Spouse visa: Who covers health insurance cost?
When applying for a spouse visa Dubai, health insurance is mandatory. The sponsoring spouse is generally responsible for covering this cost. Without valid insurance, the residence visa cannot be issued or renewed. Understanding your options can save time and money while keeping you compliant with UAE regulations. Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance One common method is to include the spouse in an existing employer-provided health plan. This can be cost-effective and convenient. Individual Health Insurance If your employer cannot include your spouse, you must purchase a separate health insurance plan. This is a legal requirement for the spouse visa Dubai. Costs to Consider Health insurance premiums vary depending on several factors: Regardless of the plan, paying for health insurance is unavoidable. It is a mandatory cost that sponsors must budget for when applying for a spouse visa. Tips for a Smooth Process Summary Obtaining a spouse visa in Dubai comes with clear responsibilities. The sponsoring spouse must ensure health insurance coverage. Whether through employer-sponsored plans or individual policies, this step is essential to comply with UAE law. By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can secure coverage efficiently and avoid delays in visa processing. Make your spouse visa process hassle-free with AR Associates. Contact AR Associates today!
What Does UAE’s New Worker Health Insurance Cover?
The UAE has taken a major step to protect employees’ well-being with the introduction of UAE’s worker health insurance. Starting January 2025, all private-sector and domestic workers across the Northern Emirates — Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah — must have basic medical coverage provided by their employers. Who Provides the Insurance Employers are legally required to purchase and maintain this coverage. The insurance must be active when applying for or renewing residency permits. The policy is available through the DubaiCare Network by Dubai Insurance. Who Is Exempt This new rule applies only to workers in the Northern Emirates. Abu Dhabi and Dubai already have mandatory health insurance systems, so the new scheme doesn’t change coverage in those emirates. Family Coverage Workers can extend their insurance to include dependents like spouses and children. To apply, the sponsor must provide Emirates IDs, passports, and proof of active worker insurance. Dependents above 64 may need additional medical documents or reports. What’s Covered The UAE’s worker health insurance offers wide-ranging benefits designed to make healthcare affordable and accessible: Exclusions Some treatments are not part of the basic plan. These include: Why This Policy Matters This initiative improves healthcare access for thousands of low-income workers and helps prevent untreated conditions. It aligns with the UAE’s broader goal of ensuring quality healthcare for all residents. By offering standardized coverage, it also reduces the financial strain of medical costs for both workers and employers. How to Get Coverage Employers must register their workers on the DubaiCare platform. Once approved, employees receive an insurance card or digital ID, which grants access to registered hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Workers can also track coverage and claims online. This reform makes healthcare more reliable, affordable, and consistent for every employee — a major milestone in worker welfare. Need help understanding health insurance rules or applying for worker coverage? Contact AR Associates for expert guidance and smooth documentation support.
How to Apply for a Birth Certificate in Dubai
Getting a birth certificate in Dubai is now a simple and fast process, thanks to digital services introduced by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Parents can apply online without visiting any offices, saving time and effort. Here’s a clear guide on how to apply, what documents are required, and how to receive the certificate. Who Can Apply The parents of the newborn—either the mother or father—can apply for the certificate. In Dubai, every child born in a hospital receives a digital birth notification. This is the first step in getting the birth certificate issued by the DHA. Documents Needed The required documents depend on whether the parents are UAE citizens or residents. For UAE citizens: For non-UAE residents: Make sure all documents are verified before uploading. If the marriage certificate is from another country, it must be attested by the UAE Embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. How to Apply Online After submission, the DHA reviews your application. Once approved, the birth certificate is sent to your registered email within one working day. Language Options and Delivery You can choose to receive the certificate in Arabic, English, or Urdu. A digital copy is emailed, but you can request a printed copy through courier delivery for an additional fee. This is helpful for families who need physical copies for embassy registration or travel documentation. Lost or Damaged Certificates If your original birth certificate is lost or damaged, you can apply for a replacement through the same DHA portal. You’ll need: Once verified, DHA issues a replacement electronically, with delivery options similar to the original process. Getting Extra Copies Parents can also request extra copies of the birth certificate online. Simply upload the existing certificate and parent IDs, pay the standard fee, and DHA will issue the copies digitally. Key Points to Remember Final Thoughts Getting a birth certificate in Dubai has become a convenient, fully digital process. Whether you’re a UAE national or an expatriate, you can complete the entire application online—from document submission to payment and delivery. The system ensures faster processing, fewer delays, and easy access to one of the most essential documents for your child. Need help with UAE documentation or visa services?Reach out to AR Associates Visa Services for expert assistance and smooth application support.
