Complete Guide to ICA Smart Services for Travellers and Returnees to Dubai

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Last updated 24 May 2021

UAE is now open for tourists and returning residents alike and as per the guidelines provided by Dubai Tourism (The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing).

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship(ICA) has launched its Smart Services program to further facilitate citizens and residents looking to return to the UAE. Read ahead to know more about the services offered, like visa validity check and entry approvals through the Smart Services program.

ICA Smart Service

The ICA Smart Services provide UAE and foreign nationals a centralized portal from which they may access various services pertaining to visa inquiries, permit inquiries, payment of fees and fines and personal information updates.

The system provides a range of services for individuals according to each category, as follows:

1. Citizens: Individual citizens can apply for services related to citizens (passport services, family book services, Emirates ID services) and services for the sponsored.
2. UAE Residents: Individual residents can apply for services of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, such as visa, residency and Emirates ID services, for themselves and their sponsored.
3. GCC Citizens: GCC citizens can apply for services related to their sponsored in addition to the services of the Emirates ID.
4. GCC Residents: GCC residents can apply for services related to entry visas to the country for this category and administer the visa after its issuance.
5. Visitors: Visitors can apply for services related to entry visas to the country by category and manage the visa after its issuance.

You can access these services through the official website or via mobile applications, available both on iOS and Android.

Entry approval

Expatriate residents returning to the 6 emirates other than Dubai no longer need approval from ICA to return to the UAE.

Although you no longer need approval from Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) to enter the UAE, you are still recommended to visit uaeentry.ica.gov.aeand enter your passport number, Emirates ID number, nationality and passport type to receive instant verification of your entry status.

Visa validity check

If you're planning to visit the UAE, you are required to apply for a visa, even if you're just transiting through Abu Dhabi. Only UAE nationals, residents with a valid residence visa, and eligible for a visa on arrivalcan enter the UAE through Abu Dhabi's airports. All other types of visas remain suspended.

If you already have an entry permit/residence visa to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah check your visa validityon the website ICA smart services website.

To track your visa application, you need the application number and reference number. When you submit your visa application to any visa service provider, ask them to give you the application number and reference number so you can track the visa yourself through here.

Alternatively, for any enquiry regarding visa issuance, types and validity, communicate with ICAat the toll free number 600522222 or through ICA feedback platform.

Step by step guide for returnees

In a nutshell, follow this step-by-step guide for your return to the UAE.

Step 1:Ensure that your documents are valid. You can do so by registering yourself to the ICA Smart Services here.

Step 2: Learn about the rules and requirements of both your airline and airport. Also, please check for any pre-travel approvals set by your country of departure.

Step 3:Conduct an RT-PCR test at designated laboratories. Be sure to bring the test certificate with you.

Step 4:Book your ticket.

Step 5:Ensure that you have the Al Hosn app installed. Dubai residents are also required to install the DXB Smart App.

Step 6:On your departure date, make sure you arrive at the airport early and have your PPE ready.

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