Latest news with #HelalSaeedAlmarri
Gulf Business
12-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Dubai: DET briefing highlights growth, new campaigns and community initiatives
Image: Dubai Media Office The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism ( The event, held at the Coca-Cola Arena, forms part of DET's bi-annual platform to align public and private sector efforts to sustain the city's tourism momentum. Reflecting the UAE's Year of Community theme, the briefing underlined the role of collaboration in achieving Dubai's tourism growth. Stakeholders shared insights to support DET's strategic roadmap, with the goal of reinforcing Dubai's global appeal as both a leisure and business destination. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, led the session, which provided updates on Dubai's tourism performance, upcoming campaigns and citywide initiatives aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. Tourism milestones Dubai welcomed 7.15 million international overnight visitors from January to April 2025, a 7 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. The city received 18.72 million visitors last year, marking a second consecutive year of record tourism performance. Dubai's hotel sector reported 153,534 available rooms by end-April, with all key performance metrics posting year-on-year gains. 'The exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 is a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners,' said Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). 'It is by coming together as a community that we have been able to navigate challenges, create compelling narratives about the city, and drive global trends.' Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said the city's year-round events continue to serve as key economic drivers, attracting visitors and supporting sectors such as retail and hospitality. 'These world-class experiences are vital to nurturing the pillars of our economy and are a reflection of Dubai's bold vision and global ambition,' he said. Read: DET: New initiatives and campaigns The event highlighted Dubai's designation as the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere. In partnership with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), DET has trained more than 70,000 individuals through the Dubai College of Tourism, while over 300 hotels have taken steps to enhance accessibility for neurodivergent visitors. Also spotlighted was the 'MyDubai Communities' platform, launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in April. The digital initiative aims to strengthen social cohesion by connecting residents through more than 100 interest-based groups. DET's new summer campaign, 'Dubai. That's How You Summer' , was unveiled during the briefing, positioning the city as a vibrant seasonal destination. Another campaign, 'Find Your Story' , launched earlier this year and features Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi exploring Dubai's blend of desert adventure and futuristic architecture. Culinary growth and events calendar Dubai's food scene continues to be a tourism growth engine. The 2025 MICHELIN Guide Dubai, published in May, included 119 restaurants across 35 cuisines – a 12.3 per cent increase from 2024 – and featured the city's first three-starred restaurants: FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio. Looking ahead, the return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) was confirmed for June 27 to August 31. Structured into three phases – Summer Holiday Offers, The Great Summer Sale, and Back to School – DSS is expected to drive retail engagement and footfall throughout the summer. Dubai's retail calendar will also include Dubai Home Festival, Dubai Fitness Challenge and Dubai Shopping Festival in the latter half of the year, alongside a growing line-up of international business events. The City Briefing concluded with a call for continued stakeholder engagement to sustain Dubai's momentum as a leading global tourism and business hub.
Gulf Today
11-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Dubai to reinforce collaborative approach to its tourism growth
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) hosted its first City Briefing of 2025, a key bi-annual stakeholder engagement platform that further reinforces Dubai's collaborative approach to tourism growth. Held at the Coca-Cola Arena, the briefing brought together more than 1,300 industry leaders and professionals from across the hospitality, aviation, retail and F&B sectors, along with representatives from government entities. Reflecting the UAE Year of Community's focus on building a connected society grounded in belonging and shared purpose, the briefing highlighted the critical role that partners across the public and private sectors are playing in Dubai's continued tourism performance. The event was more interactive than ever, with stakeholders providing insights and expertise that is poised to feed into DET's strategy and initiatives going forward, and further elevate the city's appeal to global leisure and business audiences. In the presence of Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of DET, the latest edition provided a comprehensive update on the city's tourism performance, campaigns, festivals and events, and strategic priorities for the year ahead. Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said, 'Building on yet another record-breaking performance in 2024, the exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 is a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners.' He added, 'In advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, our focus remains on strengthening the spirit of partnerships, embracing innovation, and creating future-ready experiences that enhance Dubai's position as the world's best city to visit, live and work in. 'As we look ahead to the second half of this year and beyond, we will harness the key elements that have driven the industry's steady growth - a robust and diversified market strategy, a solid collaboration model between the government and private sectors, and global campaigns showcasing the ever-evolving diverse destination offering.' Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said, 'Dubai's vibrant calendar of festivals and events reflects our city's bold vision and boundless ambition - a testament to our commitment to innovation, excellence, and global leadership. These world-class experiences are not only a key driver of visitation but also vital to nurturing the pillars of our economy, from retail and hospitality to aviation and business events.' Key industry updates included Dubai welcoming 7.15 million international overnight visitors between January and April 2025, a 7 per cent YoY increase. This builds on the 18.72 million people who visited in 2024, the second consecutive year of record-setting growth for the city. The event highlighted key initiatives that reinforce Dubai's contribution to community, accessibility and sustainability. Central to these efforts is the city's achievement in becoming the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere. Under DET's leadership, in collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the initiative has already trained more than 70,000 individuals through the Dubai College of Tourism's autism and sensory awareness course. Meanwhile, over 300 hotels have actively engaged in the certification process to deliver accessible experiences to all visitors. Another significant project that was highlighted at the event was the launch of the 'MyDubai Communities' digital platform in April. It is designed to strengthen community bonds and promote the values of tolerance and coexistence, offering access to more than 100 interest-based communities. During the City Briefing, the new 'Dubai. That's How You Summer' campaign was presented, promoted across various media channels and told through the stories of a wide range of advocates. The campaign positions Dubai as a must-visit summer destination. Another major global campaign launched by DET in 2025 was 'Find Your Story', starring Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi. In the captivating brand film, the story reveals the exciting adventures that travellers can enjoy in the city, even during a brief stopover, and highlights Dubai's desert landscapes and futuristic architecture. The return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) - the city's much-anticipated summer festival - was announced at the briefing. Taking place from 27th June to 31st August 2025, DSS will deliver a vibrant calendar of sales, prize draws, entertainment and cultural experiences for residents and visitors of all ages. This year's DSS will also be structured into three retail periods - Summer Holiday Offers, The Great Summer Sale, and Back to School - to drive consumer engagement and maintain momentum. WAM
Zawya
11-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai DET highlights community effort and industry growth momentum at first City Briefing of 2025
Interactive event explored tourism strategies and opportunities to enhance campaigns and initiatives to further reinforce Dubai's global appeal Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) yesterday (10 June) hosted its first City Briefing of 2025, a key bi-annual stakeholder engagement platform that further reinforces Dubai's collaborative approach to tourism growth. Held at the Coca-Cola Arena, the briefing brought together more than 1,300 industry leaders and professionals from across the hospitality, aviation, retail and F&B sectors, along with representatives from government entities. Reflecting the UAE Year of Community's focus on building a connected society grounded in belonging and shared purpose, the briefing highlighted the critical role that partners across the public and private sectors are playing in Dubai's continued tourism performance. Embracing the spirit of the theme, the event was more interactive than ever, with stakeholders providing insights and expertise that is poised to feed into DET's strategy and initiatives going forward, and further elevate the city's appeal to global leisure and business audiences. In the presence of His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, the latest edition provided a comprehensive update on the city's tourism performance, campaigns, festivals and events, and strategic priorities for the year ahead. The City Briefing serves as a pivotal instrument to align stakeholders with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and further enhance shared responsibility in propelling Dubai's development as a welcoming global destination. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: 'The visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is reflected in the continued success of our tourism sector. Building on yet another record-breaking performance in 2024, the exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 is a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners. From hospitality and aviation to retail and gastronomy, every sector has played a critical role in solidifying Dubai's position as a global tourism leader. It is by coming together as a community that we have been able to navigate challenges, create compelling narratives about the city, and drive global trends. 'In advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, our focus remains on strengthening the spirit of partnerships, embracing innovation, and creating future-ready experiences that enhance Dubai's position as the world's best city to visit, live and work in. We are also collectively driving initiatives that enhance social inclusion, talent development and quality of life, while strengthening community bonds, promoting values, and instilling a sense of belonging. As we look ahead to the second half of this year and beyond, we will harness the key elements that have driven the industry's steady growth – a robust and diversified market strategy, a solid collaboration model between the government and private sectors, and global campaigns showcasing the ever-evolving diverse destination offering.' His Excellency Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: 'Dubai's vibrant calendar of festivals and events reflects our city's bold vision and boundless ambition – a testament to our commitment to innovation, excellence, and global leadership. These world-class experiences are not only a key driver of visitation but also vital to nurturing the pillars of our economy, from retail and hospitality to aviation and business events. They continue to provide unique opportunities for our communities, including both visitors and residents, to enjoy the city's offerings and engage with key destination pillars. As we build on the momentum of past successes and look ahead to the rest of 2025, we remain committed to curating world-class experiences and delivering