Dubai residents can now renew their visas quickly and efficiently with the launch of an advanced AI-powered digital platform by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
The platform, named Salama, enables visa renewals within minutes, significantly reducing processing time. It also allows users to download the updated document instantly, eliminating the need for paperwork and long wait times.
How It Works
Once a user logs in, the AI system automatically retrieves their details, displays visa statuses for dependents, and indicates the remaining days before expiration.
Applicants can then select their preferred renewal duration, and the system processes the request instantly. The platform simplifies the process for family members, making renewals seamless and efficient.
Faster Processing Times
Previously, visa renewal could take between one to three hours, depending on document verification. However, Ghaleb Abdullah Mohammed Hassan Al-Majid, Director of the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Department, highlighted that the new system has reduced processing time to just one to two minutes—provided all required documents are in order.
Currently, this service is available only for residency visa renewals. Future phases will expand to include services for tourists, visitors, and additional GDRFA functions.
Expansion Plans
Regarding business visa renewals, Al-Majid mentioned that companies will also benefit from this system in the future, with integration into GDRFA’s smart channels and mobile applications. The platform is set to evolve further, leveraging the latest advancements in AI.
A Step Toward Digital Transformation
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, General Director of GDRFA Dubai, emphasized that this initiative is more than just a technological upgrade—it aims to redefine the customer experience. He stated,
“Digital transformation goes beyond service development; it’s about enhancing user experience and improving government efficiency. The Salama AI Platform reflects our commitment to adopting the latest technology to improve quality of life in Dubai.”
As the system expands, residents and businesses can expect a more streamlined visa process, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leader in digital government services.
