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      All the major changes that took place in the UAE in 2022

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      46 mins ago

      The UAE is a country of endless possibilities and with leaders with a vision to consistently look to the future.
      With this in mind, in 2022 alone there have been a number of changes to continue to make the UAE an attractive place to live.
      From visa updates to an amendment in labour laws, a host of new rules and regulations were launched this year.
      For an overview of all the updates, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the changes made in 2022.
      New visa system
      With visas being a major topic of discussion this year, the country continues to welcome expats from around the globe, especially with all the new visas here. The new system of entry and residence was launched to retain global talents and skilled workers from October 3, 2022. The latest visas introduced include a visitor visa which has increased the duration from 30 to 60 days after the individual has proved sufficient funds. For those who wish to start their own company, a business visa can be granted without a sponsor. Visas can also be granted for internship programmes, study courses and training purposes, and for any-project based work or temporary assignments, candidates can receive a temporary work visa. Now, families also have the option of sponsoring male children until the age of 25, where it was previously granted for 18 years old. The other visas available include a multi-entry tourist visa, a Green visa and a Golden visa for individuals who fall under the categories of entrepreneurs, real estate owners, exceptional talents, scientists & researchers, outstanding students and skilled workers.
      Working week shift

      #UAE announces today that it will transition to a four and a half day working week, with Friday afternoon, Saturday and Sunday forming the new weekend.
      All Federal government departments will move to the new weekend from January 1, 2022. pic.twitter.com/tQoa22pai9
      — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) December 7, 2021

      Starting from January 1, 2022, this year, the UAE Government Media Office transitioned to a new model with Saturday and Sunday forming the weekend days. Additionally, the UAE government made an announcement that the working week would be a four-and-a-half-day week for Federal employees from Monday to Thursday, 7:30am to 3:30pm with employees working for 4.5 hours on Friday and the flexibility to work from home.
      Labour law updates
      With only full-time employment possible before, employees now have the possibility to opt for temporary and flexible work, freelance jobs, condensed working hours and shared jobs. This new law allows employees to work part-time, job share, take on temporary work, or work for more than one employer for a specified number of days. Per the new contract, employees can work 40 hours a week and can perform all 40 hours in three if they would like to do so.
      Tech-driven Emirati passports

      The new generation of the UAE Passport.@MoFAICUAE____#IdentityCitizenshipCustomsAndPortSecurity #UAEPassport pic.twitter.com/TSg6X4gnUw
      — Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE (@UAEICP) August 11, 2022

      With innovation at the forefront, the government launched the next generation of Emirati passports on September 1, 2022, with technical specifications to promote security and safety for international travel. Designed to enhance the UAE’s international competitiveness to promote security and safety for international travel. The key features include a detail-oriented identification page with a holographic logo and enhanced elements to reduce attempts of forgery. Per the state news agency WAM, these changes are in line with the directions of the wise leadership to consolidate the movement toward a smart government in the UAE.
      E-cheques are now the future
      Through a partnership between Dubai Land Department and Emirates NBD, cheque payments for rental have been automated using the Central Bank of the UAE’s Direct Debit System (UAEDDS) allowing tenants to make payments through their bank accounts instead of issuing physical cheques. Tenants will also have the option of flexible payment plans and facilitate easy transfer without any added hassle.
      Emirates IDs are the new visas
      Since May 16, 2022, Emirates ID cards have officially replaced residence visa stickers across all emirates except Dubai. All relevant information is documented and stored within Emirates ID cards to merge residence and identity card applications, instead of processing them separately leading to a number of benefits. This rule now cuts paperwork and the time taken to process applications, with a more detailed outline showcasing a 3D picture, date of birth on the cardholder, and enhanced protection of non-visible data including employment information.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & feature image: Instagram @alphaspotting More

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      11 Emirati women taking the lead in the UAE to inspire future generations

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      The UAE’s leading women in power breaking down barriers and forging new paths in their respective careers.
      Her Excellency Reem bin KaramDirector of the Nama Foundation for the Advancement of Women

      Her Excellency Reem Bin Karam continually gives back to the UAE community, particularly when it comes to raising breast cancer awareness. In her role as the chairperson of Pink Caravan UAE, Her Excellency explains how breast cancer can occur in both men and women, the main aims of Pink Caravan, the importance of early detection of breast cancer and more.
      Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb AlmheiriMinister of Climate Change and Environment

      Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri holds a key position for monitoring national food stocks, invest- ing in food technology and following up on international relations. She oversees key measures, policies and initiatives to enhance goods and water security. She is currently representing the UAE in the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) as well as the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA).
      Her Excellency Dr. Amal Al QubaisiFirst Arab woman to be President of the Federal National Council

      As the region’s first female leader of a national assembly, Her Excellency Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi has made a difference since she took on this position in 2015. As one of the region’s game-changing visionaries, she has become a leading figure in placing the UAE on the global map.
      Her Excellency Jameela Al MuhairiFirst Emirati woman to become the Minister of State for Public Education Affairs

      Prior to joining the Cabinet, Her Excellency Jameela Al Muhairi helped develop a Quality Assurance System for schools in Dubai, while working as the chief of the Dubai School Inspection Bureau. She also served as the executive director of Dubai Knowledge Village from 2004 to 2008 and has more than 20 years of experience in the education sector.
      Her Excellency Reem Al HashimyDirector-General for the Dubai Expo 2020

      Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimi was hugely instrumental in winning Dubai’s bid to host Expo 2020. As well as being Director-General for the Dubai Expo 2020, she is also the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation. She became a cabinet minister in 2008. She is also chair of Dubai Cares, a children’s education charity established by Sheikh Mohammed in 2007.
      Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al RoumiMinister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing

      Since taking up her role as Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing in 2016, Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi has launched a plethora of initiatives including the 100-day happiness plan and five-month positivity training programme for local CEOs. She has previously held prestigious positions such as the first Arab member of the Global Entrepreneurship Council (GEC) and Director-General of the Prime Minister’s Office.
      Captain Aisha Al MansooriThe UAE’s first female Emirati captain in a commercial airline

      Aisha Al Mansoori became the first Emirati female captain for a commercial airline in August 2022. The groundbreaking appointment by Etihad Airways came after years of hard work and training. She first joined the Etihad Cadet Pilot programme in 2007, being of the two Emirati females in her batch. Captain Aisha took her first flight on an Etihad Airbus A320 to Amman, Jordan to later become the first female UAE national to fly the superjumbo passenger aircraft the Airbus A380 after undergoing a rigorous training programme and completing the requisite flying hours.
      Her Excellency Sheikha Hoor Al QasimiPresident and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation

      Her Excellency Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi is a curator who continues to establish herself as a catalyst of change in Sharjah and globally. By creating a platform for contemporary artists, curators, and cultural producers to be recognised, her leadership continues to extend beyond the four walls of art.
      Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al KaabiMinister of Youth and Culture

      Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi was appointed the Minister of Youth and Culture in July 2020, after previously holding the title of Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs from February 2016 to October 2017. Moreover, Al Kaabi was previously appointed as a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) from Abu Dhabi.
      Amna Al QubaisiFirst female Emirati racing driver

      This Emirati racer is no stranger to breaking new ground in motorsport. After making her name during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Amna Al Qubaisi’s success at Yas Marina circuit was one of the major milestones in her motor racing career. Since beginning her career at the age of 14, Al Qubaisi has always lived her life in the fast lane since then. Aim- ing to work her way to reach Formula 1, she has already claimed many achievements such as being the first female and Arab to win an FIA F4 race in 2019.
      Dr. Nadia Al BastakiThe first Emirati woman to be registered as a specialist in Aviation Aerospace medicine

      Paving the way in a male-dominated field, Dr Nadia Al Bastaki became the first UAE national to specialize in aviation medicine. She joined Etihad Airways in 2007 and has been a key figure in developing the airline’s medical centre into a region-leading aeromedical centre.

      October’s – The Pioneer Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      The internet’s best reactions to the premiere of Netflix’s Dubai Bling

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      The latest reality show to premiere on Netflix is all about Dubai.
      Showcasing the opulent and affluent side of the emirate, Dubai Bling has already taken the world by storm after launching on October 27.
      As one of the most highly anticipated shows, the emirate’s exuberant displays of wealth were accompanied by drama, drama and more drama as each episode progressed.
      With rivalries, romance and a lavish lifestyle being the focal point, the world had a lot to say about the diamond city’s high-flying social circle and whether it’s a façade or not.