sustained impact year-round, aligned with the goals of the D33 Agenda to further consolidate Dubai's position as a leading global destination for business and leisure.' Key industry updates included Dubai welcoming 7.15 million international overnight visitors between January and April 2025, a 7% YoY increase. This builds on the 18.72 million people who visited in 2024, the second consecutive year of record-setting growth for the city. Dubai's hotel sector offered 153,534 rooms at the end of April, with all key performance indicators demonstrating strong YoY growth. Beyond the data, the forum reaffirmed DET's commitment to creating a resilient and future-ready tourism ecosystem. Innovative Initiatives for Accessibility and Community The event highlighted key initiatives that reinforce Dubai's contribution to community, accessibility and sustainability. Central to these efforts is the city's achievement in becoming the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere. Under DET's leadership, in collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the initiative has already involved the training of more than 70,000 individuals through the Dubai College of Tourism's autism and sensory awareness course. Meanwhile, more than 300 hotels have actively engaged in the certification process to deliver accessible experiences to all visitors. This milestone directly aligns with the D33 Agenda's key priorities of enhancing social inclusion, talent development and quality of life. Another significant project that was highlighted at the event was the launch of the 'MyDubai Communities' digital platform in April by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The initiative is designed to strengthen community bonds and promote the values of tolerance and coexistence, offering access to more than 100 interest-based communities. These groups provide users with a unique opportunity to connect over shared passions and interests, fostering a sense of belonging and creativity. His Excellency Issam Kazim added: "The Certified Autism Destination™ and MyDubai Communities programmes are both testament to our collective drive to shape a future-ready society. These initiatives not only enhance Dubai's destination offering – they speak to the heart of our identity as a city built on opportunity, diversity and strong community values, ensuring a richer experience for both residents and visitors.' Campaigns Showcase Dubai's Diverse Offering Aligned with the long-term objectives of the D33 Agenda, DET's dynamic global marketing campaigns continue to be a key driver of visitation by showcasing Dubai to new international audiences and promoting the city's diverse tourism offerings. During the City Briefing, the new 'Dubai. That's How You Summer' campaign was presented; promoted across various media channels and told through the stories of a wide range of advocates, the campaign positions Dubai as a must-visit summer destination where 'everyone can master the art of doing nothing – while doing everything'. Another major global campaign launched by DET in 2025 was 'Find Your Story', starring Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi. In the captivating brand film, the story reveals the exciting adventures that travellers can enjoy in the city, even during a brief stopover, and highlights Dubai's desert landscapes and futuristic architecture. DSS To Build On Summer Excitement His Excellency Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) also presented at the City Briefing and spoke about how Dubai's robust year-round calendar of events and festivals continues to be a vital component of the tourism ecosystem. The return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) – the city's much-anticipated summer festival – was announced at the briefing. Taking place from 27 June to 31 August 2025, DSS will deliver a vibrant calendar of sales, prize draws, entertainment and cultural experiences for residents and visitors of all ages. This year's DSS will also be structured into three retail periods – Summer Holiday Offers, The Great Summer Sale, and Back to School – to drive consumer engagement and maintain momentum. In the second half of 2025, other major upcoming events on the city's annual Retail Calendar include Dubai Home Festival, Dubai Fitness Challenge, and Dubai Shopping Festival. A growing pipeline of international business events, which attract thousands of delegates, was also announced at the City Briefing, reflecting Dubai's status as a premier destination for meetings and exhibitions. Global Gastronomy Hub Dubai's food scene is a key driver for the city's tourism sector, and as revealed in the Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report, published by DET, the city issued around 1,200 new restaurant licences in 2024. The fourth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai, unveiled last month, reflects Dubai's fast-growing and diverse culinary scene. The 2025 Guide featured 119 restaurants across 35 cuisines, a 12.3% increase from 106 restaurants in 2024, including Dubai's first MICHELIN three-starred restaurants, FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio. This year's Guide also included 3 MICHELIN two-starred restaurants, 14 MICHELIN one-starred restaurants, 22 Bib Gourmand restaurants, and 3 restaurants awarded a MICHELIN Green Star. Feedback was gathered from stakeholders throughout the City Briefing, to inform and shape DET's plans going forward and leverage opportunities for Dubai. The event concluded with a strong call to action for stakeholders to maintain their momentum and continued partnership throughout the year. About Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) With the ultimate vision of making Dubai the world's leading commercial centre, investment hub and tourism destination, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandated to support the Government in positioning the emirate as a major hub for global economy and tourism, and in boosting the city's economic and tourism competitiveness indicators, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate's economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities over the next decade. Under this remit, DET is driving efforts to further enhance Dubai's diversified, innovative service-based economy to attract top global talent, deliver a world-class business environment and accelerate productivity growth. Additionally, DET is supporting Dubai's vision to become the world's best city to visit, live and work in by promoting its diverse destination proposition, unique lifestyle and outstanding quality of life, overall. DET is the principal authority for planning, supervising, developing and marketing Dubai's business and tourism sectors. It is also responsible for licensing and classifying all types of businesses, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. DET's portfolio includes Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), Dubai SME, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT). For further information, please contact: mediarelations@
