Dubai ready to implement residency grace period procedures to rectify visa status

Somaya Saad, Staff Reporter

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA) affirmed its preparations to implement the procedures for the grace period to rectify the status of residence violators, announced under the decision of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), scheduled to start on September 1st, 2024, for a period of two months.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director-General of the GDRFA confirmed their full readiness to implement the initiative, which promotes the values of community tolerance and compassion and enhances the principles of respect. Brigadier Salah Al Qamzi, Assistant Director-General of the Follow-up Sector for Violators and Foreigners in Dubai, explained that GDRFA will begin implementing the grace period procedures for all residents and visitors wishing to benefit from it through the 86 Amer Model Centres across the Emirate of Dubai, in addition to the location dedicated to settling the status of violators in Al Aweer area.

Al Qamzi added that the Amer Model Centres will provide all status amendment services to everyone, including those wishing to remain in the country, and issue departure permits for those who have previously obtained biometric fingerprints (Emirati ID holders).

Meanwhile, the fingerprinting centre in Al Aweer area, he added, will be dedicated to settling the status of violators in the Follow-up Sector for Violators and Foreigners, in addition to issuing departure permits.

Brigadier Al Qamzi affirmed that all facilities and amenities that facilitate the the procedures will be provided, urging those wishing to benefit from the grace period to obtain information from official sources and not to succumb to rumours. He encouraged them to verify correct information through Amer Contact Centre via the toll number 8005111 around the clock.