Dubai’s immigration authority processed more than 7 million entry and residence permits between January and June 2026, according to figures.
The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) reported issuing 1,051,978 new residence permits and renewing a further 910,552 during the period.
Entry permits and processing times
The directorate also processed 5,078,078 entry permits. It said processing took an average of no more than four minutes, while customer satisfaction stood at 95%.
Among the visas issued, 73,551 went to nationals of certain countries who were living outside their countries of origin.
A further 29,456 permits were issued to people visiting relatives or friends. These visas allow stays of 30, 60 or 90 days, for single or multiple entries, and can be extended to a maximum of 120 days.
Other visa options
The Events Visa remained available for people attending conferences, exhibitions and other organised activities. It allows stays of 30 or 60 days and can be extended for up to 120 days.
The five-year multiple-entry tourist visa was also available during the first half of the year.
