Dubai Launches ‘Salama’ AI Platform To Simplify Visa Service

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai has launched a revolutionary artificial intelligence platform called ‘Salama’, designed to transform residency and visa services in the emirate.

The announcement was made at the Fourth Annual Media Council under the theme “Media Vision Shaping the Future,” attended by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, alongside senior officials and media influencers.

What Is ‘Salama’?

The ‘Salama’ platform aims to streamline residency services, offering a fast and hassle-free way for users to manage essential tasks. It allows users to complete transactions, make payments, and handle residency-related actions without traditional paperwork or the need to visit service centers.

This digital-first approach supports the UAE’s Vision 2071 and aligns with Dubai’s broader Digital Transformation Strategy, highlighting the city’s commitment to a tech-driven future.

Driving Digital Transformation

Lieutenant General Al Marri emphasized how digital technology is reshaping Dubai’s service landscape.

“Digital transformation is not just about building services; it’s about redefining customer experiences, improving government performance, and fulfilling the visionary leadership’s goal of providing more accessible, efficient services,” he said.

He added that ‘Salama’ is a testament to the GDRFA’s dedication to leveraging advanced technology to enhance life in Dubai.

Simplifying Visa Processes

The platform’s primary focus is simplifying residency processes for individuals. Through ‘Salama’, users can:

• Renew or cancel residency permits
• Get quick responses to visa inquiries
• Complete transactions seamlessly

These features eliminate the need to navigate multiple systems or visit service centers, offering a highly efficient and user-friendly experience. The GDRFA also plans to extend these services to companies in the future.

A Major Shift in Government Services

Colonel Khalid bin Madia Al Falasi, Assistant Director General of the Digital Services Affairs Sector at GDRFA Dubai, highlighted the platform’s impact:

“The launch of the ‘Salama’ AI platform marks a major shift in how users engage with government services. Using sophisticated algorithms, the platform tailors responses to individual needs, offering quick, accurate service.”

Currently, ‘Salama’ is available for individuals, primarily for renewing or canceling residency permits. The next phase will introduce services for companies.

How To Use ‘Salama’

Residents can access ‘Salama’ through Dubai’s smart channels and via UAE Pass. During the event, a live demonstration showcased the platform’s speed, completing a residency permit renewal in just a few seconds.

The system automatically recognizes the applicant’s data, displays dependent details, and allows seamless processing of residency renewals. Once the payment is made, the renewed visa is sent directly to the registered email.

Fast, Multilingual, and User-Friendly

Colonel Al Falasi noted that the platform currently supports over 40 languages, with plans to add more. Each transaction takes only 10-20 seconds, showcasing the efficiency of this AI-driven service.

How It Works: Three Simple Steps

Through ‘Salama’, residents can renew their visas in under 20 seconds by following these steps:

• Select the visa duration
• Make the payment
• Receive the renewed residence permit

This streamlined process not only saves time but also enhances the overall experience for Dubai’s residents.

A Step Toward a Digital Future

The launch of ‘Salama’ is a clear indication of Dubai’s ambition to lead in digital transformation. With its quick and efficient residency services, ‘Salama’ sets a new standard for government service delivery, paving the way for a smarter, more connected city.