The UAE has welcomed a new development in visa processing with the opening of a dedicated French visa centre in Abu Dhabi. Operated by VFS Global, this centre, located at The Mall – World Trade Centre on Khalifa Bin Zayed the 1st Street, will serve applicants from all seven emirates.
Inaugurated on December 18 by Soumya Zelmat, the Consul of France in Abu Dhabi, the centre is poised to streamline the process of obtaining a visa to France. A notable feature of this facility is the ‘Visa At Your Doorstep’ service, which allows applicants the convenience of remote application, in addition to the traditional in-person submission.
Soumya Zelmat, during the inauguration, emphasized the commitment to fostering bilateral relations between France and the UAE. “This new visa centre, exclusively for France, is a testament to our dedication to facilitating travel between our countries. We aim to offer efficient and transparent services, making France, the world’s most visited country this year, more accessible to tourists, students, business people, and families from the UAE,” she said.
Ms. Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head of VFS Global, highlighted the increasing popularity of France as a destination for UAE residents. “With a 45 per cent increase in visa applications compared to last year, this stand-alone France Visa Application Centre underscores the growing demand for travel to France. We are proud to open this facility and extend our gratitude to the Embassy of France in Abu Dhabi for their support,” Billimoria stated.
The new centre is equipped with modern amenities, including a spacious waiting area, advanced biometric facilities, and a dedicated section promoting France as a travel destination. It offers various optional services like courier passport returns, after-hours application submission, professional visa assistance, and a Premium Lounge for a more personalized service.
Applicants for visas to other Schengen countries in Abu Dhabi are advised to continue using the Joint Visa Application Centre located in the same World Trade Centre Mall.