UAE smoking rules: What’s allowed and what’s not
The UAE takes public health seriously — and that includes strict control over where people can smoke. From traditional cigarettes to vapes and shisha, every form of smoking is governed by clear regulations. Understanding what’s allowed and what’s not under UAE smoking laws can help residents and visitors stay compliant and avoid heavy fines. Smoking in public spaces Smoking is not permitted in enclosed public areas. That means malls, cinemas, cafes, offices, hospitals, and public transport are smoke-free zones. Even taxis and metro stations fall under this restriction. Only licensed smoking rooms with proper ventilation are exempt, and these are limited to certain public venues such as airports and some shopping malls. Smoking is also banned in schools, government buildings, and healthcare facilities. In parks, beaches, and recreational spots, you’ll find designated areas where smoking is allowed, but outside those zones, it’s prohibited. Smoking near children The UAE enforces strong protection for children. It is illegal to smoke in a car if a child under 12 is present. Violations can result in fines starting from AED 5,000. Under Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 (Wadeema’s Law), selling tobacco to anyone under 18 is banned. Sellers must verify age before completing any sale, or they risk legal penalties and fines that can reach up to AED 1 million in severe cases. Shisha and proximity rules Shisha cafés are allowed to operate only with a licence and must be at least 150 metres away from residential buildings, schools, and mosques. Dubai Municipality bans shisha smoking in public parks, beaches, and open recreational areas. Pregnant women are not allowed to enter shisha cafés, even if they do not intend to smoke. Sharjah, on the other hand, has a complete ban on shisha and smoking in public areas since 2008. Vaping regulations Electronic cigarettes and vape devices are treated the same as tobacco under UAE smoking laws. Vaping indoors or in enclosed spaces is not allowed unless in a licensed smoking area. The same ventilation and isolation standards apply. These rules aim to prevent secondhand exposure and ensure safe public environments. Where smoking is allowed Smokers can use designated outdoor areas where no prohibition signs are displayed. Some beaches and open-air spaces allow cigarette smoking, though shisha remains restricted. Licensed smoking rooms are available in select places like airports or certain hotels, provided they meet safety standards. Licensed shisha cafés may offer indoor or outdoor options if they follow location, ventilation, and customer restrictions. Workplace rules and public health focus Many companies have adopted tobacco-free workplace policies. This includes bans across entire premises — both indoors and outdoors. Employees caught smoking in restricted areas may face disciplinary action. The Ministry of Health and Prevention continues to promote awareness about tobacco risks and supports tobacco-free initiatives across the UAE. Summary The UAE’s tobacco control policies are strict but clear. Smoking in public spaces is tightly regulated to protect children, non-smokers, and the environment. Whether you’re lighting a cigarette, using a vape, or enjoying shisha, make sure you understand the laws to avoid fines and support a cleaner, healthier UAE. Planning to move or work in the UAE? Get expert guidance on visa processing, documentation, and relocation support with AR Associates Visa Services — making your UAE journey smoother from start to finish.
UAE Visa: Where to Get Medical Fitness Test in Dubai
If you are applying for a UAE Visa, a medical fitness test is mandatory. This test ensures applicants meet the country’s health requirements. Only approved medical centers can conduct the examination. Why the Medical Fitness Test is RequiredThe UAE government requires all visa applicants to undergo a health screening. The test checks for communicable diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis. Results are necessary for visa approval. Employers and immigration authorities rely on this process to maintain public health standards. Where to Get the Test in DubaiDubai has several authorized medical centers for UAE Visa health checks. The main centers include: Steps for the Medical Fitness Test Tips for a Smooth Process Cost and TimingMedical fitness test fees range between AED 250–500. Most centers provide results within 24–72 hours. Some private hospitals offer faster service. Key Points to Remember Completing the medical fitness test is a crucial step in obtaining a UAE Visa. Choosing the right center ensures accurate results and smooth visa processing. Need assistance with your UAE Visa application? Contact AR Associates for expert visa services and step-by-step support.
Who is Responsible for Health Insurance in the UAE?
In the UAE, health insurance is mandatory for all employees. The responsibility usually falls on employers and sponsors. Rules differ slightly depending on the emirate and whether you are covering dependents. Abu Dhabi Employers in Abu Dhabi must provide health insurance for their employees and typically for their families. This usually covers one spouse and up to three children under 18. Individuals earning under AED 5,000 per month, or AED 4,000 with housing allowance, are entitled to a basic coverage plan. Families with more children or those seeking extended coverage can purchase additional plans. Dubai Dubai has strict health insurance requirements under the Dubai Health Insurance Law, effective since January 2014. Employers must provide an Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) for employees. Premiums usually range from AED 550 to AED 650. Employees whose employers only cover themselves must arrange separate coverage for their dependents, including spouse, children, and parents. Northern Emirates In Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, all private sector employees and domestic workers must have basic health insurance. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) introduced the Health Insurance Scheme in December 2024. This scheme ensures all workers have access to healthcare. Dependents receive the same benefits as the worker, according to the insurance policy. Who Handles Health Insurance? Employers are responsible for purchasing health insurance in UAE. This is required to issue or renew residency permits. Policies can be obtained through accredited insurance providers or government networks like DubaiCare. These channels offer competitive rates, making it affordable for employers while ensuring workers get proper coverage. Key Points to Remember Health insurance in UAE ensures everyone has access to healthcare. Employers, sponsors, and government schemes work together to make coverage available. Understanding your rights and responsibilities helps avoid fines and ensures proper medical care. Looking to set up a company, get visa assistance, or need legal guidance in the UAE? Contact AR Associates for expert advice and smooth, hassle-free services tailored to your needs.
