The Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD) has recorded a 50 per cent increase in the number of visitors from the 33 countries that are entitled to visa-on-arrival status.
More than one million visas were issued for nationals of these countries by DNRD at Dubai International Airport during 2003.
The 33 countries that enjoy visa-on-arrival status in the UAE include the United States, France, Germany, Australia, Canada, The Netherlands, United Kingdom and Italy.
“This new record represents a boost to tourism and business in the UAE,” said DNRD director Colonel Saeed bin Belailah.
A 50 per cent increase in traffic from these countries in just one year translates into a vote of confidence in the UAE’s position as the commercial and tourism hub of the region.
Tourism initiatives in the UAE, including projects like the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), The Palm, Dubai Marina, Dubai Internet City and numerous others have enhanced the country’s position on the global map.