Latest news with #HelalSaeedAlmarri
Gulf Business
3 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Full details: Inside the world's largest visa application centre in Dubai
Image credit: Supplied VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services that enable secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has announced the launch of its flagship visa application centre in Dubai's Wafi City. This marks the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai; and Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the VFS Global Group. 'This milestone is more than just an infrastructure achievement — it reflects the strategic direction Dubai is taking to enhance global mobility, unlock opportunities, and accelerate growth across our visitor and business economy. As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, seamless access to and from Dubai remains a priority. Visa facilitation is a key enabler of talent attraction, tourism development, and international partnerships — all critical components of our strategy to position Dubai as the world's most connected and future-ready city,' said Helal Saeed Almarri. Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri commented, 'Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the UAE's journey of excellence, particularly for Dubai, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre. Located in the heart of a city that constantly redefines innovation, this achievement reflects our wise leadership's directives to reinforce the UAE's position as a global hub for smart services and to set a benchmark in efficient, high-quality government services. Continuous development is not optional — it is a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Zubin Karkaria added, 'Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been shaped by an unwavering commitment and a strong connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. Over the past two decades, we have witnessed the UAE's spectacular growth into a global hub for business, innovation, and technology. Today, we are proud to launch the world's largest visa application centre, serving over 200 nationalities in this Year of Community. By collaborating with Emirati entrepreneurs and artists, the centre embodies the multicultural fabric of a country we are proud to call our Global Headquarters.' A next-gen experience for tomorrow's travellers Built to address rising outbound travel and growing expectations around security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art centre in Dubai sets a new global standard. Spanning nearly 150,000 square feet, it can handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily — the highest capacity at any single location. The facility is supported by a team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities. Key features of the centre include: Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and photocopy stations for last-minute needs Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins, and automated feedback at each visa desk Over 400 on-site staff equipped with tablets, along with trained volunteers to assist with forms and kiosks Airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, and a buggy service for easy movement Dedicated prayer rooms, kids' play areas, and multiple convenience zones to enhance the customer experience ESG-compliant design, with energy-efficient systems and fast-track lanes for seniors, families, and persons with disabilities With rising outbound travel from the UAE, personalised services like the Premium Lounge have become increasingly popular. Of the over 200 submission counters, 79 are exclusively designated as Premium Lounges. The centre is also one of the few worldwide — and one of only two in the UAE — to offer the Platinum Lounge, featuring a chauffeur service, end-to-end application support, and a calm, modern environment. At the core: AI and innovation From real-time document validation to advanced biometrics, the on-site AI Innovation Hub enables faster, more secure processing. Supporting this are a Digitisation Centre that transforms paper documents into secure digital records and a Global Resilience Center (GRC) that ensures 24/7 operational uptime, data security, and continuity for partner governments. VFS Global has embedded technology throughout the applicant journey to revolutionise the visa submission process. Visitors use QR code-based e-tokens for check-in, guided by a smart queue management system that includes electronic displays and mobile updates to reduce wait times and manage applicant flow — even during peak hours. By integrating cutting-edge innovation with human expertise, the centre delivers a visa application experience that is seamless, transparent, and efficient. A vision aligned with the UAE's future The launch of the world's largest Visa Application Centre in Dubai reinforces VFS Global's commitment to the UAE Government's 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Aligned with the Year of Community 2025, the centre not only sets a new global benchmark in service excellence but also celebrates Dubai's vibrant communities through Emirati cultural installations. This flagship facility represents a new model — one that blends breakthrough technology with local values to ensure a future of secure, connected, and community-driven travel. VFS Global has been associated with the UAE since 2002 as the official visa service provider for Emirates Airlines passengers and has maintained its global headquarters in Dubai since 2013.
