Dubai:H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has announced two new initiatives aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Dubai's tourism sector. These initiatives are designed to facilitate access for visitors, strengthen their connection with the city, and provide a seamless travel experience, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The goal is to position Dubai among the world's top three global destinations for business and leisure.

According to Emirates News Agency, the measures include the launch of the world's first city-led, invitation-only tourism membership programme and a new option to apply for tourist visas through Visit Dubai, the city's official tourism website. These initiatives will be implemented in November 2026, developed through collaboration between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFA Dubai), the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and Digital Dubai under the Shared Digital Channels Initiative.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the emirate's commitment to enhancing its appeal as a leading global tourism hub through innovation, outstanding services, and memorable experiences. He highlighted that these initiatives aim to enrich every stage of the visitor journey, setting new standards for hospitality and service excellence. The Dubai Access Club, part of these initiatives, will offer exclusive experiences and benefits to encourage repeat visits.

The Shared Digital Channels Initiative will integrate more government services, including tourist visa applications, into Visit Dubai, simplifying the visitor journey by providing a single digital platform. This move reflects Dubai's ongoing efforts to advance its tourism ecosystem, enhance the visitor experience, and strengthen the city's global appeal, supporting the growth of the tourism sector in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.