More stories

  • in

    UAE Residents travel to Europe: Schengen visa applications surge 20%

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    6 seconds ago

    A significant uptick in Schengen visa applications from UAE residents has been reported by The Visa Services, a leading Dubai-based visa processing expert. 
    The company’s data reveals a 20% year-over-year increase in Schengen visa requests during the second quarter of 2024, underscoring Europe as a top travel destination for UAE nationals and expatriates.

    Europe Reigns Supreme as Travel Destination

    Europe captured a dominant 65% share of all travel requests processed by The Visa Services in Q2 2024, with the United States and Asia-Pacific regions following at 25% and 15% respectively. This surge in European travel coincides with a peak tourist season marked by favorable weather conditions and high-profile events such as EURO 2024, the Paris Olympics, and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.

    Diverse Applicant Base and Changing Visa Trends

    The Visa Services caters to a diverse clientele, with Russians constituting the largest group of applicants at 35%, followed by Indians at 23%. Filipinos, Egyptians, Jordanians, and South Africans also represent significant segments of the applicant pool. Notably, families account for a substantial 58% of visa inquiries.

    While the processing time for most Schengen visas is within 15 days, certain countries may extend this period to 45 days.The company reported a 22.44% rejection rate for Schengen visa applications from UAE residents in 2023, with a corresponding 77.56% approval rate.

    A notable shift in visa trends has emerged in 2024. While single-entry visas dominated in 2023, this year has witnessed a growing preference for longer validity periods. Currently, 45% of visas issued are valid for 3-6 months, while 30% extend beyond a year. Travel remains the primary purpose for visa acquisition, accounting for 70% of applications, followed by business, study, and medical reasons.

    The Visa Services

    The company’s impressive growth, marked by a tripling of completed applications in the past year, aligns with the broader expansion of outbound tourism from the GCC region. The Visa Services’ success is attributed to its reliability, expertise,and ability to meet the evolving needs of its diverse clientele.

    As the GCC travel and tourism market is projected to reach $75.64 billion by the end of 2024 and $181.48 billion by 2036, The Visa Services is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for visa services in the region.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: @spain, @germanytourism, @swedense More

  • in

    UAE unveils Blue Residency visa: A decade of residency for sustainability champions

    Lifeby Ruman Baig1 hour ago The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a significant step towards a greener future with the introduction of the revolutionary Blue Residency Visa.This 10-year residency program targets exceptional talents dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability initiatives.UAE Cabinet approves National Youth Agenda 2031; introduces ‘Blue Residency’ for sustainability experts#WamNewshttps://t.co/JQmUCL7d3T pic.twitter.com/o3KnES7dji— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) May 15, 2024Announced during a cabinet meeting led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, the Blue Residency Visa aligns perfectly with the nation’s commitment to sustainability,designated as the key focus for 2024.A Decade of Contribution, A Decade of ResidenceThe Blue Residency Visa offers a long-term residency option for individuals who have made significant contributions in various environmental areas. These fields include marine and land conservation, air quality management, cutting-edge sustainability technologies, the circular economy, and other related disciplines.“The UAE recognizes the undeniable link between a thriving economy and a healthy environment,” stated Sheikh Mohammed. “Our national focus on sustainability is unwavering, and the Blue Residency Visa reflects this commitment.”Who Qualifies for the Blue Residency Visa?The UAE welcomes applications from a diverse range of environmental champions, including:Sustainability advocates: Individuals actively working on environmental initiatives, both within the UAE and internationally, through organizations and companies.Award winners: Recipients of prestigious global awards in recognition of their environmental efforts.Environmental activists: Leading figures who have spearheaded impactful environmental campaigns and movements.Pioneering researchers: Distinguished researchers at the forefront of environmental research and innovation.Applying for the Blue Residency VisaFurthermore, individuals interested in obtaining the Blue Residency Visa can submit their applications directly through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (FAICCPS).Investing in the FutureThe UAE cabinet meeting also addressed crucial aspects of the nation’s youth development and higher education. The National Youth Agenda 2031, focusing on empowering young people economically, honing their scientific skills,strengthening national identity, and fostering international representation, was officially approved.Additionally, a new framework for classifying universities and higher education institutions within the UAE was established. Over 70 institutions will be evaluated and recognized based on factors like academic quality, graduate employability, research strength, and global academic partnerships.Moreover, the Blue Residency Visa, alongside the initiatives for youth development and higher education advancement, signifies the UAE’s progressive approach towards a sustainable and prosperous future.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Instagram @hhshkmohd More