UAE citizens holding valid US visas will soon enjoy faster entry procedures into the United States under a new agreement between the UAE and US governments, WAM reported.
The deal, signed during UAE President Sheikh Mohamed’s official visit to the US, will see the country join the Global Entry Programme starting in October 2024.
The Global Entry Programme, a US Customs and Border Protection initiative, allows pre-approved travelers to bypass lengthy immigration lines and complete entry formalities at dedicated kiosks in US airports. While the system expedites the process, travelers must still hold a valid US visa for entry.
UAE Ambassador to the US, Yousef Al Otaiba, said the agreement strengthens bilateral security and promotes smoother travel and commerce. The next step will involve finalising the criteria for full UAE participation in the programme, which will be available at 75 airports worldwide.
