Dubai’s new visitor rewards programme has generated a strong early response, with more than 10,000 applications submitted within 48 hours of its launch, prompting authorities to consider increasing the number of available reward packages.
The initiative, known as Dubai Invite, is run by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and encourages UAE residents to invite friends and family from overseas to experience the emirate. Eligible participants can receive reward packages worth more than Dh3,000 in combined discounts and offers after their nominated visitors arrive in Dubai.
According to DET, the unexpectedly high level of interest has sparked internal discussions about expanding the programme’s available benefits to accommodate growing demand.
The campaign forms part of Dubai’s broader strategy to encourage residents to serve as ambassadors for the city while supporting the tourism sector through personal travel recommendations.
How the programme works
UAE citizens and residents aged 18 and above with a valid Emirates ID can register eligible visitors arriving in Dubai between July 20 and Oct. 31, 2026.
Residents may nominate up to five visitors in a single application, with additional submissions allowed for other guests. However, each visitor can only be registered once under the programme and must be travelling on a tourist visa or be eligible for a visa on arrival. UAE residents are not eligible as nominated visitors.
After the guest’s arrival is verified through government systems, residents receive their reward package by email. According to DET, benefits will begin being issued within 72 hours of verification from August onward.
Each resident can unlock a maximum of three reward packages during the campaign.
Rewards worth more than Dh3,000
The programme offers discounts and special benefits across hotels, attractions, restaurants and transport providers throughout Dubai.
Participating partners include Careem, Hala, IHG Hotels & Resorts, W Dubai Mina Seyahi, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, Meliá Desert Palm, Aquaventure Waterpark, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and several dining venues.
The stated value of more than Dh3,000 reflects the combined savings available across participating offers rather than a direct cash payment.
Unless otherwise specified, benefits remain valid until Dec. 31, 2026.
Tourism strategy
Dubai Invite is part of DET’s wider City Ambassadors initiative, which encourages residents to promote Dubai through personal recommendations to relatives and friends abroad.
The programme also aligns with the emirate’s efforts to boost visitor numbers and encourage longer stays by giving residents additional incentives to host overseas guests.
Applications remain open for eligible visitor arrivals until Oct. 31, 2026, and DET has indicated similar campaigns could be introduced again in the future if demand continues.