Mediapart
04-06-2025
- Business
- Mediapart
Le plus grand centre de demande de visa au monde ouvre à Dubaï
Future-ready, culturally grounded, and AI-powered — Dubai's new hub will serve 37 governments Conçu comme un modèle mondial de nouvelle génération pour les centres de visa, établissant de nouvelles normes en matière de service, de sécurité et d'expérience client Construit pour accompagner la croissance de la demande de voyages à l'étranger depuis les Émirats, avec une capacité de 10 000 demandes par jour 37 gouvernements clients. Plus de 200 guichets de dépôt. Une destination puissante et unifiée pour des services de visa intelligents VFS Global, a global leader in trusted technology services, facilitating secure international mobility for governments and citizens, announced the opening of its flagship Visa Application Centre in Wafi City, Dubai, marking the launch of the world's largest visa application facility. The centre was inaugurated by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri , Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri , Director General of General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai; and Mr. Zubin Karkaria , Founder and Group CEO of VFS Global. Agrandir l'image : Illustration 1 Agrandissement : Illustration 1 Fermer His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri said: 'This milestone is more than just an infrastructure achievement—it reflects Dubai's strategic direction to strengthen global mobility, open access to opportunities, and accelerate the growth of our tourism and business economy. As we pursue the objectives of Dubai's D33 Economic Agenda, ensuring seamless access to and from Dubai remains a priority. Visa facilitation is a critical lever to attract talent, grow tourism, and strengthen international partnerships—all key to positioning Dubai as the most connected and forward-looking city in the world.' Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global Group, said: 'Having established a presence in the Emirates since 2004, our journey has been marked by unwavering commitment and a deep connection to this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. Over two decades, we have witnessed the spectacular growth of the Emirates, which has become a leading global center for business, technological innovation, and strategic thinking. In line with Dubai's rapid development, we are pleased today to launch the world's largest visa application center, serving more than 200 nationalities, in this Year of Community. Working with Emirati entrepreneurs and artists, the center reflects the multicultural fabric of the country we are proud to call our global headquarters. Designed to meet the growing demand for international travel and security, accessibility, and comfort, this ultra-modern center in Dubai sets a new global benchmark—designed not only for today, but also for the needs of tomorrow. With nearly 14,000 square meters, the center can process up to 10,000 visa applications per day—a world record for a single location—and is supported by a skilled and diverse team of more than 400 professionals from over 25 nationalities. Among its main features: Technology-assisted self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and copy stations for last-minute needs Interactive touchscreen terminals, QR code check-in and automatic feedback at each counter More than 400 employees equipped with tablets to help applicants, supported by trained volunteers Intuitive airport-style signage, large waiting areas and cart service for easy movement Prayer spaces, children's play areas and comfort zones for a truly user-centric experience ESG-compliant design, energy-efficient systems and priority lanes for seniors, families and people with disabilities With the increase in international travel from the Emirates, personalized services like the Premium Lounge have become the preferred choice for applicants seeking comfort and convenience. Of the 200+ drop-off counters, 79 are exclusively reserved for the Premium service. The center is one of the few to also offer the Platinum Lounge, with personalized service including a private chauffeur, comprehensive support, and a modern, relaxing setting. At the heart: artificial intelligence and innovation With real-time document validation and state-of-the-art biometric systems, the on-site AI Innovation Hub ensures smarter, faster, and more secure processing. This is complemented by a scanning center that converts paper documents into secure digital files, and a Global Resilience Center (GRC) that ensures 24/7 availability, data protection, and service continuity for all partner governments. VFS Global has integrated technology into every step of the process to revolutionize the visa application experience. Visitors use e-tickets via QR code upon arrival, guided by an advanced queue management system. This intelligent system, combined with electronic screens and mobile notifications, significantly reduces waiting time and optimizes applicant flow—even during peak periods. By combining technological innovation with human expertise, the center redefines the visa application process as a seamless, transparent, and efficient one. The opening of the world's largest visa application center in Dubai demonstrates VFS Global's commitment to the government's "We the UAE 2031" vision. Aligned with the Year of Community 2025, this center sets a new global standard for service excellence, while incorporating Emirati cultural works that celebrate Dubai's community spirit. This iconic facility embodies a new model—blending cutting-edge technology and local values to ensure a future of secure, connected, and community-driven travel. VFS Global has been present in the UAE since 2002 as the official visa service provider for Emirates Airlines passengers, and has established its headquarters in Dubai since 2013.
