically three to five working days. However, the processing time may vary depending on the volume of applications.

Q: Is it possible to apply for a family visit visa for a child in UAE on arrival?

A: No, it is not possible to apply for a family visit visa for a child in UAE on arrival. The visa must be obtained before traveling to UAE.

Q: What happens if the family visit visa for a child in UAE expires?

A: If the family visit visa for a child in UAE expires, the child will be considered an illegal resident and may face fines, deportation, or other legal consequences.

<p>Now, let's be honest, the process of applying for a family visit visa isn't exactly a walk in the park. But fear not! With our expert guidance, you'll be able to breeze through the application process with ease. So, let's dive right in and take a closer look at the five essential steps you need to follow to secure a family visit visa for your child in the UAE.</p> <h3><strong>Step 1: Gather the Required Documents</strong></h3> <p>Before applying for a family visit visa for a child in UAE, it is important to gather all the required documents. These documents include:</p> <ol> <li>A copy of the child's passport</li> <li>A passport-size photograph of the child</li> <li>A copy of the sponsor's passport</li> <li>NOC from the sponsor (the child's parent or guardian)</li> <li>Proof of the sponsor's residency in the UAE (for example, a residency visa or an Emirates ID card)</li> <li>A birth certificate for the child</li> <li>A marriage certificate (if the child is traveling with only one parent)</li> </ol> <p>It is important to note that some of these documents may need to be attested by the UAE embassy in your home country.</p> <h3><strong>Step 2: Apply for the Family Visit Visa</strong></h3> <p>Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can apply for the family visit visa for your child. There are two ways to apply for the visa:</p> <ol> <li><strong>Apply online:</strong> You can apply for the visa online through the UAE government's website. This process is straightforward and can be completed in a few easy steps. You will need to create an account on the website and fill out the application form. You will also need to upload all the required documents.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Apply through a travel agency:</strong> Alternatively, you can apply for the visa through a travel agency. Travel agencies can help simplify the process and provide guidance on the required documents. They can also help with any questions you may have about the visa application process.</li> </ol> <h3><strong>Step 3: &nbsp;Pay the Visa Fee</strong></h3> <p>Once you have prepared all the required documents, you can submit the application for a family visit visa for your child to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). After submitting the application, you will need to pay the visa fee. The fee for a family visit visa for a child in UAE may vary depending on the travel agency you use.</p> <h3><strong>Step 4: Wait for the Visa Approval</strong></h3> <p>After submitting your application and paying the visa fee, you will need to wait for the visa approval. The processing time for a family visit visa for a child in UAE is typically three to five working days. However, the processing time may vary depending on the volume of applications.</p> <h3><strong>Step 5: Collect the Visa</strong></h3> <p>Once your visa application has been approved, you can collect the visa. You can either collect it from the UAE embassy in your home country or have it delivered to your address. If you applied through a travel agency, they could also arrange for the visa to be delivered to your address.</p> <h2><strong>Final Thoughts</strong></h2> <p>Applying for a family visit visa for a child in UAE can be a straightforward process if you have all the required documents and follow the steps outlined above. It is important to note that the visa application process can vary depending on the travel agency you use. Therefore, it is recommended that you choose a reputable travel agency to assist you with the process.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h1><strong>FAQS</strong></h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Q: <strong>Who can sponsor a family visit visa for a child in UAE?</strong></p> <p>A: A parent or legal guardian who is a UAE resident can sponsor a family visit visa for a child in UAE.</p> <h4><strong>Q: Is it necessary for a child to have a visa to enter UAE?</strong></h4> <p>A: Yes, all visitors, including children, require a visa to enter UAE.</p> <h4><strong>Q: Can a child travel alone to UAE with a family visit visa?</strong></h4> <p>A: No, a child under 18 years of age cannot travel alone to UAE with a family visit visa. They must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.</p> <h4><strong>Q: How long is a family visit visa valid for a child in UAE?</strong></h4> <p>A: A family visit visa for a child in UAE is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.</p> <h4><strong>Q: Can a family visit visa for a child in UAE be extended?</strong></h4> <p>A: Yes, a family visit visa for a child in UAE can be extended twice for an additional 90 days each time.</p> <h4><strong>Q: How long does it take to process a family visit visa for a child in UAE?</strong></h4> <p>A: The processing time for a family visit visa for a child in UAE is typically three to five working days. However, the processing time may vary depending on the volume of applications.</p> <h4><strong>Q: Is it possible to apply for a family visit visa for a child in UAE on arrival?</strong></h4> <p>A: No, it is not possible to apply for a family visit visa for a child in UAE on arrival. The visa must be obtained before traveling to UAE.</p> <h4><strong>Q: What happens if the family visit visa for a child in UAE expires?</strong></h4> <p>A: If the family visit visa for a child in UAE expires, the child will be considered an illegal resident and may face fines, deportation, or other legal consequences.</p>

