The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has announced the conclusion of registrations for its ‘A Dubai Invite’ program, which attracted over 90,000 applications from residents. This remarkable response highlights the strong desire of Dubai’s residents to share their city with friends and family from around the world, as reported by Economy Middle East.
While new registrations have closed, benefits will still be available for residents who successfully registered visitors before the program’s final allocation. To date, over 30,000 benefit packages have been distributed, with eligible visitors able to arrive until October 31, 2026. This initiative underscores the vital role of the visiting friends and relatives (VFR) segment in Dubai’s tourism ecosystem.
Expanded Benefits for Residents
Launched on July 20, ‘A Dubai Invite’ was designed to acknowledge the significant role residents play in promoting Dubai. Due to high demand, DET and its partners increased the number of exclusive benefit packages available by more than three times. Eligible visitors must arrive directly in Dubai from outside the UAE and before the October deadline, with confirmations processed through a unified verification system supported by the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Benefits for successful applicants are distributed within 72 hours of their guests’ arrival and remain valid at participating venues until December 31, 2026. Noor Al Geziry, AVP of Special Projects & MENA at DET, noted that the program’s success reflects residents’ eagerness to share their experiences of Dubai, reinforcing the city’s appeal as a top destination.
Community Engagement and Tourism Advocacy
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to engage Dubai’s diverse resident community, which comprises individuals from nearly 200 nationalities. This community plays a crucial role in shaping visitors’ experiences through personal recommendations. The success of ‘A Dubai Invite’ aligns with the UAE’s Year of Family, emphasizing the importance of family connections as residents welcome loved ones to the city.
Participating partners in the program offered a range of exclusive benefits, including hospitality, dining, and lifestyle experiences at various hotels and attractions across Dubai. Notable partners included W Dubai Mina Seyahi and Aquaventure Waterpark, among others. Additionally, Careem provided complimentary membership and transport rebates to enhance the visitor experience.
DET’s ongoing commitment to the VFR segment and its collaborative approach with public and private sector stakeholders aim to further promote Dubai as a premier destination for visitors. The department plans to continue working closely with tourism partners and the resident community to encourage exploration of the city’s extensive offerings.
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