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UAE exempts children of tourists under the age of 18 from visa fee

July 15, 2018
File photo of expats in Dubai. The UAE Cabinet announced that children of tourists, under the age of 18 visiting United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be exempted from visa fee, during the summer season from July 15 to Sept. 15 of each year. — Courtesy photo
File photo of expats in Dubai. The UAE Cabinet announced that children of tourists, under the age of 18 visiting United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be exempted from visa fee, during the summer season from July 15 to Sept. 15 of each year. — Courtesy photo

DUBAI — Children of tourists, under the age of 18 visiting United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be exempted from visa fee, during the summer season from July 15 to Sept. 15 of each year the UAE Cabinet announced on Sunday.

The new law came in support of family tourism and to reduce the cost on visitors in the holiday season.

The Cabinet’s decision reflects the UAE’s position in the global tourism sector as a prime destination attracting visitors and families from all over the world.

The new decision is in line with the growth of the tourism sector in the UAE, following the exemption of transit tourists from visa fees for the first 48 hours, it was announced on Twitter.

The number of passengers traveling through the country's airports reached 32.8 million during the first quarter of 2018.

Visitors come to the UAE to enjoy hotels and tourism services, with a number of festivals and activities happening throughout the year.

The UAE Cabinet had earlier adopted a number of strategic decisions with regards to a legislative package of visa facilitations.

UAE had adopted a slew of visa facilitations for visitors, residents, families and people overstaying their visa to cater for a wider segment of the society. The new legislative package included a review of the current residency system to allow a two-year extension of the residency period for the dependents of their parents after finishing their university studies.

UAE also been approved to exempt transit passengers from all entry fees for the first 48 hours. Transit visa can be extended for up to 96 hours for a fee of only Dh50. Obtaining transit visa will be facilitated by a number of express counter at the passport-control hall across UAE airports.

The UAE had adopted a decision to grant people overstaying their visa a chance to leave the country voluntarily without a "no entry" passport stamp. A new 6-month visa will be introduced for job seekers who overstayed their visa but wish to work in the country. The temporary visa enhances the UAE’s position as a land of opportunities and a destination for talents and professionals.

Equally, in a step aimed at simplifying the process and easing the financial burden on individuals wishing to adjust or renew their visa, they can now do so for a fee without having to leave and re-enter the country. — Agencies


July 15, 2018
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