Tourism Breaking News
20-05-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
VFS Global launches world's largest visa application facility in Dubai
VFS Global announced the launch of its flagship Visa Application Centre in Dubai's Wafi City, marking the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai; and Mr. Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism 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.' His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai said, 'Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the journey of excellence pursued by the UAE in general and Dubai in particular, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre, located in the heart of Dubai, a city that continuously redefines innovation. This achievement embodies a true reflection of the directives of our wise leadership towards strengthening the nation's position as a global hub for smart services and establishing a unique model for delivering government services with high efficiency and quality. We believe that continuous development is not an option, but rather a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group, said, 'Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been defined by our unwavering commitment and a deep-rooted connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. In these two decades we have witnessed the spectacular growth and development of the UAE to become a preeminent global hub of business, thought leadership, technology development and innovation. 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.' Designed to meet the surge in outbound travel and rising expectations for security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art Dubai centre sets a new global benchmark — built not just for today, but for the travel demands of tomorrow. At nearly 150,000 square feet, the centre is equipped to handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily – a capacity that stands as the highest for any single location – and is supported by a skilled and diverse team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities.
Time Out Dubai
20-05-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
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.' Jetting off soon? Travelling for Eid Al Adha? This is the best day to find a cheap flight deal An expert reveals all New Emirates flights from Dubai for 2025 Will you be jetting off soon? New flydubai flights from Dubai for 2025 Your holiday plans sorted
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai becomes home to the World's Largest Visa Application Centre, revolutionising visa services for a new era
Conceptualised as a next-generation global model for visa centres, setting new benchmarks in service, security, and customer experience Built to support the UAE's growing outbound travel demand, with the capacity to handle 10,000 applications a day 37 client governments. Over 200 submission counters. One powerful, unified destination for smart visa services. VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has announced the launch of its flagship Visa Application Centre in Dubai's Wafi City, marking the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai; and Mr. Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism 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.' His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai said, 'Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the journey of excellence pursued by the UAE in general and Dubai in particular, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre, located in the heart of Dubai, a city that continuously redefines innovation. This achievement embodies a true reflection of the directives of our wise leadership towards strengthening the nation's position as a global hub for smart services and establishing a unique model for delivering government services with high efficiency and quality. We believe that continuous development is not an option, but rather a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group, said, 'Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been defined by our unwavering commitment and a deep-rooted connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. In these two decades we have witnessed the spectacular growth and development of the UAE to become a preeminent global hub of business, thought leadership, technology development and innovation. 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.' Designed to meet the surge in outbound travel and rising expectations for security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art Dubai centre sets a new global benchmark — built not just for today, but for the travel demands of tomorrow. At nearly 150,000 square feet, the centre is equipped to handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily – a capacity that stands as the highest for any single location – and is supported by a skilled and diverse team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities. Key features of the centre include: Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and photocopy stations for last-minute needs Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins with automated feedback at each visa desk More than 400 on-site staff equipped with tablets to assist applicants, supported by trained volunteers for form and kiosk help Intuitive, airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, and a buggy service for easy movement Dedicated prayer rooms, kids' play areas, and various convenience zones ensuring a truly customer-centric experience ESG-compliant design with energy-efficient systems and fast-track lanes for seniors, families, and persons with disabilities With rising outbound travel from the UAE, personalised services like the Premium Lounge have become the preferred choice for applicants seeking enhanced comfort and convenience. Of the 200+ submission counters at the centre, 79 are exclusively available as Premium Lounges. The centre is one of the few globally, and just two in the UAE, to offer the Platinum Lounge service, which includes a personalised experience with chauffeur service, end-to-end application support, and a calm, modern setting. At the Core: AI and Innovation From real-time document validation to next-generation biometrics, the on-site AI Innovation Hub powers smarter, faster, and more secure processing. Complementing this is a Digitization Centre that converts paper documents into secure digital records and a Global Resilience Center (GRC) that ensures 24/7 operational uptime, data protection, and continuity for all partner governments. VFS Global has leveraged technology at every stage of the applicant journey to revolutionise the submission experience. Visitors use QR code-based e-tokens for check-in, guided by an advanced queue management system. This smart system, paired with electronic displays and mobile updates, minimises wait times and optimises applicant flow — even at peak capacity. By marrying innovation with human expertise, the centre reimagines visa application as a seamless, transparent, and efficient process. The launch of the world's largest Visa Application Centre in Dubai underscores VFS Global's commitment to the UAE Government's 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Aligned with the Year of Community 2025, the centre not only sets a global benchmark in service excellence but also integrates Emirati cultural installations that celebrate the spirit of Dubai's communities. This flagship facility represents a new model — one that blends breakthrough technology with local values to ensure a future of secure, connected, and community-oriented travel. VFS Global has been associated with the UAE since 2002 as the official visa service provider for Emirates Airlines passengers and has been headquartered in Dubai since 2013. About VFS Global As the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure mobility for governments and citizens, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment. With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 69 client governments. Operating over 3,616 Application Centres in 158 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 461 million applications since 2001. Headquartered in Zurich and Dubai and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with minority stakeholders including Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation.