      Each protagonist is known for their strong character leading its own dose of friction amongst them and more entertainment for the audience.
      The world binge-watched the show and so did we. By taking the streaming platform by storm, here’s what the internet had to say.

      Zeina will say how she feels to your face and I love that. #DubaiBling pic.twitter.com/iAqAmQlVun
      — maya own business (@saltybuthappy) October 27, 2022

      “My love language is receiving gifts 🎁”
      Say what? How is that YOUR love language, or am I missing something? 🤔 #DubaiBling
      — Nicola Ellegaard (@banafsaji) October 28, 2022

      Dubai Bling is not for financially weak people like myself.🤣🤣
      — Sania (@notyoursania) October 28, 2022

      I’m glad there are more and more reality shows where the men are gossiping and causing drama #DubaiBling #blingempire #sellingoc
      — Basically Like Heather (@maaagicadespell) October 28, 2022

      Ebraheem on Dubai Bling Netflix is just like Kane on Bling Empire. There has to be that one guy that gossips and I’m here for it. pic.twitter.com/RMfcFMQOm3
      — Hachi (@_PetiteAda) October 27, 2022

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram More

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      Meet Najla Al Ansari, co-founder of pioneering UAE concept NOT a SPACE

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      3 hours ago

      Najla Al Ansari, co-founder of NOT a SPACE, discusses cultivating communities through creativity throughout the UAE.
      The Story
      A graduate of the American University of Sharjah, UAE, I’m an Emirati serial entrepreneur and co-founder of NOT a SPACE, alongside other side ventures. As an explorer of life, I never intended to become an entrepreneur but I always had the fire in me to take risks. Venturing into my first business, a day spa that was built in 2011, was the biggest risk at only 21 years old. It was hard for me at the beginning with sleepless nights and limited resources but eventually, it all fell into place when you put the hard work into it. Now, I’m creating more spaces and taking more risks has become an addiction and I’m loving it. I believe everyone has a purpose in life and when you connect with that love, that’s when the magic unfolds.

      The Concept
      NOT a SPACE was launched in 2019 right before the pandemic hit with a focus on creating a community to work and play, eat and shop, and get groomed. A space for all to enjoy good music, great coffee and creating more stories and friendships. It is NOT your ordinary hangout place, NOT for egos, NOT for perfection… but a space to feel free and be you. Simply, NOT is a space with a heart, one that brings wild and kind souls together. At NOT, you can find a barbershop, a parlour, a pet grooming spa, and a community cafe right in the centre that brings all humans and pets together through the different events we create and host from music, fashion, wellness, sports, talks and workshops. During winter and summer, NOT pops up in unique locations around the UAE. One that is most popular, is our Al Faya winter annual and magical pop-up located far away in the desert where you can enjoy the breeze, live events, and peaceful mountain views attracting the sunrise explorers, sunset lovers, and the night owls under the starry skies.
      The Creative
      I’ve got both a creative and business mindset. Without being able to explore and create new ideas, I wouldn’t be able to run the business and vice versa. I spend most of my time being inspired by what’s out there and then strategically putting it into a plan to make sure it is feasible and makes financial sense. Especially, in our line of business and space, we rely a lot on creativity which gives us a competitive edge by always being different and ahead of the game in offering new experiences to the community.
      The Philosophy
      I’m a true believer in doing good and it will come back to you in time. And to always go after your dreams because it’s a chance you take on yourself and you are the driver of your own future. Only you can decide what’s good for you, control the speed and be responsible for the choices you make. You are you and that is your superpower to be truly happy.

