Dubai announces special privileges for residents, sponsors with clean residency records over last 10 years

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai has launched the 'Ideal Face' initiative, granting special privileges to residents and Emirati sponsors who have complied with UAE residency laws for the past 10 years. The program, set to begin on November 1, rewards individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to adhering to the country’s regulations.

The initiative aims to recognize those who "embody the 'Ideal Face' of Dubai through their dedication to following residency regulations", according to a statement from the GDRFA.

The special privileges include several benefits for eligible individuals:

- Priority call service when contacting the Amer Call Centre

- Access to a dedicated service queue to expedite their turn at Amer Centres

- Receiving an 'Ideal Face' digital appreciation certificate

- Special services for senior citizens, delivered directly at their residences via a mobile service vehicle

However, these privileges apply exclusively to individuals and do not extend to establishments. The eligibility criteria for the initiative are as follows:

- Must be a UAE citizen or foreign resident

- Must have lived in Dubai for at least 10 years

- Must be a sponsor of one or more individuals who have not committed any residency violations in the past 10 years

- The sponsor must not have any recorded residency violations in the current year

GDRFA emphasized that the initiative "offers all community members the opportunity to be a part of reinforcing social security and safety by pledging to continue adhering to UAE residency laws". Additionally, GDRFA has called upon all citizens, residents and visitors to join the program by committing to ongoing compliance with the country's residency regulations.