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No Visa Fee for Children: Here's How to Apply for a Family Group Visit Visa in UAE

Tourists can apply for the family group visit visa through travel agencies for either 30 days or 60 days which can be extended within the country.

If your loved ones are planning a trip to the UAE, here's a reminder: tourists can apply for a family group visit visa, in which children receive a visa free-of-cost.

The family group visit visa allows children under the age of 18 to receive a visa free-of-cost, while the parents to pay for their own fee.

“The application for this visa should be submitted along with either father’s or mother’s application,”

said Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager for inbound and outbound operations at Regal Tours Worldwide.

Industry experts said that the family group visit visa is highly in demand and many visitors are opting for this entry permit.

“A family group visit visa is more convenient and cost-effective for families, given that there is no visa fee for children under the age of 18,” said Subair adding that it is not restricted to any number of children.

“The visa can be applied for one parent and both of them visiting the UAE is not necessary,”

added Subair.

As it's the festive season, we are issuing many family group visit visas every day as Indians want to celebrate Diwali in Dubai, said Firoz Maliyakkal, founder and CEO of Tahira Tours and Travels

Experts say that this visa was introduced two years ago and people from all over the world who are aware of it prefer this service.

How to apply

To apply for this visa, visitors should collectively submit passport copy and photos to the agency.

“We will process the entry permit as a family visa, where the children can travel without visa charges. However travel agent service charges and insurance must be paid for children,”

said Firoz.

“This visa will be issued in a day or two,”

Firoz added.

The visa fee for parents within the group application, along with the service charge for children, may vary on the travel agency.

However, the cost for 30 days visa for a parent ranges from Dh350 to Dh500 on average and the service charge and insurance for a child lies between Dh80 and Dh120.

“For 60 days visa for single person, the fees is Dh500 to Dh650 on an average and the service charge including insurance may vary from Dh130 to Dh170,”

• Passport copy
• Passport-sized photograph

Experts said that the family visa can be extended without exiting the country,

“however, a full visa fee has to be paid for children. The extension within the country is not free for children,”

said Subair.

“Visitors can extend the family visa up to 120 days without exiting the country,”

News Source: Khaleej Times

Written by HiDubai Newswire

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Issuing a visit visa for a relative or friend for one entry

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How to sponsor a son over the age of 18 under new UAE visa rules

Unmarried daughters and disabled children are granted residency permits regardless of age.

Previously, parents could sponsor their sons up to the age of 18. Getty

Latest: UAE authorities say visa scheme to begin on October 3

New visa rules coming into force in October will allow parents living in the UAE to sponsor their sons at university in the Emirates up to the age of 25.

Previously, parents could sponsor their sons up to the age of 18 and then renew the visa for another three years, provided their sons were studying at a university.

The new rules offer huge relief to parents who have struggled to pay for university visa sponsorship in the UAE. Those studying abroad would come back on visit visas to see their families living in the UAE.

Unmarried daughters and disabled children are granted a residency permit regardless of their age, according to the new rules.

The rule changes were approved by the Cabinet in April , as per decision number no. 65 for 2022.

