Arriving in a new country with family—especially with children—can be overwhelming. Recognizing this challenge, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs (GDRFA) has introduced dedicated family welcome counters at Dubai International Airport. These counters are designed to ensure families experience a faster, smoother, and more welcoming immigration process upon arrival in Dubai.

This initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to family-friendly travel, efficient immigration services, and world-class hospitality from the very first point of entry.

What Is GDRFA and Its Role in Dubai Immigration Services

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs (GDRFA) is the official authority responsible for managing:

Entry and exit of visitors and residents
Residency permits and immigration procedures
Coordination with airports and government agencies

GDRFA plays a central role in ensuring that immigration processes in Dubai remain secure, efficient, and transparent for tourists, residents, and expatriate families.

Why GDRFA Introduced Family Welcome Counters at Dubai Airport

With a growing number of families choosing Dubai for tourism, employment, and long-term residence, traditional immigration counters often resulted in:

Long waiting times
Stress for families with young children
Confusion about post-arrival formalities

To address these issues, GDRFA introduced family-specific counters to:

Reduce immigration processing time
Provide personalized assistance
Create a calm, welcoming environment for families

This initiative was launched after extensive public feedback and collaboration with Dubai Airports.

Who Can Use the GDRFA Family Counters

The family welcome counters are available to:

Families arriving together with children
Parents traveling with infants or minors
Families entering Dubai for tourism or residency
Transit families passing through Dubai

The service is available regardless of nationality, making it inclusive and accessible to all eligible travelers.

Where Are the GDRFA Family Counters Located at Dubai Airport

The dedicated GDRFA family counters are operational at:

Dubai International Airport Terminal 1
Dubai International Airport Terminal 3

These terminals handle a large volume of international family travelers, making them ideal locations for specialized support services.

How GDRFA Family Counters Work at the Airport

Arrival Process for Families

Upon arrival:

Families are directed to dedicated GDRFA family counters
Immigration formalities are handled on priority
Processing time is significantly reduced

This allows families to proceed smoothly from the airport to their accommodation.

Facilities and Child-Friendly Support at Counters

To improve comfort, the counters include:

Child-friendly furniture
Toys and reading materials
Comfortable seating areas

These facilities help children remain relaxed while formalities are completed.

Assistance Provided by GDRFA Staff

Trained GDRFA staff and volunteers assist families with:

Immigration queries
Entry-related guidance
General information about staying in Dubai

Staff members are specially trained to handle family-specific needs with care and efficiency.

Services and Information Provided to Families on Arrival

Families may receive a welcome pack or family guide, which includes:

Important contact information
Nearby healthcare facilities
Essential shopping and service locations
Basic guidance on settling in Dubai

This information helps families navigate their initial days in the city with confidence.

How GDRFA Family Services Improve the Dubai Arrival Experience

These counters offer several key benefits:

Faster immigration clearance
Reduced stress for parents and children
Personalized government assistance
A positive first impression of Dubai

The initiative aligns with Dubai’s vision of being one of the most family-friendly global destinations.

Common Challenges Families Face Without Professional Assistance

Families arriving without proper preparation often face:

Visa-related delays
Incorrect documentation
Confusion at immigration counters
Missed entry requirements

Relying on unofficial sources or last-minute arrangements increases the risk of travel disruptions.

Why Using a Professional Dubai Visa Service Is the Safer Option

Applying for your Dubai visa through a professional service ensures:

Accurate documentation submission
Expert guidance on visa type selection
Reduced risk of rejection or delays
Peace of mind before travel

A properly approved visa makes the GDRFA airport experience smoother and stress-free.

How to Apply for a Dubai Visa Before Arrival

To ensure a smooth entry for your family:

Choose the correct Dubai visa type
Submit accurate personal and travel details
Upload valid passport and required documents
Receive your Dubai visa approval before travel

Final Thoughts: A Smooth Start for Families Arriving in Dubai

The GDRFA family welcome counters at Dubai Airport demonstrate the city’s commitment to efficient immigration, family comfort, and world-class hospitality. When combined with a professionally arranged Dubai visa, families can begin their journey in Dubai with confidence, comfort, and peace of mind.

For a hassle-free entry experience, always ensure your Dubai visa is approved in advance and rely on professional services that understand UAE immigration requirements.

Apply Dubai Visa