Dubai residents now have the option to sponsor their friends or family for a three-month visit visa by paying a refundable deposit of AED1,000.
The application for the 90-day visa can be submitted online, through the mobile application, or via an Amer typing centre.
The UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has implemented a series of updates aimed at improving their services system and meeting customer needs, Khaleej Times reported.
The updates include the issuance of group family visas for tourism, treatment, and patient companionship, which are available for both single and multiple entries for a period of 60 days and 180 days. Additionally, people of determination citizens are now exempt from the fingerprinting requirement when applying for passport issuance, renewal, or replacement. The visa extension service has also been expanded to allow a 30-day extension for one-time holders of 90-day visas, while prohibiting the renewal of residency visas that are valid for more than 6 months. The updated smart services system also provides cancellation and amendment services for visa data in the accounts of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens without Emirates ID. Finally, the system now allows the extension of visit visas for single or multiple entries for a period of 30, 60, and 90 days in the accounts of a relative or friend.
However, tourists who overstay their visa could face hefty fines starting at AED5,000 and even absconding charges.
It's worth noting that the grace period for overstaying tourists is just 10 days and that they must exit the country from Dubai.