UAE gives Tourist Visa for all !!

People of all nationalities can now enter the UAE on a tourist visa under new rules that come into effect from next week, a senior official from the Interior Ministry said on Wednesday.

Earlier, nationals from 79 countries in the subcontinent, Middle East and elsewhere were not eligible for tourist visas and could come to the UAE only on a visit visa. "The new rules will encourage the tourism sector in the country," said Major General Mohammad Ahmad Al Merri, Director General of Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD).

Al Merri announced the new rules after a meeting with hotel and tourist agency representatives yesterday. He said travel agencies will no longer be allowed to apply for visit visas. "Now these companies will only be allowed to apply for tourist visas," he said. "This will regulate the business and make the process of people travelling to the UAE easier and smooth, as tourism is a high priority for us."

Rules

--Tourist visas can only be applied for by a licensed hotel or a tourism agency.

--Residents can apply for a visa for their spouse or blood relative.

--Expatriates will no longer be allowed to sponsor friends, and all visitors should have a health insurance cover.

--Medical treatment visas can only be applied through licensed hospitals and clinics.

--Education visas can only be applied by a licensed educational institution.

--Exhibition and conference visas can only be applied for by the organisers.

Source: Gulf News