Validity of family residence visa

In all cases, the duration of residency for the son or daughter should be the same duration as their parents' residency permit, which can be for two or three years.

The residency holder — in this instance the parents — should provide a home for the children to sponsor them. The residency permit application should be accompanied by an attested tenancy contract and salary certificate, as per Article 55 of the executive regulation list.

The sponsor should also provide a document to prove the parent-son relationship, such as an attested birth certificate.

According to the executive regulations list regarding Entry and Residence of Foreigners, the child's residency visa may become invalid if the child remains outside the UAE for more than 180 days.

The children's residency permits are linked to the permit of the sponsoring expatriate employee. If the sponsoring parent's visa is cancelled, it requires the cancellation of the visas of the dependants.

Dependants are granted a 30-day grace period from the date of expiry or cancellation of their visa to obtain a new residence permit. If the employee fails to renew or cancel the visa of his dependants, the dependants would be deemed illegal residents and could be liable to pay a fine.

Overstay fines

As per the UAE immigration's fines system, the penalty to stay on after the expiration of the grace period is Dh125 for the first day and Dh25 for each subsequent day.

If the dependant's overstay is more than six months, then the fine will be Dh50 per day and Dh100 per day after one year of overstaying.

How to apply

The sponsor can apply online to get his/her child's residency on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai website or through Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security for all other emirates.

Applicants also can visit the nearest Amer centre or typing centres to apply for a residence permit for their children.

List of documents required

Sponsor Emirates ID (Original).

Sponsor passport & residence visa page (at least minimum 6 months’ validity).

Valid Salary Certificate.

Valid Labour Contract.

Registered Tenancy contract or Ejari.

Recent Electricity Bill if house owned by a sponsor (Not rented).

Passport copies (colour) of son and one photo with white background. Passport validity should be a minimum of six months.

Emirates ID application form at the time of visa stamping or renewal

Medical test for children above the age of 18

Health insurance

Sponsor account IBAN number

For enquires, call an Amer centre on the toll free number 8005 111 from inside the UAE or +97143139999 from outside the UAE, and requests can be emailed to [email protected]

Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security can be reached by calling 600522222 or email [email protected]

The UAE Today

The latest news and analysis from the Emirates

UAE family visit visa: Visa free for children under 18; here’s how to apply

The offer is available through approved travel agencies inside and outside the uae.

Abu Dhabi : With the festive season around the corner and those planning a family trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), here’s a good news for you.

In an effort to boost tourism in the country, the UAE family group tourist visa is free for children under 18, while normal charges apply to adult members.

As per a report by Khaleej Times, the offer is available through approved travel agencies inside and outside the UAE.

However, the travel agency may charge a service fee for children visa processing which can cost between 80 dirham (Rs 1,812) and 120 dirham (Rs 2,266).

Required documents of family

• Passport copy
• Passport-sized photograph

Visa duration

• It is available for a stay of 30 or 60 days, which can be extended within the country.

“Family visas can be extended without leaving the country, children must pay a full visa fee, and extension within the country is not free,” Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager for inbound and outbound operations at Regal Tours Worldwide was quoted as saying by Khaleej Times.

Visa cost for adult members

• 30-day visa cost from 350 dirham (Rs 6,800) to 500 dirham (Rs 11,334)
• The cost of a 60-day visa cost from 500 dirham to 650 dirham (Rs 14,734), with service charges, including insurance, potentially costing from 130 dirham (Rs 2,946) to 170 dirham (3,853)

The initiative aims to encourage families to choose UAE as their holiday destination. This visa offer is not new, it was introduced two years ago.

The UAE’s tourism industry is forecast to grow further, thanks to many incentives the government is offering visitors.

Meanwhile, Dubai International Airport welcomed 41.6 million guests in the first half of 2023, exceeding figures for the same period in 2019.

In the first half of 2023, Abu Dhabi International Airport experienced a passenger traffic volume exceeding 10 million.

Get the news updates on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. For all the latest Middle East updates, download our app Android and iOS .