How to Get Your Dubai Visit Visa Deposit Back?
When sponsoring a family member or friend for a Dubai visit visa, a refundable security deposit is part of the total application cost. Many residents forget this amount can be claimed back — but only under certain conditions and within a set time frame. Here’s how to check eligibility, prepare documents, and apply for your refund smoothly. When You Can Apply for the Refund You can claim the deposit only after the visitor leaves the UAE or changes their visa status to residency. The refund request must be submitted within 30 days of departure to remain valid.If you are a Dubai resident, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD) handles the refund process directly. Refund Amounts and Service Fees Here’s what you need to know about the deposit and charges: Keep your payment receipt safe, as you’ll need it when applying for the refund. Required Documents To process your refund, you must prove that the visitor has exited the UAE. You can do this using: You’ll also need: In some cases, you won’t need to submit exit proof if the immigration system has already updated the departure automatically. How to Apply for the Refund Online Applying online is simple and takes just a few minutes.Follow these steps: Refunds are usually processed within two working days and credited directly to your registered bank account. What If You Applied Through a Travel Agency? If a licensed travel agency or airline sponsored the Dubai visit visa, the refund will be handled through them. Contact the agency directly with your payment receipt and visitor’s exit proof. They may take a few extra days to release the refund, depending on their internal process. Always verify that the travel agency holds a valid Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) licence and an Immigration Establishment Card before booking future visas. This ensures your money and documents are secure. Common Reasons for Refund Delays Refunds may take longer if: To avoid delays, double-check all application details before submitting. Final Thoughts Claiming your Dubai visit visa deposit is a quick process when done through official channels. Always track the visitor’s departure, keep your receipts safe, and apply within the 30-day window to receive your refund without hassle. Need expert help with UAE visa services?Contact AR Associates Visa Services for reliable visa assistance, renewals, and refunds — handled quickly and professionally.
Dubai’s Golden Visa for Teachers: Who Is Eligible?
Teachers play a key role in shaping Dubai’s future, and the city is now recognising that with long-term stability. The UAE government has opened up Dubai’s Golden Visa for teachers, giving qualified educators a 10-year residency that celebrates their impact in classrooms and communities. This initiative, launched by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), aims to attract and retain the best educators across all levels — from early childhood to university teaching. What is Dubai’s Golden Visa for teachers? It’s a long-term residency visa that allows eligible educators to live and work in Dubai without needing regular visa renewals. The visa is part of the city’s “Education 33” strategy, designed to make Dubai a global hub for quality education. The program acknowledges teachers not only for academic excellence but also for leadership, innovation, and contribution to the broader educational ecosystem. Who can apply? Applications are open to educators in both public and private sectors, including: All applicants must be currently working in Dubai and have a valid employment contract within an approved institution. Eligibility criteria To qualify for Dubai’s Golden Visa for teachers, candidates must meet one or more of the following requirements: Teachers with national or international awards, or those who have introduced notable educational programs, are given priority consideration. Benefits of the Golden Visa The visa provides more than long-term residency. It offers teachers stability and a sense of belonging. Key benefits include: This initiative aims to make teachers feel valued and secure, ensuring their continued contribution to Dubai’s thriving education sector. How to apply Eligible teachers can apply directly through the KHDA website or via their school administration. Applications usually require: The KHDA reviews each application carefully, selecting educators who demonstrate excellence and commitment to the city’s education goals. A step toward a stronger education system The Golden Visa aligns with Dubai’s larger plan to raise education standards and attract global teaching talent. It’s not just about keeping good teachers — it’s about building a stronger, smarter, and more stable educational community. In essence, this initiative is a message of appreciation. It tells educators that their role is vital to Dubai’s growth, and their dedication deserves long-term recognition. Looking to apply for a Golden Visa or need help with the process?Contact AR Associates Visa Services for professional support with documentation and application assistance.
Do You Need a Guarantor When Applying for a UAE Visit Visa?
