Dubai to pay residents AED 3000 for bringing family, friends to visit

Dubai residency program through real estate in 2026

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has introduced A Dubai Invite, a new referral programme that rewards UAE residents and citizens for inviting family members and friends from abroad to visit Dubai.

Under the initiative, residents whose guests arrive in Dubai between July 20 and October 31, 2026, can receive reward packages valued at more than Dh3,000, including hotel stays, dining vouchers, attraction tickets, and lifestyle benefits.

How the programme works

Eligible residents must register their visitors through the programme’s online nomination form before their arrival in Dubai. Participants can nominate up to five visitors per submission, with additional nominations allowed through separate applications.

Once the nominated guests arrive in Dubai, their entry will be verified automatically. Residents will then receive an email within 72 hours containing their reward package and redemption details. The benefits will remain valid until December 31, 2026, unless stated otherwise.

Eligibility criteria

The programme is open to:

  • UAE citizens and residents aged 18 or above
  • Holders of a valid Emirates ID
  • Visitors who are not UAE residents
  • Guests travelling on a valid tourist visa or eligible for visa-on-arrival
  • Visitors entering Dubai by air, sea, or road between July 20 and October 31, 2026

DET clarified that the programme does not cover visa arrangements, and visitors are responsible for obtaining the required travel documents.

Rewards and participating brands

Each successful nomination unlocks benefits worth more than Dh3,000, covering:

  • Hotel stays
  • Restaurant offers
  • Tourist attractions
  • Lifestyle services

Participating brands include W Dubai Mina Seyahi, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, Meliá Desert Palm, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Careem, and Hala.

Each eligible resident can receive up to three reward packages during the campaign.

Key conditions

DET stated that each visitor can only be nominated once throughout the programme. If the same visitor has already been registered by another resident, any subsequent nomination will not qualify for rewards.

The department also confirmed that residents do not need to report their guests’ arrival, as the verification process is carried out automatically. Reward emails will begin rolling out from August 2026.

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