Digital Dubai

Policy & Legal Updates

Dubai Launches Direct Platform Visa Applications and Five-Year Access Club

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum introduced new regulatory and digital initiatives permitting visitors to apply directly for tourist visas through the Visit Dubai platform starting November 2026. The launch also features the invitation-only Dubai Access Club, offering repeat visitors a five-year multi-entry visa permitting stays of up to 90 days annually. Visa applications continue to be vetted and formally approved by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.

Policy & Legal Updates

Dubai Enables Direct Tourist Visa Applications via Visit Dubai Portal

Dubai has introduced regulatory updates permitting international visitors to apply directly for tourist visas via the Visit Dubai website starting November 2026. Entry permits will continue to be verified and issued by the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai. The emirate also unveiled the Dubai Access Club for frequent visitors.

Industry News

Dubai Real GDP Reaches AED 473 Billion in First Half of 2026

Dubai's real gross domestic product reached approximately AED 473 billion in the first half of 2026, according to data from the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment at Digital Dubai. Nominal GDP at current prices grew 0.2 percent to AED 505 billion, despite a 2.3 percent contraction in real GDP compared to H1 2025. Growth was anchored by the healthcare, financial, and construction sectors, offsetting contractions in wholesale and retail trade as well as transport.