Gulf Business
30-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Full details: Inside the world's largest visa application centre in Dubai
Image credit: Supplied VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services that enable secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has announced the launch of its flagship visa application centre in Dubai's Wafi City. This marks the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai; and Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the VFS Global Group. 'This milestone is more than just an infrastructure achievement — it reflects the strategic direction Dubai is taking to enhance global mobility, unlock opportunities, and accelerate growth across our visitor and business economy. As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, seamless access to and from Dubai remains a priority. Visa facilitation is a key enabler of talent attraction, tourism development, and international partnerships — all critical components of our strategy to position Dubai as the world's most connected and future-ready city,' said Helal Saeed Almarri. Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri commented, 'Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the UAE's journey of excellence, particularly for Dubai, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre. Located in the heart of a city that constantly redefines innovation, this achievement reflects our wise leadership's directives to reinforce the UAE's position as a global hub for smart services and to set a benchmark in efficient, high-quality government services. Continuous development is not optional — it is a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Zubin Karkaria added, 'Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been shaped by an unwavering commitment and a strong connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. Over the past two decades, we have witnessed the UAE's spectacular growth into a global hub for business, innovation, and technology. Today, we are proud to launch the world's largest visa application centre, serving over 200 nationalities in this Year of Community. By collaborating with Emirati entrepreneurs and artists, the centre embodies the multicultural fabric of a country we are proud to call our Global Headquarters.' A next-gen experience for tomorrow's travellers Built to address rising outbound travel and growing expectations around security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art centre in Dubai sets a new global standard. Spanning nearly 150,000 square feet, it can handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily — the highest capacity at any single location. The facility is supported by a team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities. Key features of the centre include: Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and photocopy stations for last-minute needs Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins, and automated feedback at each visa desk Over 400 on-site staff equipped with tablets, along with trained volunteers to assist with forms and kiosks Airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, and a buggy service for easy movement Dedicated prayer rooms, kids' play areas, and multiple convenience zones to enhance the customer experience ESG-compliant design, with energy-efficient systems and fast-track lanes for seniors, families, and persons with disabilities With rising outbound travel from the UAE, personalised services like the Premium Lounge have become increasingly popular. Of the over 200 submission counters, 79 are exclusively designated as Premium Lounges. The centre is also one of the few worldwide — and one of only two in the UAE — to offer the Platinum Lounge, featuring a chauffeur service, end-to-end application support, and a calm, modern environment. At the core: AI and innovation From real-time document validation to advanced biometrics, the on-site AI Innovation Hub enables faster, more secure processing. Supporting this are a Digitisation Centre that transforms paper documents into secure digital records and a Global Resilience Center (GRC) that ensures 24/7 operational uptime, data security, and continuity for partner governments. VFS Global has embedded technology throughout the applicant journey to revolutionise the visa submission process. Visitors use QR code-based e-tokens for check-in, guided by a smart queue management system that includes electronic displays and mobile updates to reduce wait times and manage applicant flow — even during peak hours. By integrating cutting-edge innovation with human expertise, the centre delivers a visa application experience that is seamless, transparent, and efficient. A vision aligned with the UAE's future The launch of the world's largest Visa Application Centre in Dubai reinforces VFS Global's commitment to the UAE Government's 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Aligned with the Year of Community 2025, the centre not only sets a new global benchmark in service excellence but also celebrates Dubai's vibrant communities through Emirati cultural installations. This flagship facility represents a new model — one that blends breakthrough technology with local values to ensure a future of secure, connected, and community-driven travel. VFS Global has been associated with the UAE since 2002 as the official visa service provider for Emirates Airlines passengers and has maintained its global headquarters in Dubai since 2013.
