Pro-Syrian regime media outlets circulated rumors that the United Arab Emirates has banned issuing tourist visas to Syrians, which sparked confusion among the lack of clarification or any official announcements from the UAE.
Loyalist media sites turned to Emirati travel agencies for more information. Alqaed Travel and Tourism agency denied receiving any decision of this nature and explained that issuing tourist visas is merely suspended and will be reinstated on Sunday for those with passports that have a remaining validity of 6 years.
The agency confirmed that the renewal of visas for Syrians in the UAE are not included in the suspension, and that the visas of those holding passports with a validity of two years will be renewed inside the country.
In light of the coronavirus pandemic, entry visas to the UAE will remain available for those over 40 years of age, provided the 6 years passport validity.
Female travellers under the age of 18 will not be able to obtain a tourist visa unless accompanied with a parent or a guardian.
In 2018, the same agency announced that tourist visas would be only granted for Syrian and Palestinian-Syrian men over 45 and under 11 years old, while women were able to receive visas without similar restrictions.
Men who did not meet the requirements could apply through a relative with residency, who has to present a copy of property deed, electricity bill, and work contract, and should have a salary of over 5,000 AED ($1,300).
Eqtsad
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