Residents of Dubai can now easily renew their visas with the new AI-powered digital platform launched by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) of Dubai.
AI powered “Salama” allows residents to renew their visas in minutes and download the updated documents directly, avoiding paperwork and long wait times.
After logging in, the AI automatically retrieves the user’s details, shows the visa status of their dependents, and highlights the remaining days until expiration.
The applicant can choose the renewal duration, and the system processes the request immediately. The platform simplifies residency visa renewals for family members in just a few clicks.
The renewal process used to take one to three hours, depending on document completeness. Ghaleb Abdullah Mohammed Hassan Al-Majid, Director of the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Department, stated that it is now reduced to just one to two minutes if all documents are correct.
The “Salama” platform streamlines residency services, allowing users to quickly handle tasks like transactions and payments without paperwork. This approach improves service delivery by the GDRFA and supports UAE’s Vision 2071 and Dubai’s Digital Transformation Strategy.
He also clarified that this service currently applies only to residents’ visa renewals. “The first phase focuses on renewals and cancellations for residents, with plans for the second phase to expand services for visitors, tourists, and other GDRFA services in the future,” he added.
Regarding business renewal processes, Al-Majid mentioned, “The service will eventually be available for companies as well, with the smart channel and the GDRFA DXP application being utilised in future phases. We are constantly evolving to keep pace with AI and technological advancements.”
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, General Director of GDRFA Dubai, highlighted the significance of digital transformation, stating, “It’s not just about developing services; it’s about improving customer experience and government performance. The ‘Salama’ AI Platform shows our commitment to using the latest technologies to enhance life in Dubai.”
Colonel Khalid bin Madia Al Falasi, Assistant Director General of the Digital Services Affairs Sector at GDRFA Dubai, shared further details on the platform’s capabilities. “The launch of the ‘Salama’ AI platform marks a major shift in how users engage with government services,” he stated.
“Using sophisticated algorithms, the platform tailors responses to individual needs, offering quick, accurate service.
He told media that the new service is currently available for individuals, primarily to renew or cancel residency permits. In the next phase, it will be extended to include companies.