If you have received an email that appears to be from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-D), but seems suspicious, it is advisable to carefully review the contents before divulging any information.
In a recent public security awareness message posted on the official GDRFA-D website – gdrfad.gov.ae – the authority emphatically stated that it will never request personal information via phone or email.
The message further emphasized the importance of exercising caution and refraining from sharing sensitive details such as passport number, Emirates ID, and bank information.
It is crucial to exercise vigilance and exercise discretion when encountering such emails, as cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to deceive individuals. By remaining alert and adhering to the guidelines provided by the GDRFA-D, we can protect ourselves from potential scams and safeguard our personal information.
Official contact channels for GDRFA-D
If you are uncertain about the authenticity of a message you have received from GDRFA-D, there are several channels through which you can contact them:
- Toll-free number within the UAE – 8005111. This number is available 24/7.
- International contact center for individuals outside the UAE – 971 04 313 9999.
- Email – amer@gdrfad.gov.ae.
These channels can also be utilized if you have applied for any of the visa services, such as a Golden Visa, Green Visa, or a five-year multiple entry visa.
Feel free to reach out to GDRFA-D through these reliable channels to clarify any doubts or concerns you may have regarding their messages or visa services.
Contact GDRFA-D through a video call:
If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding residency visas or entry permits, you can now conveniently request a video call through the official GDRFA-D website – www.gdrfad.gov.ae. This user-friendly service is accessible to anyone with a device equipped with a front camera or webcam.
How to check Dubai visa status
If you have submitted a visa application through the GDRFA-D website, you can easily check its status by entering either your passport number or application number as follows:
ICP service
If you possess a visit or residence visa issued by any of the following emirates – Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah – you can easily verify its validity on the website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). Follow these steps to check your visa validity:
- Visit the following link: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/default.html#/fileValidity
2. Initially, you must choose whether you want to search for your visa’s validity using either:
a. File number
b. Passport information
3. Next, select whether you possess a residence visa or a visit visa. If you hold a residence visa, choose the “residency” option. If you have a visit visa, select the “visa” option.
4. Then, provide one of the following details:
a. Emirates Unified Number (UID number)
b. File number – You can locate the file number on the visa sticker in your passport or on the e-visa you received as a visitor.
c. Emirates ID number (if you selected the residency option)
d. Passport number (if you chose the “passport information” option in Step 2)
5. Enter your date of birth.
6. Complete the Captcha verification.
7. Click on “Search”.
The system will then display the following details regarding your visa:
- File number
• UID number
• File status
• File issuance date
• File expiry date
Alternatively, if you have any inquiries regarding visa issuance, types, or validity, you can contact the ICP customer service at 600522222 or visit their website at https://icp.gov.ae/en/contact-us/.
GDRFA Dubai service
To verify the validity of your entry permit or residence visa issued in Dubai, you can conveniently access the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai website. Follow these simple steps:
- Begin by visiting the website: https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Public_Th/StatusInquiry_New.aspx
- You will be prompted to choose the method of searching for your visa’s validity. The options include:
a. Application number (if you have recently applied for your visa)
b. File number (if your visa has already been issued)
c. Over-the-counter service applications
d. Special requests
e. Establishment (for establishments registered with GDRFA) - Depending on your selection in Step 2, provide the relevant details. For instance, if you opt for ‘file number’, you will be required to enter your first name, file number, nationality, and date of birth.
- Complete the Captcha verification by checking the designated box.
- Finally, click on the ‘Search’ button to retrieve the information you seek.
Alternatively, if you reside within the UAE, you can contact the Amer center toll-free at 800 5111. If you are outside the UAE, dial Amer’s toll-free number at +9714-313-9999.
By following these instructions, you can easily and efficiently check the validity of your visa.
Also Read: The new GDRFA app lets you apply for or renew a Dubai visa