DUBAI: The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai has confirmed the closure of all residency and passport-related offices across the UAE for the upcoming National Day holiday.
The temporary shutdown will begin on Saturday, November 30, and will last until Tuesday, December 3.
This closure includes all GDRFA offices, Amer centers, typing offices, and the Al Aweer Center, which specifically handles cases related to the exemption of violators of residency laws, visas, and visit permits.
GDRFA offices closure
The GDRFA closure comes as part of the celebrations for the UAE’s Martyrs' Day and National Day festivities. These closures will allow employees to participate in national events and celebrations, marking the country’s foundation.
The nationwide break has been anticipated by residents, who are also preparing for a long weekend, beginning Saturday, November 30, through Tuesday, December 3.
Despite the closure of many government offices, the Violators' Status Settlement Center in Al Aweer and Amer centers in Dubai will resume normal operations on Wednesday, December 4. Services will be available according to the standard working hours.
Urgent Services at Dubai Airport
During the National Day holiday, individuals requiring urgent assistance can visit the Customer Happiness Center located at Dubai International Airport, Terminal 3, Arrivals Hall. This centre will remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to accommodate those in need of urgent immigration-related services.
The GDRFA has urged all residents to resolve any visa-related matters before the start of the holiday period on November 30. This includes addressing any overstaying issues and submitting visa extension requests to avoid delays or complications during the holiday break. With the holiday shutdown affecting numerous government services, residents are advised to take swift action to regularise their status or resolve outstanding issues.
The GDRFA further recommended that all relevant offices coordinate effectively to ensure smooth operations during the holiday season and avoid any unnecessary backlog. This advice aligns with the GDRFA's long-term commitment to improving the efficiency of immigration services in the UAE.
Grace Period for Violators
In addition to the National Day holiday updates, the GDRFA reminded residents benefiting from the grace period for resolving residency law violations. This grace period, which provides exemption from late fees, is set to conclude on December 31, 2024. The GDRFA has urged individuals to take advantage of this opportunity to regularise their residency status and avoid potential penalties after the deadline.
Eid Al Etihad celebrations across UAE
While the GDRFA offices will be closed, citizens and residents are gearing up for a long weekend of celebrations for the 53rd UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. The holiday will begin on December 1, and festivities will run through December 3, with a variety of cultural and entertainment events planned across the country. The celebrations will include concerts, fireworks, parades, and patriotic performances, all showcasing the UAE’s cultural diversity and national pride.
Events will take place at various locations, including Bluewaters, JBR, Dubai Festival City, and Al Seef, with spectacular fireworks displays set for December 1, 2, and 3. Global Village will also host a festive celebration, and Hatta Heritage Village will be transformed into a hub of cultural activities. Emirati cuisine and traditional performances will be featured, alongside international music acts.
This year's National Day marks the 53rd anniversary of the UAE’s founding in 1971, when six emirates united to form the nation. The celebrations will also honour the sacrifices made by martyrs, commemorated on November 30.