According to the new visa rules to be implemented from July 29, 2008, people of all nationalities will be allowed to enter the country on a tourist visa. As per the earlier visa policies, the nationals from 79 countries were not eligible for tourist visas and could come to the UAE only on a visit visa. However, the tourist visas can only be applied for by a licensed hotel or a tourism agency.
Major General Mohammad Ahmad Al Merri, DG, Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department, said, "The new rules will encourage the tourism sector in the country".
The new UAE visa rule also makes it mandatory for the 34 nationalities to pay Dh100 for a 30-day visit visa that earlier got a free visit visa for 60 days upon arrival in the UAE. Those who apply for visa before July 29 will be dealt according to the existing visa policies.
