Dubai announces new entry permit system

Got friends living in the GCC? We have good news, as Dubai has just made it easier for them to visit you thanks to a new streamlined process for getting an entry permit.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA) has announced a new entry permit system for GCC residents.

“This service has been activated to issue a prior online entry permit for travellers residing in GCC countries, in order to ensure a smooth entry process into the UAE, and streamline procedures,” GDRFA said via an Instagram post.

Better still, you won’t have to wait long to get your hands on the entry permit, either, as the service takes just 48 hours.

Available to those who have a valid residence permit for at least a year, the applicant’s work or residency card needs to include their profession.

Required documents for the new entry permit
The original passport
Upon arrival, presenting the original residence permit issued by a GCC country
A civil or labour card

How to apply
Via the GDRFAD website:
Log in to the smart services through (UAE Pass or username)
Select the service
Fill in the application
Pay the fees
It will cost AED250 with VAT (5 percent).

However, there are few terms and conditions the GCC resident must take note of:

• The foreigner must have a valid residence permit for at least a year.
• No restrictions that prevent the traveller from entering the country should exist.
• The work or residency card needs to include the profession.
• The service is open 24 hours, 7 days a week and take a processing time of 48 hours minimum.