The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionize the process of obtaining residency visas and work permits in Dubai. Spearheaded by Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the initiative, aptly named “Zero Bureaucracy,” aims to slash processing times and simplify documentation requirements, making the transition for expatriates smoother and more streamlined.
Reducing Processing Time and Documentation
Under the new directives, the cumbersome process of bringing a new employee on board, which previously took up to 30 days and necessitated a plethora of documents, has been radically transformed. Now, with the implementation of the “Employment Package,” the processing time has been dramatically reduced to just five days, accompanied by a remarkable reduction in the required documentation from 16 to a mere five.
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Digital Paradigm
Central to the initiative is the transition towards a digital paradigm, with the entire platform operating online. While the majority of services will be conducted virtually, certain aspects such as medical checks and fingerprint scanning will still require in-person verification. This seamless integration of technology not only expedites the process but also aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming a global leader in innovation and digital transformation.
Empowering Businesses, Simplifying Procedures
The initiative falls under the umbrella of the Invest in Dubai platform, signaling the government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and attracting investment. With services catering to over 275,000 companies in Dubai, the platform aims to streamline procedures, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and ultimately drive economic growth.
Projected Impact
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the far-reaching implications of the initiative, projecting a staggering reclamation of 62 million working days previously spent navigating the bureaucratic maze. Moreover, by curtailing 25 million procedures annually, substantial savings are anticipated for both the governmental and private sectors, heralding a new era of efficiency and productivity.
Collaborative EndeavorsÂ
The success of the initiative hinges on the collaborative efforts of various governmental entities, including Dubai Health, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, Dubai Economy and Tourism, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA). This cohesive approach ensures a seamless experience for expatriates and businesses alike, with the promise of further expansion to other emirates in the near future.
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As Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri, general director of GDRFA-Dubai, aptly notes, the launch of the new platform is poised to usher in a new era of efficiency, convenience, and accessibility. With an anticipated 25% increase in service transactions, the initiative reflects Dubai’s unwavering commitment to embracing innovation, fostering economic growth, and positioning itself as a global hub for talent and entrepreneurship.