Dubai Entices Visitors with Tourism Membership and Extended Benefits

Dubai has introduced new incentives for tourists wishing to return, through the 'Dubai Loyalty Card' program, which links a five-year membership to a multi-entry visa and offers covering accommodation, shopping, and entertainment, in a move aimed at encouraging visitors to return to the emirate through a more seamless and diverse experience.

The program targets repeat visitors, but it does not allow open enrollment for everyone; membership is granted via an invitation system through selected partners in the business, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Interest can be registered via the 'Visit Dubai' platform, provided that acceptance and visa issuance remain subject to established procedures and approvals.

The package includes a credit of up to 2,000 dirhams to be used at participating hotels, tourist destinations, and shops, in addition to a free SIM card from 'du' and privileges through the 'Happiness Card'. These benefits provide visitors with options to take advantage of their subsequent trips, with announcements of additional services to be added in the future.

The application fee is 4,032.50 dirhams, with an additional 650 dirhams if the application is submitted from within the UAE. The file requires a personal photo, a passport, a bank statement for the last six months, health insurance, and a round-trip ticket, while processing the application usually takes about 48 hours after completing the documents and paying the fees, though the duration may vary depending on the case.

Although the visa is valid for five years, it does not grant continuous residency throughout this period; the issuing authority's regulations limit the stay to ninety days per year, whether consecutive or intermittent, with the possibility of extending it according to conditions up to a maximum of 180 days. Thus, the program combines the facilitation of repeat travel with tourism spending incentives, as part of Dubai's efforts to strengthen the long-term connection of its visitors to the city.