The UAE inclusion in Global Entry Programme is a landmark development for all Emirati travellers as the membership facilitates quicker and easier entry through busy US airports, letting them skip long queues and focus on the joy of travelling instead.
Global Entry is a US government-run programme that screens the security background of applicants before travel. Members can immediately check in at a Global Entry kiosk at a US airport. The programme expedites customs checks for preapproved travellers.
The membership for UAE citizens is set to take effect in October 2024. The announcement is part of joint UAE-US efforts to enhance security relations and facilitate travel opportunities. Participants must still have a valid US visa to enter the country.
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Global Entry Programme accessible to all UAE citizens
The UAE inclusion in Global Entry came during a visit by Emirati leader HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, as he and US President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and business leaders such as Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella engaged in meticulous discussions.
During the trip, both countries emphasised areas of collaboration, focusing on business, climate action, foreign policy, artificial intelligence, modern technology and space exploration. The burgeoning UAE-US bilateral relations share a deep history of over 50 years.
The programme’s services are accessible to all UAE citizens holding a valid US visa. The Gulf state is one of the latest countries to join Global Entry that is available to US citizens, permanent residents of the US and citizens of 15 other countries, including Bahrain and India.
Once accepted, Global Entry membership lasts 5 years
In order to qualify for the Global Entry Programme, all UAE applicants must create a Trusted Traveller Programs (TTP) account, pay a non-refundable application fee of $100 and schedule an interview. They must bring their valid passport and one other form of identification.
Emiratis receiving conditional approval can complete their application-vetting process either on arrival in the US at an enrollment on arrival location or by scheduling an appointment at the nearest enrollment centre in their home country, according to The National.
The interview normally happens at most 15 days after the submission of the application. If an additional checking of the application is needed, a manual review is done – a process that could take up to 24 months to complete. Once accepted, the membership lasts 5 years.
Dubai a top summer destination for US travellers
The popularity of Dubai as a summer destination is only increasing as the city in June 2023 secured a spot in the list of top three most popular destinations for US travellers. Dubai ranked after Honolulu and Tokyo, according to Germany’s search platform Trivago.
The survey – conducted online and running from March 13-17 found that more US travellers are expected to enter Dubai to spend the summer than Istanbul, Lahaina, Palm Beach, Hong Kong, Belek and Paradise Island City.
The travel and tourism sector in Dubai has strongly rebounded after the pandemic. More than 10.6 international tourists arrived in the city in the first seven months of 2024, representing a stunning 8% increase from the same period last year, as per the tourism performance report.
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