GCC residents and their companions can now apply for a 30-day e-visa to enter the UAE, which can be extended for an additional 30 days, the UAE Digital Government announced. According to a Khaleej Times report, this new policy removes the previous requirement for residents to leave the country to apply for a new entry visa.
The e-visa is required for residents of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. Applications can be processed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
However, there are specific conditions for applicants, including the requirement for GCC expats to travel with their sponsor. The entry permit for GCC residents is valid for 30 days from the date of issue, with a stay of 30 days from the date of entry, and can be extended. For companions of GCC citizens, the visa is valid for 60 days with an option to extend.
Applicants can apply for the e-visa online through the GDRFA website, providing necessary documents such as a passport valid for at least six months, a residence permit, and a personal photo. The fee for the visa is AED 250 plus VAT, and it will be sent via email upon approval.
