The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has updated its English-language “Entry Requirements” portal, signaling the complete shift to digital visa processing. Under the new guidance, applicants are directed to the Smart Services platform, the GDRFA-Dubai portal, or airline and hotel visa desks already integrated with government APIs. There are no longer manual forms.
What to Expect
Under the UAE digitalization process, immigration records are shared by the Interior Ministry, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) and the country’s civil aviation system.
- Travelers are now issued a “Unified Number” when their e-visa is approved, allowing airlines to verify eligibility and pre-clear passengers before they board.
- For expatriates already resident in the Emirates, the tool doubles as a recovery mechanism for Emirates ID numbers that may be under renewal.
- The new system captures biometric data on first arrival and links the data to the traveler’s UID, enabling renewal or change-of-status applications to be completed entirely online.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.