Initiative aims to revive travel after regional conflict disrupted the emirate’s tourism sector, with Indian travellers expected to benefit
PRAVASISAMWAD.COM
Dubai has introduced a new tourism incentive programme that rewards eligible UAE residents for inviting friends and family from overseas, as the emirate seeks to revive visitor numbers following disruption caused by the recent regional conflict in West Asia.
Under the ‘Dubai Invite’ scheme, residents can nominate non-UAE residents to visit Dubai on a valid tourist visa. If the nominated visitors complete their trip, the resident can receive a benefits package worth up to AED 3,000, including hotel stays, dining offers and tickets to selected attractions. Each resident can qualify for rewards for up to three visitors under the programme.
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The initiative comes after the UAE’s tourism industry faced significant challenges following the military escalation involving the United States, Israel and Iran earlier this year
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Although the UAE’s air defence systems intercepted many incoming missiles and drones, the conflict disrupted air travel, affected tourism activity and dented confidence among international visitors
Indian travellers are expected to be among the key beneficiaries of the programme, given the strong travel links between India and the UAE. Millions of Indians visit Dubai every year for tourism, business and family visits, making India one of the emirate’s largest source markets for international visitors.
According to the eligibility guidelines, nominated visitors must not be UAE residents and must enter the country on a tourist visa. The programme is intended to encourage repeat travel while leveraging the large expatriate population living in the UAE to promote Dubai as a holiday destination.
Dubai welcomed record international arrivals in 2025, but authorities are now focusing on restoring momentum after geopolitical tensions affected regional travel. Officials hope the referral-based initiative will help attract more visitors in the coming months while supporting hotels, airlines, restaurants and the wider tourism economy.
