Just wanted to add, getting an e-gate for non-residents is not a problem. I didn't feel like using 5,000 miles so I spent the 200 AED for two years. Just got it less than two weeks ago, without any problems. Yes, I am from a visa-waiver country. And, the clerk did ask me if I had a UAE visa; after I said no, he thought about it for a moment and then proceeded with the application. Weird!

-t.

I just got mine today...walked in and out within 10 minutes. I was told that when I get my residence visa, which will happen sometime during the summer months, that I'll have to come back in surrender my old one and get issued a new resident one. And repay the 200dhs.

That's just what happened to me last year, except the clerk said 'No'.

I think it also helped this time that I had the renewal notice with my ID number, so it didn't take more that a few minutes to process.

Cheers,
Rick

I don't have a UAE residence visa, but am considering getting one for future purposes. I was told, however, at e-gate, that once my status changes, I would need to get the card re-issued BUT THERE WOULD BE NO CHARGE.

Rick - Weird, I really just don't like a system where a point person (most usually just a clerk) has such decision-making abilities. And, if he would have said no, there is nothing I could have done, even if his decision was arbitrary. Oh well :-)

By the way, for the renewal, did you have to get re-fingerprinted, etc? Or, do you just pay the fee and 'be on your way'?

-t.

No, I didn't have to be photographed or fingerprinted. They just transferred the existing information.

Cheers,
Rick

I guess its who you are talking to then. The lady who processed my application asked me if I wanted to wait so I wouldn't have to repay. I guess I'll find out in a few months.

For me it seems quiet impossible to get the registration:

I tried 3 times in the last 4 month to get it at the arrival hall: all 3 times the registration point was without a person (6 am in the morning, but it is a main arrival time in DXB and it says staffed 24 hours).
So I tried the departure hall before my flight back last tuesday. Good luck: three ladys waiting for me! I gave them my documents, but after checking my passport they refused, because during my visit to the UAE I left and entered the country for a visit to Oman. They only can give me the e-pass when I enter the UAE at the airport, not on the road!!
So I have to try the next time (or may be not, because enough is enough):mad:.

I entered the UAE the other day using my egate. No problems, let me right in. I'm here on a tourist visa awaiting either to get a job or for my marriage certificate to be attested. Heres my question- how do I prove I have a visa and am here legally? For instance, I was going to get a temporary drivers license, as we are buying a car shortly. However, I need to bring a copy of my visa. Well, I don't have a visa stamped in my passport. How do I prove I'm in the country legally if someone asks? Anyone experience this?

You need a residence visa to purchase a car here.

I'm aware of that, thanks; wasn't my question. My husband already has his residence visa. I'm waiting to find out if I have a job and will be on my own visa or for my marriage certificate to be attested be under his.

I thought you always had to be resident. I assume you got fingerprinted? My eGate card always lets me through the doors, but my finger print usually fails and they have to scan my residency visa and stamp my passport.... still better than standing in line tho.

How are you planning to get one... they are not available by request. ;)

HAHA thank you very much for your concern. I was actually planning on just going to the airport and requesting one, but now that you have clarified this for me, I guess I will have to figure out some other way.. lol j/k

Seriously though... We have some freehold properties in Dubai and are eligible for residency visa through them. My agent has already spoken to the developer, who has/will approve it. I don't really have a need for it. Oh ya, just to clarify for anyone that cares, residence visas through property ownership DO NOT come with employment privileges.

-t.

I recently tried my E-Gate (not a resident of DXB but through Skywards Gold) and i was told the rules for visitors have been changed and to go and re register at immigration. Didnt get time to do so this trip but back in 2 weeks so will do so then!

yes mine was rejected at e-gate the other week, will have to go re-register..