Many travelers wonder if a guarantor is required when applying for a UAE visit visa. The answer depends on how you apply and your purpose of visit. While some visitors need a local sponsor or guarantor, others can apply through licensed travel agencies, hotels, or airlines that handle visa processing on their behalf. Understanding the Guarantor Requirement A guarantor or sponsor is a person or organization in the UAE who takes legal responsibility for your stay. This system helps authorities ensure that visitors have a valid reason to enter and someone accountable if rules are broken. It’s common for the guarantor to be a UAE resident or a licensed company such as a travel agency or hotel. If your nationality is not eligible for a visa on arrival, you’ll need to apply for a UAE visit visa before traveling. In most cases, this means having a guarantor who will submit and support your application. When a Guarantor Is Required A guarantor is needed when applying through a UAE resident. That resident must meet the minimum income requirement to qualify. The amount varies based on the relationship: This ensures the guarantor has enough financial stability to support the visitor during their stay. When You Don’t Need a Personal Guarantor Even if you don’t know anyone in the UAE, you can still apply for a visit visa. Several authorized channels can act as your official guarantor or sponsor: 1. Licensed Travel Agencies:Many reputable agencies in the UAE can process your visit visa application. They handle all paperwork and deal directly with immigration authorities. This option is ideal for tourists booking holiday packages or independent trips. 2. UAE Hotels:Hotels in the UAE can also sponsor tourist visas for their guests. You’ll usually need to confirm your booking directly with the hotel. This works well for short leisure stays. 3. UAE-Based Airlines:Major airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia, and FlyDubai provide visa services for travelers who book flights with them. Each has dedicated visa processing centers that manage the entire process. How to Verify a Legitimate Agency Before submitting documents, always check if the agency or hotel is authorized.A valid travel agency must: You can ask the agency to share a copy of their trade license—it’s a standard request and helps prevent fraud. New Visa Categories and Opportunities Recent updates from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) introduced new visa categories. These include specialist visas for professionals in AI, event visas for conference visitors, and cruise visas for travelers arriving by sea. Such options make the UAE even more accessible for short and long-term visitors. Final Thoughts While a guarantor is still needed for most visit visa applications, travelers without personal contacts in the UAE have reliable alternatives. Whether applying through a travel agency, hotel, or airline, ensure you choose a licensed and trusted source to avoid visa issues. If you’re applying for a Visa for Dubai, understanding these sponsorship rules can help you prepare the right documents and pick the right channel for approval. Applying through verified services also ensures faster processing and peace of mind during your travel planning. Planning to visit the UAE?Let AR Associates Visa Services assist with your Visa for Dubai — from documentation to approval, handled with care and accuracy.
Updated Benefits Every UAE Golden Visa Holder Should Know
The UAE continues to enhance the privileges of its long-term residents. The recent updates to the Dubai Golden Visa make it more than just a residency program—it’s now a complete support system that extends beyond borders. These new benefits provide greater convenience, safety, and peace of mind for residents and their families, especially during travel or emergencies. 1. Quick Return Permit in Case of Lost Passport Golden Visa holders who lose their passport while abroad can now get an electronic return permit within 30 minutes—free of charge. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) launched this service to ensure residents can re-enter the UAE quickly and safely. The process is simple. Applicants submit a lost passport report, Golden Visa details, and a passport-sized photo through the MoFA website or app using UAE Pass. Once approved, the return permit is valid for seven days and allows a single entry into the UAE. This service eliminates long embassy visits and provides quick reassurance in stressful travel situations. 2. 24/7 Hotline for Assistance Golden Visa residents now have direct access to a dedicated hotline at +971 2 493 1133. This 24-hour service connects residents to the MoFA call center, offering help with inquiries, travel concerns, and emergencies abroad. Having a direct line ensures immediate response during urgent situations, whether it’s a medical emergency, travel delay, or lost documents. 3. Emergency and Crisis Support Overseas The UAE now offers expanded emergency and crisis support for Golden Visa holders through its embassies and consulates. In the event of natural disasters, accidents, or political unrest, UAE missions will provide temporary shelter, evacuation support, and necessary coordination with local authorities. This step highlights the government’s commitment to safeguarding its residents, even when they are far from home. 4. Repatriation and Burial Support In the unfortunate event of a resident’s passing abroad, MoFA will now assist with repatriation or burial arrangements. The process involves coordination between UAE missions and local authorities to ensure smooth handling and support for the family. This service removes much of the administrative burden during a difficult time and ensures dignified, timely arrangements. Why These Updates Matter These new measures reflect the UAE’s ongoing commitment to making the Dubai Golden Visa more than a long-term residency—it’s a promise of care, safety, and connection to the UAE wherever residents go. From instant return permits to global emergency support, every update ensures that Golden Visa holders enjoy a sense of security no matter where life takes them. Looking to apply or renew your Dubai Golden Visa?Reach out to AR Associates for expert visa guidance, documentation support, and end-to-end assistance tailored to your residency needs.
