The UAE has announced plans to issue five-year multi-entry tourist visas for all nationalities visiting the country.

The decision was made during the first UAE Cabinet meeting of 2020, which was chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the move aimed to establish the UAE as a major global tourism destination and was part of wider plans to prepare the country for the next 50 years of development.

The UAE welcomes about 21 million visitors each year. Currently, visitors from some countries can secure a 30-day visa on arrival at the airport (plus a 10-day grace period). This includes travelers from Britain, Ireland, Australia, China and Hong Kong. Other nationalities, including European citizens from the Schengen Area, can secure a 90-day visa.

This announcement is welcome news for the economy of the UAE- industry analysts believe that tourist spending will substantially increase due to longer stays, while the real estate sector could benefit by attracting more people to become residents and invest in property.

The new initiative will be introduced within the next four months. No further information is available at this time.