Dubai has taken significant steps toward digital transformation with the launch of 'Salama', an AI-powered platform introduced by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). This innovative system is set to revolutionize the way residents manage their visa and residency permits, underscoring the emirate's commitment to enhancing government services through cutting-edge technology.
During GDRFA’s fourth annual media briefing, Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, the Director General of GDRFA Dubai, detailed how 'Salama' enables users to complete residency-related tasks such as renewing or canceling permits and fielding general inquiries, all within just two minutes. Users can make transactions directly on the platform, eliminating the cumbersome need for traditional application forms or trips to service centers—one more step toward fulfilling the UAE Vision 2071.
“We believe digital transformation is not merely an upgrade of services, but it’s about re-defining the user experience,” Maj Gen Al Marri stated. His comments highlight the GDRFA's aim to not just improve efficiency but to reimagine what government service should look like for Dubai's residents.
'Salama' is not just about speeding up processes; it offers integrated payment options, ensuring all necessary transactions can be handled online. Once registered, users can log in and have their statuses instantly recognized, which dramatically speeds up the residency management workflow. The platform is also equipped to handle functions like monitoring the expiration dates of dependents' visas, allowing users to act swiftly.
Colonel Khalid bin Mediya Al Falasi, Assistant Director General for Digital Services Affairs, echoed similar sentiments about the platform's advanced capabilities, noting how it leverages sophisticated AI algorithms to anticipate user needs and provide rapid responses. The platform’s interactive architecture is touted to make the user experience highly personalized, ensuring residents feel heard and valued.
A live demonstration during the launch showcased just how effective 'Salama' can be, with one user renewing their child's residency permit in under two minutes—a process previously laden with bureaucracy and delays. This rapid service has set new standards for what residents can expect from government digital services.
But the innovations don’t stop there. The RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) also recently announced plans to revamp the city’s traffic management through smarter signals, utilizing AI technologies similar to those found within 'Salama'. This new project, known as the UTC-UX Fusion system, is projected to be completed by the first half of 2026. The goal is to make traffic lights adaptive to real-time conditions, leading to smoother flow and lesser congestion at major intersections.
Such advances are indicative of Dubai's broader approach to tackling everyday challenges through technology. The GDRFA's initiatives, alongside the RTA's innovative traffic solutions, reflect the government's overarching strategy to cut processing times and reduce paperwork, enhancing operational efficiency across the board.
Another major initiative is the Work Bundle platform, which seeks to expedite residency and work permit processes for businesses significantly. After its initial launch this year, the platform has reduced the time required to process residency visas from as long as 30 days down to five days. This is particularly beneficial for employers managing staffing needs swiftly and efficiently.
Khalil Khoori, Undersecretary for Human Resources Affairs, noted the positive reception of the Work Bundle service, stating, “Procedures took 20-30 days can now be completed within five days.” This indicates serious progress not only for the business sector but also for the labor force employed by the more than 600,000 companies operating within the UAE.
Dubai’s government isn’t stopping here; new frameworks and systems are continually being developed to address and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. The seamless provision of services through platforms like 'Salama' and the proactive approach of various departments exemplify what might be possible when the right technology meets efficient governance.
The future of Dubai's government services seems bright and fast-moving. With every innovative leap forward, residents can expect services to become more accessible, making daily tasks simpler and enjoyable. It is all part of the city’s commitment to not just meet but exceed the expectations of its people on their digital journeys.