Situated in the western part of Dubai, the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is known as the world’s largest free economic zone. Thousands of employees come here everyday. And now — thanks to a new agreement — these workers will be able to have their visas processed within 24 hours.
On Monday, Jafza signed an agreement with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) to improve the visa processing of workers in the free zone, along with those working in the National Industries Park (NIP), Gulf News reported.
Image Credit: @jafzadubai on Twitter
24-Hour Visa Processing for Jafza Employees
This new agreement mandates GDRFA to deliver “enhanced services” to companies in Jafza and NIP. The subsidiary of global ports operator, DP World, announced: “The time taken to process visas and related transactions is being cut to 24 hours.” As a result, more than 150,000 employees in around 7,500 companies are set to benefit.
“Simplifying business process results in increased efficiency and more productive companies and employees,” stated Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DP World. “The agreement represents a new phase of cooperation with the GDFRA and integrates business practices as directed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.”
Through their official Twitter account, Jafza shared about the signing of the new agreement:
Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO & MD, DP World, UAE Region and CEO of Jafza, and Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA signed a cooperation agreement to further simplify existing visa procedures and improve customer experience for Jafza and NIP companies. pic.twitter.com/axzsjobkEA
— Jebel Ali Free Zone (@jafzadubai) July 2, 2018
Boosting Productivity & Foreign Investment
The agreement between Jafza and GDRFA is bound to increase productivity in the free zone as well as in NIP. In addition, it would also boost foreign investment. At present, Jafza attracts over 20 percent of the country’s direct foreign investment. Thousands of companies hold offices here, with many of them catering to regional and global markets.
Indeed, this latest agreement makes it easier for employees in the free zone to process their visas. Speaking of employment, did you know that you can hold multiple jobs in the UAE? Read more about working part-time and holding two or more jobs in the country.