How to Sponsor Your Child in the UAE (Residence Visa)

If you have been living in the UAE for some time, you might have thought about bringing your children to the country as well. To do this, you need to get them a residence visa through sponsorship. We’ve discussed before how you can sponsor your spouse in the UAE. In this article, you will learn about the qualifications, requirements, procedure, and other information regarding sponsoring your child in the UAE.

Disclaimer: Information posted in this article serves as a tip. Please be advised that there may be changes without prior notice. This experience was shared to us by one of our readers for your reference as well. We advise you to contact DNRD for questions and other concerns.

Step-by-Step Procedure in Acquiring a Visa for Your Child

How to apply for a uae residence visa for your child / children.

In a regular scenario, it is the father (head of the family) who is ideally the one to sponsor the child in the country. But there may be certain cases wherein a mother may need to sponsor the child such as when the father has lost his job.

A parent residing in the UAE can sponsor her children who are below 18 years old and not married. This does not include university or college students, unless a certificate proving that they are below 18 and not married is submitted.

Requirements/Qualifications In any case, a mother who wants to sponsor her child in the country must meet the following conditions / requirements:

• Valid employment visa
• Monthly salary of at least AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation allowance from her company (NOTE: Nurses and teachers who want to sponsor their children are exempted from the salary qualification.)
• Birth certificate of the child attested by the UAE Embassy in the Philippines and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE
• Marriage certificate attested by the UAE Embassy in the Philippines and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) in Arabic from the husband regarding the mother’s petition to sponsor their child. If the husband is not in the UAE, the NOC must be attested by the UAE Embassy in the Philippines and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE. (NOTE: If the NOC is not written in Arabic, it should be translated into Arabic).
• If the husband is in the UAE, his labour contract must be attached to the application.
• Tenancy contract or accommodation rental agreement attested through the Ejari online system of Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA)
• University degree attested by the UAE Embassy in the Philippines and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE (if the mother is not a doctor, engineer, nurse, or teacher)
• Bank statement for the last three months (if the mother is not a doctor, engineer, nurse, or teacher).

Conditions for specific cases:

• A divorced mother needs to submit a child custody verdict from a court. This should be attested by the UAE Embassy in the Philippines and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE
• A single mother needs to submit a child custody verdict from a court, a certificate from a local authority, or an affidavit from the Philippine Consulate. Certificates issued in the Philippines must be attested by the UAE Embassy there and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE.

Documents for Visa Sponsorship

In addition to the above conditions / requirements, the sponsor or applicant needs to submit the following:

• Colored passport copy and one photo of the child
• Sponsor’s original passport and Emirates ID
• International Bank Account Number (IBAN) of the sponsor

1. Fill out an Application Form at the nearest Typing Center.

2. Submit all your documents to the nearest General Department for Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) office. Upon approval, they will give you a temporary residence permit for your child, during which he or she can get a medical exam and clearance.

3. Apply for a medical exam at the Typing Center. You will be given documents to present to the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) clinic for the test. Medical results are often finished after two working days.

4. After getting the medical results, go to the Typing Center to change the status of the visa from “temporary residence visa” to “permanent residence visa.”

5. Apply for an Emirates ID for your child at the Typing Center.

6. Return to the GDRFA office for the stamping of the visa in the passport.

Application Fees The fees involved in applying for child sponsorship are as follows

Application Fee — AED 360  File Opening Charge — AED 220 Medical Exam — AED 420 Change of Visa Status — AED 550 Emirates ID Application — AED 370 Passport Visa Stamping — AED 510

Note: Fees above may vary depending on the Typing Centre where you had your papers set-up, as well as the current fees.

Special Cases:

• If the applicant is a government or semi-government staff, the application fee is AED 310.
• If the applicant is an investor or partner, she must provide AED 3,040 deposit for each child (to be refunded after the visa is canceled), trade license copy and partners list, and LLC agreement (of which the share value is not less than AED 70,000).
• If the child is already in the UAE on a Tourist Visa or Visit Visa, the applicant needs to pay AED 1230 for changing the status (AED 680 for issuing the visa inside the country and AED 550 for amending the status).

