Planning to visit your friends or relatives in Dubai? The Multi-Entry Friend or Relative Visa offers a convenient way for foreign nationals to reconnect with loved ones in the UAE without requiring a host or guarantor. This visa is available for 30, 60, or 90 days, making it a flexible option for visitors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to avail of this visa.
Step 1: Understand the requirements
To apply for the visa, you’ll need the following documents:
1. Personal Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo.
2. Passport Copy: Valid for at least six months.
3. Proof of Relationship: Documents like a marriage contract or birth certificate.
4. Employment Documentation: Depending on your status:
- Salary certificate (for government, semi-government, or free zone employees).
- Work contract (for private company employees).
- Partnership contract (for business owners).
5. National Identity Card: Required for applicants from Iraq, Pakistan, Iran, or Afghanistan.
Step 2: Determine the costs
The visa fees are based on the duration of stay:
- 30-day visa: AED 300
- 60-day visa: AED 500
- 90-day visa: AED 700
Note: A 5% VAT applies to these fees.
Additional costs include:
Health Insurance Fees:
- 30-day: AED 40
- 60-day: AED 60
- 90-day: AED 90
Financial Guarantee: AED 2,000 (refundable upon meeting visa conditions).
- Additional charges for processing the guarantee include AED 20 (warranty service fee) and AED 40 (collection and return fee).
Inside Country Applications: An additional AED 500 is applicable if the applicant is already in the UAE.
Step 3: Submit your application
You can apply via digital channels or at Customer Happiness Centers:
Option 1: Digital Channels
1. Log in to the smart services system using UAE Pass or a registered username.
2. Search for the “Friend or Relative Visa” service.
3. Complete the application form and upload the required documents.
4. Pay the applicable fees online.
5. Await approval, which usually takes 48 hours.
Option 2: Customer Happiness Centers
1. Visit the nearest center during operating hours.
2. Obtain a queue ticket and wait for your turn.
3. Submit the application along with the required documents to a customer service representative.
4. Pay the applicable fees directly at the center.
Step 4: Terms and conditions
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. The visa is for foreign nationals visiting friends or relatives in Dubai.
2. Documentation proving family ties or the purpose of the visit is required.
3. The financial guarantee must be secured.
4. For foreign wives of GCC nationals, a valid residence permit in the husband’s country of nationality is needed.
Tips for a smooth application process
1. Double-check the validity of your passport to avoid delays.
2. Ensure all documents are clear, valid, and uploaded in the correct format.
3. If applying through digital channels, use a stable internet connection to prevent issues during submission.
4. Follow up on your application status using the GDRFA Dubai portal.
Service availability
The visa application service is available:
- 24/7 through digital channels.
- During operating hours at AMER Centers.
