VFS Global opens world's largest visa application centre in Dubai
The world's largest visa application centre has officially opened in Dubai.
Headed up by VFS Global, the new centre serves a whopping 37 governments and can handle up to 10,000 visa applications every day.
With Dubai International Airport being the world's busiest international airport and plans for the even bigger Al Maktoum International Airport in the pipeline, the application centre should make it easier to travel outbound from the UAE.
Based in a 150,000 square foot space in Dubai's Wafi City, the centre has a team of more than 400 trained professionals hailing from 25 different nations capable of helping applicants fill in the right forms to get their visa granted.
Travel abroad can be restrictive depending on the passport, with some granting visa-free travel to more locations than others. This centre will help streamline the process of visa approval for many living in the emirate.
(Credit: VFS Global)
Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths and photocopy stations will help those who have last-minute needs.
Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins and automated feedback at each visa desk will help visitors out with their applications. This smart system, paired with electronic displays and mobile updates, aims to minimise wait times and optimise applicant flow.
Airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, buggy services, dedicated prayer rooms and kids' play areas have all been provided for those who need them.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism, says that the new visa centre will also help the emirate attract more talent.
He said: 'This milestone is more than an infrastructure achievement — it reflects the strategic direction Dubai is taking to enhance global mobility, unlock access to opportunity, and accelerate growth across our visitor and business economy.
'As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, strengthening seamless access to and from Dubai remains a priority.
'Visa facilitation is a key enabler of talent attraction, tourism development, and international partnerships — all essential levers of our strategy to position Dubai as the world's most connected and future-ready city.'
In total, VFS Global serves 40 countries in the UAE, including China, Japan, the Philippines, the UK and many European destinations.
Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group, says that the centre reflects Dubai's extensive multicultural population.
He said: 'In line with the rapid development of Dubai, today we are pleased to launch the world's largest Visa Application Centre, serving over 200 nationalities in this Year of Community.
'Working closely with Emirati Entrepreneurs and Emirati Artists, the centre captures and reflects the multicultural fabric of the country that we are proud to call our Global Headquarters.'
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