Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has announced a new six-month multiple-entry visa for yacht crew members, enhancing maritime mobility in the emirate.
The service was revealed at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025, currently taking place at Dubai Harbour.
“A multiple-entry visa for six months for yacht crew, a new service from GDRFA Dubai to provide a smoother and more flexible maritime travel experience!” GDRFA said in a tweet.
The visa is designed to offer yacht crew members increased flexibility and convenience when travelling in and out of Dubai.
Mobile Marina launch
Alongside the visa, GDRFA also introduced the ‘Mobile Marina’ service at the event. This innovative system aims to streamline entry and exit procedures for yacht owners, offering an efficient and seamless experience. The service features a dedicated team stationed at Dubai’s marinas to assist with formalities, ensuring entry and exit transactions are processed in under 30 seconds.
Dubai International Boat Show
The 31st edition of the Dubai International Boat Show, running until 23 February at Dubai Harbour, has become a major platform for the latest maritime innovations. Visitors can explore world-class superyachts, exclusive product launches, and interact with industry experts shaping the future of luxury boating and marine services.
At its booth (MLL60), GDRFA is also showcasing other initiatives tailored for the yachting sector, including the Work Bundle, a package designed to facilitate residency and work permits, and Platform 04, a digital initiative aimed at enhancing customer engagement and feedback integration into government services.
Abu Dhabi’s Golden Visa initiative
Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi introduced a separate initiative in December 2024 under the ‘Abu Dhabi Golden Quay’ programme, offering a 10-year UAE Golden Visa to superyacht owners. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Yas Marina, seeks to attract high-net-worth individuals to the capital, providing exclusive benefits such as long-term residency, luxury experiences, and business opportunities.
The UAE Golden Visa programme offers various advantages, including the ability to stay outside the country for more than six months without invalidating residency status and a decade-long renewal period.