Since 11 December, 2024, all domestic worker visa services in Dubai are available through the ‘Domestic Worker Package’ on the Dubai Now app. This new initiative simplifies the visa process for users.
It is launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai).
The package reduces the number of service channels from four to one, cutting transaction steps from twelve to four. Previously, the process was cumbersome and time-consuming, requiring multiple service channels, numerous steps, and visits to different centres. Applicants had to navigate through four separate service channels, complete twelve steps to complete their transactions, and make as many as eight visits to service centres. The entire process sometimes took up to 30 days to be completed.
Additionally, applicants were required to submit ten different documents and bear a higher transaction cost. This complex system often led to delays, confusion, and increased costs, causing frustration for both applicants and service providers.
With this app, the number of visits to service centres is now lowered from eight to two. Processing time is also reduced from 30 days to just five. In addition, the required documents have been reduced from ten to four, which lowers the cost by Dirham 400 (around Rs 9,237) per transaction.
Using the Dubai Now app, users can fill out a unified form, provide personal and passport details, and electronically sign contracts. The app also streamlines medical exams and the issuance of UAE identity and residency permits, ensuring a faster and more efficient process.
