The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA) has announced its readiness to implement the grace period procedures aimed at helping residents and visitors rectify their visa status. This initiative, introduced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), is set to commence on September 1st, 2024, and will run for a period of two months.
Full Readiness for Implementation
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director-General of the GDRFA, confirmed the department’s complete preparedness to roll out the grace period initiative. This move reflects Dubai’s commitment to promoting community values such as tolerance, compassion, and respect. Brigadier Salah Al Qamzi, Assistant Director-General of the Follow-up Sector for Violators and Foreigners in Dubai, emphasized that the GDRFA is ready to support all residents and visitors wishing to take advantage of this opportunity.
Where and How to Rectify Visa Status
Residents and visitors can access services related to the grace period through 86 Amer Model Centres spread across Dubai, in addition to a specialized facility in the Al Aweer area dedicated to resolving the status of visa violators. The Amer Centres will offer comprehensive status amendment services, including processing stay extensions for those who wish to remain in the country and issuing departure permits for individuals with prior biometric fingerprinting (Emirati ID holders).
The Al Aweer centre will focus specifically on handling cases related to the Follow-up Sector for Violators and Foreigners, providing all necessary support to streamline the status adjustment process and issuing departure permits as needed.
Encouraging Use of Official Channels
Brigadier Al Qamzi highlighted that all necessary facilities and amenities will be available to make the rectification process as smooth as possible. He also urged individuals to seek accurate information from official sources and avoid falling prey to misinformation or rumors.
The grace period presents an invaluable chance for residents and visitors in Dubai to rectify their visa status without facing penalties, aligning with the city’s broader vision of enhancing the community’s well-being and upholding the rule of law. Those interested in taking advantage of this initiative are encouraged to begin preparations and engage with the appropriate authorities as soon as the grace period begins.
