Latest news with #UAEResidents
Khaleej Times
25-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE residents lost over Dh20 million in rejected Schengen visa applications in 2024
UAE residents hoping to visit Europe 'wasted' a whopping Dh20.6 million (€4.93 million) in 2024 due to rejected Schengen visa applications, according to a recent report. The latest data from Schengen Visa Info revealed that a total of 260,229 visa applications were filed from the UAE — marking an 11.24 per cent increase from 2023. Of these, 61,738 applications were rejected, amounting to a 23.72 per cent rejection rate. The rejection rate was an 18 per cent rise compared to the previous year. The report also revealed that UAE residents accounted for 2.2 per cent of global applications, making the Emirates the 10th country with the most Schengen visa applications filed last year. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Schengen visa cost The Schengen visa, which allows permits seamless travel across 27 European countries, cost €80 (Dh333) up until June 11, 2024, not including additional service and documentation fees. This brought the total spent by UAE applicants on Schengen visas in 2024 to nearly Dh87 million (€20.8 million). In total, since 2014, UAE-based applicants have spent over Dh700 million (€170 million) on Schengen visa applications. Top 10 Schengen destinations Germany was the most preferred Schengen destination, receiving 32,956 applications from UAE residents. It granted 23,753 visas to UAE residents, resulting in an approval rate of 72.07 per cent. However, Germany also recorded the highest number of rejections, with 8,778 visa applications denied. Following Germany, the second most popular destination among UAE residents was the Netherlands, with 29,473 applications, followed by France in third place with 28,778 applications. Switzerland ranked fourth as a sought-after Schengen destination with 27,148 applications, followed by Spain in fifth, which received 24,799. Italy was the sixth most preferred destination with 23,240 applications, followed by Greece, which processed 17,974. Eighth on the list was Denmark with 12,846 applications, followed by Norway with 12,007, and Hungary with 9,717. Meanwhile, Lithuania received the least visa applications from the UAE, with just 202 submissions. In total, 198,093 Schengen visas were granted to UAE residents last year. Poland was the easiest country to secure a visa from, approving 85.89 per cent of its 23,753 applications. Meanwhile, Croatia and Denmark had the highest rejection rates, declining 53.03 per cent and 49.75 per cent of all applications from the UAE, respectively.
Arabian Business
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arabian Business
Dubai Parks and Resorts unveils limited-time offer for UAE residents
Dubai Parks and Resorts has launched a special offer for UAE residents, providing access to one theme park for AED199 per person from May 9 to 25, 2025. Residents can choose from four parks: MOTIONGATE Dubai, Real Madrid World, LEGOLAND Dubai, or LEGOLAND Water Park. MOTIONGATE Dubai, the region's largest Hollywood-inspired theme park, features 29 rides and attractions based on popular films. Dubai Parks and Resorts announces two-week discount for residents Visitors can experience rides such as John Wick: Open Contract, Now You See Me: High Roller, and Capitol Bullet Train from The Hunger Games. Family options include Smurfs Studio Tour s, Hotel Transylvania, and Kung Fu Panda: Unstoppable Awesomeness. Real Madrid World, the first theme park dedicated to the football club, offers attractions including Hala Madrid Coaster, Stars Flyer, and La Fábrica Training Pitch. The park aims to appeal to visitors regardless of their interest in football. LEGOLAND Dubai targets families with children aged 2-12, featuring 40 rides and attractions across six themed lands. The park combines play with creativity through LEGO-inspired experiences. For those seeking water-based activities, LEGOLAND Water Park offers slides, a Wave Pool, and a water playground. Attractions include the Red Rush slide and a lazy river where visitors can float on LEGO rafts. website.