Syyaha
20-05-2025
- Business
- Syyaha
Dubai becomes home to the World's Largest Visa Application Centre, revolutionising visa services for a new era
Future-ready, culturally rooted, and powered by AI — Dubai's new centre will serve 37 governments • Conceptualised as a next-generation global model for visa centres, setting new benchmarks in service, security, and customer experience• Built to support the UAE's growing outbound travel demand, with the capacity to handle 10,000 applications a day • 37 client governments. Over 200 submission counters. One powerful, unified destination for smart visa services. VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has announced the launch of its flagship Visa Application Centre in Dubai's Wafi City, marking the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai; and Mr. Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism 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.' His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai said, ' Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the journey of excellence pursued by the UAE in general and Dubai in particular, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre, located in the heart of Dubai, a city that continuously redefines innovation. This achievement embodies a true reflection of the directives of our wise leadership towards strengthening the nation's position as a global hub for smart services and establishing a unique model for delivering government services with high efficiency and quality. We believe that continuous development is not an option, but rather a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group, said, ' Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been defined by our unwavering commitment and a deep-rooted connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. In these two decades we have witnessed the spectacular growth and development of the UAE to become a preeminent global hub of business, thought leadership, technology development and innovation. 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.' Designed to meet the surge in outbound travel and rising expectations for security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art Dubai centre sets a new global benchmark — built not just for today, but for the travel demands of tomorrow. At nearly 150,000 square feet, the centre is equipped to handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily – a capacity that stands as the highest for any single location – and is supported by a skilled and diverse team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities. Key features of the centre include: • Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and photocopy stations for last-minute needs• Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins with automated feedback at each visa desk• More than 400 on-site staff equipped with tablets to assist applicants, supported by trained volunteers for form and kiosk help• Intuitive, airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, and a buggy service for easy movement• Dedicated prayer rooms, kids' play areas, and various convenience zones ensuring a truly customer-centric experience • ESG-compliant design with energy-efficient systems and fast-track lanes for seniors, families, and persons with disabilities With rising outbound travel from the UAE, personalised services like the Premium Lounge have become the preferred choice for applicants seeking enhanced comfort and convenience. Of the 200+ submission counters at the centre, 79 are exclusively available as Premium Lounges. The centre is one of the few globally, and just two in the UAE, to offer the Platinum Lounge service, which includes a personalised experience with chauffeur service, end-to-end application support, and a calm, modern setting. At the Core: AI and Innovation From real-time document validation to next-generation biometrics, the on-site AI Innovation Hub powers smarter, faster, and more secure processing. Complementing this is a Digitization Centre that converts paper documents into secure digital records and a Global Resilience Center (GRC) that ensures 24/7 operational uptime, data protection, and continuity for all partner governments. VFS Global has leveraged technology at every stage of the applicant journey to revolutionise the submission experience. Visitors use QR code-based e-tokens for check-in, guided by an advanced queue management system. This smart system, paired with electronic displays and mobile updates, minimises wait times and optimises applicant flow — even at peak capacity. By marrying innovation with human expertise, the centre reimagines visa application as a seamless, transparent, and efficient process. The launch of the world's largest Visa Application Centre in Dubai underscores VFS Global's commitment to the UAE Government's 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Aligned with the Year of Community 2025, the centre not only sets a global benchmark in service excellence but also integrates Emirati cultural installations that celebrate the spirit of Dubai's communities. This flagship facility represents a new model — one that blends breakthrough technology with local values to ensure a future of secure, connected, and community-oriented travel. VFS Global has been associated with the UAE since 2002 as the official visa service provider for Emirates Airlines passengers and has been headquartered in Dubai since 2013.
