Dubai: The The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has announced that all foreign residents in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries must now obtain an electronic visa before travelling to the country. 

Applications for this e-Visa can be submitted through the official portals of either the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. Upon approval, the e-visa will be sent to the applicant’s registered email address.

It is essential to note that family members or dependents of GCC residents will not be issued e-visas unless they are travelling with their sponsor. After the e-visa is issued, the applicant must reach UAE within 30 days. The e-Visa allows a 30-day stay in the UAE, with an option to extend the stay by an additional 30 days. 

In cases where the resident changes employment after the visa is issued, a new e-visa will be required. Applicants are advised that their passports should be valid for at least six months from the date of travel, and their GCC residency permits must have a minimum validity of one year.