Dubai residents can now get a 3-month visit visa for their friends or family in the country

Dubai residents who want to host their friends or family in the country can now get a 3-month visit visa, according to residents and travel agencies. The host is required to pay a refundable deposit of Dh1,000 for this visa.

In October 2022, sweeping reforms were made to entry visas in the UAE as part of the Advanced Visa System. It introduced one of the largest residency and entry permit reforms in the UAE to date.

However, according to travel agencies in the country, they are unable to apply for these visas in their systems. On the GDRFA website, users can also apply for entry permits for business or job opportunities, entry permits for those awaiting their Green Visas, as well as a patient escort permit, among others.

As part of the advanced visa services, an array of new entry permits was introduced. Some of them included a job exploration entry visa, one for business entry, a five-year multi-entry tourist visa, one to seek medical treatment, for temporary work, and for studies and training.

Last week, UAE's Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) announced the implementation of a new package of updates to improve the services provided to citizens, residents, and visitors through its smart services system.

The ICA has adopted a list of 15 services that were updated in its smart services system as of February 1, 2023.