Key Points
- ‘Growth’ Platform Launch: The UAE’s ‘Growth’ platform offers a centralized economic registry, simplifying business setup and access to licenses and investment data across the Emirates.
- Expanded E-Visa for GCC Residents: GCC residents can now apply for a 30-day e-visa to the UAE, which can be extended for 30 days.
- Enhanced Accessibility: E-visa applications can be processed through GDRFA or ICA, with specific passport and residency requirements.
Overview
In a progressive move to support business growth and facilitate regional travel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently launched the ‘Growth’ platform, a comprehensive economic registry unifying business information across its seven emirates. The platform provides an accessible, centralized database with details on over 2,000 economic activities, helping streamline the business setup by offering businesses easy access to licenses and investment opportunities. The UAE aims to simplify regulatory processes by centralizing this data and creating a supportive environment for sustainable economic expansion.
‘Growth’ will be regularly updated with commercial license information, making it a valuable tool for new investors and established businesses. Plans for the platform include linking it with 100 federal and local entities, with an expansion goal of connecting 500 entities within the next two years. As it evolves, ‘Growth’ is expected to play a crucial role in critical sectors, enhancing collaboration and efficiency across various economic domains. This digital advancement reinforces the UAE’s commitment to fostering a resilient and adaptable business ecosystem that supports long-term sustainable development.
On October 14, 2024, the UAE government introduced a 30-day e-visa for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This e-visa option simplifies travel for GCC residents, offering a convenient, extendable solution for those seeking to stay in the UAE for short-term purposes. The visa is valid for an initial 30-day period, with an option for an additional 30-day extension. Before this update, GCC residents were required to exit the UAE to renew their visas; the new e-visa provides greater flexibility for extending their stay without needing to leave the country.
The e-visa can be obtained through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA). To qualify, applicants’ GCC residency must be valid for at least one year upon arrival in the UAE, and their passports must be valid for a minimum of six months. This policy shift reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to enhance mobility and provide a more accessible travel experience for residents across the GCC, promoting stronger regional connections and economic engagement.
Looking Ahead
Businesses and investors should consider leveraging the ‘Growth’ platform’s centralized resources for streamlined setup and licensing while staying informed about further service expansions expected over the next two years. GCC residents and HR departments managing travel for employees will benefit from the simplified e-visa process, particularly as it supports extended stays without exit requirements. With these advancements, the UAE demonstrates a solid commitment to fostering an inclusive, dynamic economic landscape and improving regional mobility, aligning with its goals for sustainable growth and enhanced connectivity across the Gulf region.
