Dubai Unveils Exclusive Loyalty Program: 5-Year Visas and Dh2,000 Benefits for Repeat Visitors

Dubai has released further details regarding its new tourism loyalty programme, which will offer select returning visitors a five-year visa and exclusive benefits valued at up to Dh2,000 ($544). The Dubai Access Club, an invitation-only membership scheme, is designed to enhance the experience for frequent tourists by making future visits more convenient and rewarding. The programme was announced on Sunday by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence.

Successful applicants will receive a five-year multi-entry visa, permitting stays of up to 90 days within a one-year period. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai, the authority responsible for visa issuance, will assess applications.

The membership package includes a complimentary prepaid SIM card from du, a telecoms operator, and up to Dh2,000 in credit to be used at select hotels, attractions, and retail outlets across Dubai. Additionally, members will gain access to exclusive privileges and promotions through the Alsaada loyalty card, developed by GDRFA, which offers over 20 benefits. Visit Dubai has indicated that more membership benefits are anticipated.

What is Dubai Access Club?

The Dubai Access Club targets frequent visitors, consolidating exclusive offers, services, and experiences within the emirate's hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors. This initiative is part of Dubai's broader strategy to foster long-term relationships with international visitors and bolster engagement with its local economy and business community. Membership is strictly by invitation, extended through selected corporate, tourism, and hospitality partners, and remains valid for the duration of the member's five-year visa.

Hospitality partners featured on the website include Emirates airline, Jumeirah Group, Accor, Hilton, IHG Hotels and Resorts, and Hyatt and Taj Hotels.

Who can apply?

Prospective applicants can express their interest via the Visit Dubai website, though this does not guarantee an invitation, membership, or visa approval. Applicants may identify their employer if it is a participating corporate partner or provide details of an existing loyalty programme. Participating loyalty programmes include Emirates Skywards, U by Emaar, IHG One Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, Jumeirah One, Taj InnerCircle-NeuPass, and Hilton Honours. Those expressing interest are required to submit their membership details, personal information, passport details, and contact number.

How much does it cost?

The application fee is Dh4,032.50, which covers programme membership, the five-year multi-entry visa application, and associated benefits. Visitors applying from within the UAE will incur an additional fee of Dh650. The visa is still subject to approval by the residency authorities, and payment does not ensure a successful application. In cases where GDRFA rejects a visa application, the applicant will receive a refund, less a deduction of Dh183.

The introduction of the Dubai Access Club coincides with Dubai's efforts to centralize services for international visitors through Visit Dubai, its official tourism website. This platform is integrating services such as tourist visa applications with comprehensive information and tools covering various aspects of a visitor's journey, including discovering attractions, booking tickets, exploring events, and planning itineraries. This consolidation aims to provide visitors with a single access point for essential services, reducing the need to navigate multiple websites, applications, and government entities.