Note: Please be reminded that this article is simply a guide. Information here (requirements/fees/etc.) may change without priot notice. If you have more questions about sponsoring your child in the UAE, kindly inquire with the GDRFA though the following contact details: Postal Address: P.O. Box 4333, Dubai, UAE Phone Number: 800-5111 Email: [email protected] Website: https://ednrd.ae/

ATM 2024: UAE reveals details of GCC’s Schengen-styled ‘Grand Tours’ visa

The GCC Grand Tours visa will allow tourists to spend more than 30 days in the region

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE Minister of Economy, unveiled plans for the introduction of the ‘GCC Grand Tours’ visa, a unified Gulf tourist visa, during the Arabian Travel Market’s (ATM) opening day.

“In a significant move aimed at simplifying travel logistics and fostering tourism, the Gulf Cooperation Council has given the green light to a unified tourist visa that will allow travellers to visit all six countries,” stated Al Marri.

The GCC Grand Tours visa will allow tourists to spend more than 30 days in the region. According to the minister, this will make travel to the region more convenient and affordable for tourists. It will also increase activity and employment numbers in the region, he added.

Rollout and implementation of visa system

While an official rollout date was not provided, Khalid Jasim Al Midfa of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Authority indicated that the system should be operational by the end of 2024.

“By the end of this year, the whole system should be in place. Many people and teams, led by the Ministry of Economy in the UAE and other ministries in other countries, are working on it tirelessly to make it happen in the best possible way, emphasising digital transformation,” said Al Midfa.

Al Midfa highlighted the collaborative efforts among ministries to ensure a seamless and digitally transformed visa system.

What an incredible day it has been! The first day of #ATMDubai 2024 was absolutely breathtaking, and the exciting part is that it’s only the beginning! If you missed it, don’t worry – you can still join us tomorrow by registering here ➡️ https://t.co/HfUrYegQqZ . pic.twitter.com/PoP52tdYvg — ATM Dubai (@ATMDubai) May 6, 2024

Economic impact and tourism growth

Al Marri emphasised the economic significance of tourism. The minister cited the World Travel and Tourism Council’s (WTTC) research and stated that travel and tourism contributed 11.7 per cent to the UAE’s GDP last year, amounting to Dhs220bn.

“The forecast is set even higher, with an anticipated contribution of 12 per cent to our GDP, equating to Dh236bn,” he added.

“I believe that our regional ambitions should not be to recover to pre-pandemic benchmarks but exceed them merely,” said Al Marri.

Benefits and prospects

The ‘GCC Grand Tours’ visa aims to simplify travel logistics, making tourism within the GCC more accessible and cost-effective for visitors. This initiative is expected to boost tourist activity and create employment opportunities across the region.

The introduction of the unified visa system underscores the GCC’s commitment to promoting tourism and economic growth, positioning the region as a leading tourist destination on the global stage.

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UAE: 4 residency visa options for students; cost, process explained

A re you planning to relocate to the UAE for further education, or are you a resident starting your university journey? In UAE, a student can be sponsored by educational institutions or parents. In addition, outstanding students can sponsor themselves for 5 or 10 years, depending on the category.

Here's a breakdown of all the visa options available for students in the Emirates.

Foreign students can avail a visa sponsored by the accredited university or college of study. Students can contact the student affairs' offices at their university to facilitate the process.

According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security's (ICP) website, the service fees are:

The student visa is issued for one year, but can be renewed upon proof of continuation of study issued by the concerned educational institute.

According to the UAE’s government portal, students of universities in the UAE may be granted a Golden visa , if:

To know the university's classification, the applicant can access the university website, or contact their admin department.

According to the UAE’s government portal, students in foreign universities may be granted a Golden visa for a period of 10 years, if:

These ensure that outstanding students can remain in the country even after their study is complete.

