The service will bring tourist visa applications onto the same platform that travellers use to explore attractions, book tickets, discover events and plan their holidays.

A dedicated visa information section is already available on Visit Dubai, listing the different tourist visa categories, application fees, required documents and processing times.

According to the website, fees start at Dh200 for a 30-day single-entry tourist visa, excluding VAT, while applications are typically processed within three working days.

The initiative was announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, as part of two measures to enhance the emirate's tourism sector.

The second initiative is Dubai Access Club, an invitation-only membership programme that will offer repeat visitors exclusive benefits and experiences across the city.

Currently, travellers requiring a prearranged tourist visa can apply through existing government channels, authorised travel agencies and airlines such as Emirates and flydubai.

Under the new initiative, Visit Dubai will provide another channel for tourist visa applications.

(Source: Khaleej Times)