The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled multiple-entry five-year visa system for tourists for the first time.
The country took the decision in the first meeting of its cabinet of the year on Monday with an aim to establish the UAE as a 'major global tourism destination'.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said the new visa system would allow tourists multiple entries into the country over five years.
The decision is a part of the country's wider plans to prepare the UAE for the next 50 years of development, reports Gulf News.
On his Twitter page, Sheikh Mohammed said: “Today, we have reviewed achievements made over the past year… we planned for 2020 to be a different year as it marks the year of preparation for the upcoming 50 years (2020: towards the next 50). It is the year in which we design the future of the UAE.”.
The new visa rule targets all nationalities and aims to entrench the UAE’s position as a key global tourist destination. However, there was no specific announcement about visa application fee.
At present, the UAE welcomes about 21 million visitors each year.
Currently, tourists can visit the UAE with a free multiple entry visa for up to 90 days, from the date of entry.
