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The United Arab Emirates has launched a new suite of consular services dedicated to holders of its Golden Visa, marking what government officials call a global first for non-citizen long-term residents.
Unveiled at GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai, the initiative is a joint effort by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
Among the key services:
- Return document issuance: Golden Visa holders abroad who lose or damage their passports can now obtain an electronic “return document” to re-enter the UAE. According to the authorities, the service can be completed within 30 minutes through digital channels.
- 24/7 consular hotline: Operated by MoFA, a dedicated hotline (+971 2 493 1133) will assist Golden Visa holders overseas in emergencies or when consular support or evacuation is required.
- Crisis response and emergency support: Golden Visa holders and their families will now be included in the UAE’s overseas emergency and evacuation plans through its diplomatic missions.
- Repatriation and mortuary services: In the event of death abroad, MoFA will coordinate the repatriation of remains or arrange burial in the UAE, easing the burden on families.
Officials at the launch said the initiative aligns with the UAE’s “Year of Community 2025”, under the theme “Hand in Hand”. Omar Obaid Alhesan Alshamsi, Undersecretary at MoFA, and Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of the ICP, described the programme as a milestone in institutional integration and expatriate welfare.
The measure extends privileges previously reserved for Emirati citizens to long-term residents, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global hub for talent and investment.
While details such as eligibility categories and return-document validity are still to be fully outlined, officials say full procedural guidelines will soon be published on MoFA’s official platforms.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
