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Visa holders living in Dubai face new rules

Catherine Deshayes

The renewal of residency visas for families is now linked to the size of the family and the size of the accommodation they are staying in, so visa will be harder to get

The rate of population expansion in Dubai is not abating; so far there are 1.4 million people living in the emirate, of which at least 75% are expatriates, drawn by the tax advantages, property opportunities and climate.

By 2020 it is predicted that the population will grow to reach four million, but, following new regulations from the Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department, (DNRD), it may now be that much harder to renew residency visas.

Large families that live in small properties will be hit hard by the new rules. Brigadier Obeid Muheir bin Suroor, Acting Director of the DNRD said, "The DNRD will not be issuing or renewing residency visas for families unless they are staying in proper accommodation, which can feasibly accommodate the size of the family."

The DNRD department had tightened up previous rulings on the visas, and those applying for visas must now provide proof that they have a proper place to accommodate the family.

This proof can be a tenancy contract or a letter from the person's sponsoring company stating it has provided accommodation for the applicant's family. The accommodation can be located in a building, a hotel apartment or a separate house.