The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has recently implemented a new system for granting tourist visas to family groups visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Under the new visa process, instead of submitting individual applications for each member, families can now apply for a multiple-entry tourist visa as a group. The new system has been well-received by families, as it simplifies the application process and saves time and effort.
The Previous Visa Process
Previously, each member of a family had to file a separate application and submit the same set of documents for everyone if they wanted to visit the UAE on a tourist visa.
This meant that even if a family was visiting as a group, they had to send applications and supporting documents separately. This procedure was time-consuming and inconvenient, particularly for families with young children.
New Visa Application Process for Families
Under the new visa process, families can now apply for a multiple-entry tourist visa as a group through the ICP website. This method is significantly more efficient because it streamlines the application process and eliminates the need to submit separate applications and supporting documents for each family member.
Benefits of the New System
The new system provides several advantages to families travelling to the UAE. The five-year multiple-entry visa allows beneficiaries to stay in the country for up to 90 days at a time.
This allows families to plan their visits and take impulsive trips without having to worry about the visa application process.
Furthermore, the new system eliminates the need for a sponsor in the country, making it easier for families to apply for visas on their own.
According to a travel agent, visas have been in high demand, but agencies have no role to play in the process. He advised that it is better for families to apply for the visa individually on the ICP website than go through an agent, as travel agencies do not have a quota for this type of visa.
Visa Requirements and Costs
To apply for the UAE’s 5-year Multiple-entry tourist visa, families must submit the following documents.
- A coloured photo.
- A copy of the passport.
- Valid medical insurance.
- A valid ticket to leave the UAE.
- Bank statement for the previous six months with a bank balance of $4,000 (equivalent to approximately Dh14,700) or it’s equivalent in foreign currencies.
- Proof of place of residence which can be a hotel or residence address.
The cost of the visa is Dh750, in addition to a security deposit of Dh3,025, according to the ICP website.
The Future of Tourism in the UAE
In order to attract more tourists, Dubai’s tourism body announced in December 2022 that it was working with authorities to roll out a five-year multiple-entry tourist visa on a much larger scale.
The visa was announced last year as part of sweeping reforms. The multi-entry visa is expected to help the country attract more tourists, boost the economy, and strengthen its position as the region’s leading tourist destination.
Bottomline
The ICP’s new system for granting tourist visas to family groups visiting the UAE is a welcome change that simplifies the application process and allows families to better plan their visits. Families can visit the UAE on multiple occasions without having to worry about the visa application process because the multiple-entry visa is valid for five years.
The new system also aligns with Dubai’s efforts to attract more tourists and boost the local economy.
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