High school students are eligible for a Golden Visa of 5 years, if:

The Golden Visa is for a duration of 5 years, but may be extended if the student is enrolled in one of the majors or colleges in the country that requires a study period of more than 5 years.

For Golden Visas in Dubai, students can expect a faster process if they first receive ICP nomination approval and then visit a branch of Amer, which is a semi-government organisation, an Amer agent told Khaleej Times.

According to the Amer website, the golden visa for students can cost Dh2978.90.

On the ICP website, service bundles are available, which include "residence entry permit for graduates of accredited universities in UAE" at a cost of Dh350, and "residence permit for graduates of accredited universities in UAE" for Dh1250. Service bundles for "residency visa for graduates of accredited universities outside UAE" cost Dh350 and "residence for graduates of accredited universities outside UAE" cost Dh1250.

Service bundles are also available for "residence entry permit for high school top ranked students in UAE" at Dh350, and "residence permit for high school top ranked students in UAE" at Dh1250.

Residents can sponsor the study of their children. For female children, residents may sponsor their study regardless of age, until marriage.

However, expatriate residents can sponsor their male child/children up to the age of 25. Parents can sponsor male children after 25 only if they provide evidence of attending a higher educational institute for a minimum of one year's course.

Students holding the Golden Visa can " to their parents, spouses, and children without any prejudice," an Amer agent told Khaleej Times.

Foreign students can also sponsor their parents "as long as they can afford it," Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai said. According to WAM, it is essential that family members can afford suitable housing.

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UAE student visa rules for new applicants, renewals outlined

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UAE’s Digital Government report addresses key questions by students

Abu Dhabi: The UAE’s Digital Government has published a comprehensive report for new students registered for the upcoming academic year about requirements of official authorities concerned with issuing visa and residency, as well as the conditions and procedures involved for them to apply for golden residency.

The report answers the most commonly asked questions and clarifies any doubts the students may have. 

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Who is eligible to apply for a student visa.

A foreign student who is guaranteed either by his or her parents living within the UAE or by the university or college in which he or she plans to study. Student affairs offices in universities are specialised in facilitating the procedures for obtaining a student visa.

What is the validity of the student visa?

The student visa is issued for one year only, and can be renewed for a similar period after submitting official proof of continuity of study issued by one of the higher education institutions in the UAE where the student is studying. Student affairs offices in universities are specialised in facilitating the procedures for obtaining a student visa.

What are the documents required?

Certificate issued by the university or educational institution specifying the duration of study, and any other requirements specified in the general provisions for a residence visa.

Can students sponsor their families?

Foreign university students can bring their families to live with them in the UAE as long as they have the financial capacity required and the provision of appropriate housing.

Foreign residents can sponsor their male children until they reach the age of 25 years. Accordingly, male students over the age of 25 can continue to have their parents’ residency as long as they provide written proof of their admission to a higher education institution for a period of not less than one year, and for female students, their parents can continue to provide them with a “student visa” regardless of their age.

When is a student eligible to apply for a golden visa?

The UAE grants golden residency to a number of student categories, including outstanding students and some eligible high school students.

If the student is in high school and obtains a high ranking at the state level (with a grade of no less than 95 per cent in a public or private high school), he may obtain a golden residency visa for five years without a guarantor, provided that a letter of recommendation is submitted from the Ministry of Education (Emirates Education Foundation). The residence permit may be renewed if the student is still registered in one of the universities in the country and needs a study period of more than five years.

As for UAE university students, outstanding students can obtain a 10-year residence visa without a guarantor, provided that the following requirements are met: The university must be classified (A) or (B) and be approved by the Ministry of Education; a letter of recommendation from the university or the graduation certificate should state that the student’s cumulative GPA is not less than 3.5 in A-rated universities or 3.8 in B-rated universities, and no more than two years must have passed since graduation.

How long does it take to get the student visa?

Under express processing, students can get the UAE student visa within 10 days. Otherwise, it can take 15-20 days, depending on the institution. UAE student visas are valid for a period of 12 months. International students have to renew their student visa at the end of the 12-month period if their programme is longer than that period.

