DUBAI-Around 145,000 passengers per day passed through Dubai International Airport in the gradual return to normal life after the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a top immigration official said on Monday.
Photo by Traveller.
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, General-Director of the General Directorate and Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA), said the figures indicate a strong return to normality in the UAE and a recovery from the pandemic.
Numbers indicate recovery
“At the beginning of 2020, we used to have 210,000 travellers per day. Today, we have more than 145,000 travellers – similar to the figure of 2019. We are proud of being part of the unprecedented success. The increasing number of passengers is a sign of recovery after the pandemic,” Lt Gen Al Marri told a media briefing at GDRFA’s headquarters.
Reasons behind the rise
He added that the increasing numbers are due not only because of Expo 2020 Dubai, but also owing to the UAE’s joint efforts to return to normality.
“Expo 2020 Dubai is a mega-event, but the numbers increased due to the country’s wise leadership and their vision that make UAE a pioneer among countries that challenged the pandemic and returned life to normal. We are proud of the country’s medical system that curbed the spread of COVID-19.”
He added: “We have most amazing tourist attractions and the most hospitable people in the world. GDRFA-Dubai officers always welcome visitors with a smile.”
He said GDRFA is ready to deal with and facilitate passenger movements in all Dubai ports to make the process smooth and easy.
“Our officers will welcome millions of visitors and adhere to all precautionary measures to keep COVID-19 in check,” added Lt Gen Al Marri.
UAE Golden Visa
Meanwhile, GDRFA-Dubai issued 44,000 Golden Visas for residents in different categories, he said. “We have different types of permits that attracted many people. Dubai became a global hub to all nationalities thanks to our wise leadership.”
The UAE Golden Visa grants 10-year residency for people in select categories, such as investors and high-achieving students.
Meanwhile, GDRFA-Dubai issued 44,000 Golden Visas for residents in different categories, he said. “We have different types of permits that attracted many people. Dubai became a global hub to all nationalities thanks to our wise leadership.”
The UAE Golden Visa grants 10-year residency for people in select categories, such as investors and high-achieving students.
Expect more rush
Meanwhile, Dubai Airports has issued a passenger advisory alerting travellers about Dubai International (DXB) getting exceptionally busy over the coming days and weeks.
According to the operator, as many as 1.8 million passengers are expected to pass through DXB between November 25 and December 5 with average daily traffic reaching 164,000 passengers.
December 4 is expected to be the busiest day during this period with passenger numbers likely to surpass the 190,000 mark.
Essa Al Shamsi, Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports said: “As always, Dubai Airports is working with airlines, control authorities, and all our other commercial and service partners to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for our customers. Those travelling during this peak period can make their journey smooth and comfortable by following a few simple tips.”
Stay updated
Be aware of the latest travel regulations for the destination you are travelling to.
We urge passengers to get in touch with their respective airlines and ensure that they have all the necessary documents with the required validity before reaching the airport.
Plan some extra time to get to and through the airport as the roads to DXB could get busy during peak times.
Arrive at the airport no earlier than 3 hours before your departure if you are flying out of Terminal 1.
Those departing from Terminal 3 can beat the queues by check-in up to 24 hours ahead of their departure.
Use online and self-service options wherever available to get off to a smooth start to your journey.
Say your goodbyes at home as only ticketed passengers will be allowed to enter the departure zone during peak hours throughout this busy period. (Gulf News).