Residency Visa Renewal Linked to Traffic Fine Settlement in Dubai

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai residents are now required to settle all outstanding traffic fines before processing a renewal, or cancellation visa application. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has launched an electronic system that integrates residency-related transactions with the Dubai Police Traffic Fines System. Currently, in its pilot phase, this system mandates the clearance of traffic fines before any residency-related requests are processed. The requirement now applies to all Dubai UAE residents, except those holding a freezone-sponsored employment residence permit.

This initiative aims to reinforce adherence to local regulations and is part of a broader initiative to enhance legal compliance and promote Dubai as a law-abiding city.

Deloitte’s view

Employees must settle their traffic fines to prevent any delays with their immigration process. These fines are personal fines and can be paid via various channels, including the RTA application, Dubai Police application, or website. 

Moving forward, employers or their immigration service providers should ensure they are flagging this requirement with employees ahead of any immigration process to prevent any delays.

Notice

The above is only a brief summary of the current update, is valid at the time of circulation and is based only on information currently available in the public domain which is subject to change. This alert has been written in general terms and does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by Deloitte and therefore cannot be relied on to cover specific situations; application of the principles set out will depend upon the particular circumstances involved and we highly recommend that you obtain professional advice before acting or refraining from acting on any of the contents of this publication. 

Deloitte and Touche Middle East would be pleased to advise readers on how to apply the principles set out in this publication to their specific circumstances. Deloitte accepts no duty of care or liability for any loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication.

Contacts

Our immigrations experts listed below would be happy to discuss the above matters in more detail or support you through a further discussion on your specific requirements.