IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change?  Dubai is launching Amer Business Centers that will centralize visa and residency services and replace typing center by Nov. 1.

What does the change mean? The centers will provide services for foreign residents, including visa and residency applications, residency renewals, visa cancellations and related applications. 

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing until Nov. 1.
• Visas/permits affected: Visa and residency applications, renewals, cancellations and related services in Dubai.
• Who is affected: Foreign residents and visa applicants in Dubai.
• Impact on processing times: The centers should improve overall procedures, although they may not directly impact processing times.
• Business impact: Foreign residents conducting immigration transactions will no longer need to visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs main office or its branches.

Background: The Amer Business Centers are being introduced in response to business requests. The centers will be staffed by personnel from the Directorate and will replace some 600 typing centers by November.

BAL Analysis: The centers are expected to reduce queues and wait times and improve the application process. The centers are currently open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; after Ramadan, normal business hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.