When should one apply for a student visa?

Ideally, the student visa process should start at least one-two months prior to the beginning of the semester, so that other aspects of the checklist can be taken care of. International students have to submit their visa renewal documents at least a month prior to the date of visa expiry.

What work opportunities exist for foreign students on a student visa?

International students in the UAE can take up on-campus, as well as off-campus work. However, they would require permission for their university for this. If students have university sponsorship, they can approach the UAE Labour Department to obtain a permit to take up part-time jobs in the UAE.

What is the cost of the student visa?

The approximate cost of a student residence permit is Dh2,500, excluding security deposit (if applicable), file opening fees (if applicable), legalisation of documents and translation (if required). An additional fee of Dh500 will also apply.

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Gcc 'grand tours' visa: for dh4,000, visitors can soon explore multiple gulf countries, the visa will be similar to schengen visa, allowing access to all six gulf countries.

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Travel agencies in the UAE and abroad are all set to roll out packages for tourists visiting the Gulf region ahead of the launch of the unified GCC tourist visa or GCC 'Grand Tours' visa.

Travel and tourism industry executives said packages, which will include a couple of night stays, travel and sightseeing in three countries in the region, could cost visitors around Dh4,000-Dh5,000 and above.

During a ministerial discussion at the Arabian Travel Market last week, officials said the 'GCC Grand Tours' visa could be in place by the end of this year. The multi-entry visa will be similar to Schengen visa allowing access to all six Gulf countries.

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Rehan Asad, vice-president for global markets at Expedia, said the unified GCC tourist visa is a positive change for the region.

He said when Europe launched the Schengen visa, it amplified the region’s tourism sector and allowed people seamless access to several countries.

“People from the UAE love to travel to Saudi Arabia and Oman, and vice-versa, hence, this new visa will drive intra-country traffic and boost tourism further.”

The Expedia V-P said they have conducted research to assess people's needs.

"People want convenience during the GCC tour. We found out that children aged 8-14 play a critical role in deciding a family's destination and hotel stay. We have conducted a research among a population of 10 million people and will be rolling out packages based on people's needs. It will be a combined hotels, cars and tour activities package,” he said.

Stating that their "initial focus will be the UAE followed by Saudi Arabia", Asad said the packages will be “dynamic and not pre-bundled” and people will have several options to choose from.

Welcoming the unified GCC tourist visa, Anas Anane, associate executive at Traveazy, said the visa will be a huge advantage for the travel and tourism sector.

“The tour packages will start from Dh1,500 per person for one country, including flights and sightseeing. The cost will also depend on the peak or off-peak tourist season in the GCC countries.”

He said the packages would approximately cost Dh4,000-Dh5,000 for a couple of days' stay each in UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, covering flights, hotels, transfer and excursions in select countries.

Dubai in focus

Mohammed Farooz, executive secretary at Last Minute Tourism, said many companies are already working out tour packages. “We will have a package for Dubai, Oman and Qatar in a couple of months. This will include three nights each in Dubai and Oman; or three nights each in Dubai and Qatar. People who will buy our packages will first land in Dubai and then move on to next destinations in the region,” he said.

Farooz said bundle offers are going to be 25 per cent cheaper than regular packages.

Ross Veitch, chief executive officer and co-founder of Wego, said the unified GCC tourist visa will be a big incentive for inbound tourism and also for residents of the regional countries.

“The unified GCC visa will make the region even more popular, especially among the Chinese inbound visitors, in the same manner we have seen in Europe and Southeast Asia. It is common among Chinese visitors to land in Bangkok, and spend a few days in Thailand, followed by a few days each in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. I think tourists will do the same in this region with the unified tourist visa. They can land in Jeddah, then come to Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, and then return home,” said Veitch.

He said people are increasingly mixing business and leisure travel in the post-Covid period and that the trend will gain momentum once the unified GCC tourist visa is in place.

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