      The Advice
      If you’ve got an idea but are not sure if it will work, go ahead and jump right in if you truly believe in it. It starts with the first step and the rest will follow. It doesn’t come easy, but it’s a beautiful journey if you do what you love.
      The Hurdles
      When we weren’t generating any revenue, my first business was coming down really fast and almost crashing before I re-strategized and started to look at things differently. This changed my perception of things and I learnt that we need to listen to the market more, invest in the right team and then put a system in place but most importantly, to keep moving and never stop believing.
      The Milestones
      I’m happy with how from starting my business at such a young age to being selected as a board member at the Sharjah Business Women Council, to organizing the first and fastest growing Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival that takes place every year gathering thousands of like-minded individuals, business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Running my own business is a full-time job now at NOT a SPACE and I have never been happier!
      The Mentors
      People from all around the world of different backgrounds, mindsets, cultures and experiences that I meet and learn from every single minute of every single day. Saying yes to new adventures all the time guides you to opportunities, experiences, and learnings to be better every day.
      October’s – The Pioneer Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      In pics: Royal pilot Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum gets a taste of Dubai’s flying car

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      4 hours ago

      Earlier this week the world’s first public flight of the two-seater eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) flying car X2 took place in Dubai.
      The flying car, designed by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng, made its debut at the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in the emirate.
      With over 100,000 visitors to the convention, one of the people to get a taste of the revolutionary flying vehicle was none other than Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum.
      The Dubai royal made a visit to the biggest technology conferences in the Middle East earlier this week where she explored what the future of technology has to offer.

      The former Emirates Woman cover star shared a series of photos on her official Instagram page and in one of the snaps Her Highness is seen sitting in the eVTOL flying car X2 getting an experience for what it’s like – but on the ground for now.
      “A vision for the future from visionary leadership… From Metaverse to self-flying Cars, what an exciting future ahead of us … #gitex2022,” she captioned the post.
      Given that she’s a qualified pilot – she’s actually the first Emirati royal who qualified as a commercial pilot for Emirates Airline – we’re sure Her Highness would have no problem taking this vehicle to the skies.
      The eVTOL flying car X2 took to the skies on Monday at the Dubai Marina completing a 90-minute test flight, marking an era of short-haul flights and intelligent mobility solutions.
      The two-seater eVTOL flying car X2 is equipped with an intelligent flight control system and autonomous flight capabilities and is developed by XPENG’s affiliate XPENG AEROHT. The X2 emits zero carbon dioxide and is designed with low-altitude city capabilities, with a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometres per hour.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Sheikha Mozah Instagram More

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      UAE introduces new laws to protect domestic workers, fines of up to Dhs10m

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      6 hours ago

      The UAE is continuing its mission to improve the protection and rights of employees across the country.
      The latest update to policies and laws is set to help and protect UAE domestic workers.
      According to the Khaleej Times, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation stated that as of December 15, 2022 all employers will need to be licensed when hiring domestic workers.
      “The new law stipulates that the recruitment or temporary employment of domestic helpers shall not be allowed unless after obtaining a licence from the ministry,” the Ministry stated.
      Strict rules and regulations will now be in place for recruitment agencies which are licensed and offices to follow in order to protect the working environment of maids, nannies, housekeepers, cooks and more.

      Take a look at the new Domestic Helper Law and learn more about how it safeguards the rights of employees, employers and recruitment agencies. #UAE #MoHRE pic.twitter.com/pZCI2A041S
      — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) October 10, 2022

      In the new framework announced, all domestic workers are entitled to one paid day off per week; are entitled to 30 days of leave per year; a return ticket home is granted to the employee at the cost of the employer; and more.
      “The UAE continues to establish a legislative framework that safeguards domestic helpers, in line with its mission to establish the country’s pioneering status as a preferred global destination to live and work,” the ministry stated.
      As part of these new laws, new fines have also been introduced to those who do not adhere to regulations.
      Fines of up to Dhs10 million will be enforced for those who employ unlicensed domestic workers, according to The National.
      The outlet also reports a slew of other fines are also in place if laws are not adhered to. This includes a Dhs200,000 fine if workers under the age of 18 are employed and fines of up to Dhs1 million if anyone attempts to employ a worker without a permit or misuses the online portal provided by the ministry.
      For more information visit mohre.gov.ae/mohre.domestic.ui/home/. 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Unsplash  More

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      Meet the UAE’s 9 female cabinet ministers making a difference

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      The UAE’s cabinet ministers have a powerful voice to bring about change.
      Designed to handle the execution of all internal and external affairs, the UAE’s cabinet ministers play a pivotal role in shaping what lies ahead.
      Be it technology or other future-focused sectors, the female cabinet team is pushing the envelope in each sector and making a change to boost the UAE’s global competitiveness.
      The UAE’s current ministers have all taken their oaths to diligently carry out their duties and meet the people’s expectations without sparing any effort from their end.
      To delve into their roles and responsibilities, Emirates Woman sheds light on all the inspiring female ministers in the UAE making a difference.
      HE Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth

      Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi is also an Emirati businesswoman alongside her role as Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development for the United Arab Emirates. She has held the position since October 2017. Previously she was the Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs from February 2016 to October 2017. Moreover, Al Kaabi was previously appointed as a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) from Abu Dhabi.
      HE Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment

      As a leader to protect the country’s ecosystems, Her Excellency is constantly implementing effective measures, policies and initiatives to bring about environmental changes. Her role prior to this was Minister of State for Food and Water security to make decisions pertaining to channeling investments in food and water technology. She is on a mission to strengthen the UAE’s long-standing bilateral ties with nations globally and prepare for upcoming prestigious events such as COP28.
      HE Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimi, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation

      Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimi was hugely instrumental in Dubai’s winning bid to host Expo 202o. As well as being Director-General for the Dubai Expo 2020, she is also the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation. She became a cabinet minister in 2008. She is also chair of Dubai Cares, a children’s education charity established by Sheikh Mohammed in 2007.
      HE Shamma Bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth Affairs

      After taking on the role in 2020, her tasks are focused on representing youth issues and aspirations and setting strategies to improve their capabilities and further utilize their energy in various fields. Her Excellency previously worked in. private equity and also as a public policy analyst at the UAE Mission to the United Nations after receiving a distinction from the University of Oxford in 2015.
      HE Sarah Bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology

      For women in science, Her Excellency is paving the path for women to pursue a career in this field. With new scientific discoveries, Sarah is equipping future generations with the tools to take on tomorrow’s world. As the UAE continues to spearhead other such programmes including the Emirates Mars Mission as its Deputy Project Manager.
      HE Sara Mussallam, Minister of State for Early Education

      Since taking on her role in May 2022, Her Excellency supervises the Federal Authority of Early Education and has promoted digital and coding skills in the classroom to make it accessible to future generations. Her portfolio also includes her position as Chairwoman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge. With a key say in leading the region’s talent, several schools are making technological advancements in the future of education. She has previously worked as a chartered financial analyst and in the finance industry.
      HE Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State

      Her Excellency joined the Federal Government in 2008 as Minister of State. She has participated in several conferences globally including representing the UAE at UN organisations. With a Ph.D. in Sociology she has authored a series of books, research articles and various fields, especially development, women and education. Her previous  roles such as the president of Zayed University and presiding over the Marriage Fund have made her equipped for her role as Minister of State.
      HE Ohood Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing

      Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi has launched a plethora of initiatives including the 100-day happiness plan and five-month positivity training programme for local CEOs after taking up her role in 2016. She has previously held prestigious positions such as the first Arab member of the Global Entrepreneurship Council (GEC) and Director-General of the Prime Minister’s Office.
      HE Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development

      With a key role in actively promoting family cohesion, Her Excellency empowers women through new policies and legislation that encourage a happy and sustainable marriage. By implementing the National Family Policy, National Policy for People of Determination and other such measures, she has confidently carried out her duties since 2017.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images & Feature Image: Instagram More

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      UAE nationals can now obtain passports online in 30 minutes

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      42 mins ago

      Emirati travellers now have a solution for the expiry, loss and damage of passports.
      To curb this issue, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) has launched its e-document service for UAE travellers returning from abroad.
      With this new electronic service, the government ensures a seamless service to speed up the issuance of emergency passports without any charges or the need to visit an embassy or consulate to receive the travel documents.
      Abdulaziz Al Hebsi, Director of the UAE Nationals Affairs Department at the Ministry, said the ministry’s Service Development Team has worked relentlessly to simplify and facilitate relevant procedures, adding that the service was enhanced in response to customer feedback.
      Thus, UAE nationals can obtain the travel document at any time and from any place to receive it via e-mail without any added hassle.

      Introduced to keep in line with the UAE’s visionary leadership, the ministry is working towards providing outstanding digital services and offerings as per the highest quality standards.
      To apply for the service, Emirati travellers can simply opt for the service on the ministry’s website at mofaic.gov.ae or log on to the smart application UAE MOFAIC available on both iOS and Android stores.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Unsplash @corinne-kutz More