Dubai opens world's largest visa centre with capacity for 10,000 applications per day
New AI-powered centre includes 200+ counters, premium lounges, and an innovation hub
DUBAI has unveiled the world’s largest visa application facility, marking a global milestone in mobility services and government efficiency.
Inaugurated by senior UAE officials and the leadership of VFS Global, the centre is located in Wafi City and spans nearly 150,000 square feet. With the capacity to handle up to 10,000 visa applications per day, the flagship centre redefines international benchmarks in service quality, security, and technological innovation.
Designed to address the UAE’s growing outbound travel market, the centre is set to serve 37 client governments through over 200 submission counters. A state-of-the-art operation with AI integration and ESG-compliant infrastructure, the new facility positions Dubai as a global leader in smart visa services, while aligning with the city’s broader strategic goals under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
World’s largest visa centre
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, described the centre as a “strategic achievement” that advances Dubai’s vision to enhance global mobility, attract talent, and boost international partnerships. He emphasised that seamless visa facilitation is a vital lever for positioning Dubai as the most connected and future-ready city in the world.
Echoing this sentiment, Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, called the new facility a “milestone in the journey of excellence.” He highlighted its role in reinforcing the UAE’s status as a hub for high-quality, efficient smart services, in line with the nation’s leadership directives.
Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global Group, noted the company’s deep-rooted relationship with the UAE since 2004 and celebrated the opening as a significant leap forward in global visa processing. He described the centre as a “reflection of the UAE’s multicultural fabric,” with Emirati artists and entrepreneurs contributing to its development.
Key features
Equipped to serve applicants from over 200 nationalities, the centre brings together modern design and cutting-edge technology to streamline every stage of the visa application process. Key features include:
- More than 400 trained staff from over 25 nationalities
- Self-service kiosks, photo booths, secure lockers, and photocopy stations
- Airport-style navigation with touchscreen info kiosks and clear signage
- QR code-based check-ins and real-time feedback options
- Dedicated prayer rooms, kids’ play areas, and buggy transport for mobility ease
The facility also prioritises inclusivity and comfort, with fast-track lanes for the elderly, families, and individuals with disabilities. In addition, 79 of the 200+ submission counters are Premium Lounges, offering enhanced privacy and convenience. Dubai’s new centre is one of only two locations in the UAE offering the exclusive Platinum Lounge service, complete with chauffeur-driven transport and end-to-end visa support in a serene setting.
AI Innovation Hub
At the heart of the facility lies an AI Innovation Hub that brings automation and precision to every application. From real-time document validation to advanced biometrics, the hub ensures secure, swift processing for all nationalities.
A dedicated Digitisation Centre converts physical documents into secure digital formats, while a Global Resilience Centre (GRC) ensures uninterrupted 24/7 operations and robust data protection for partner governments.
Applicants benefit from a guided, tech-enabled experience. Check-in is facilitated through QR code-based e-tokens, while an advanced queue management system keeps traffic flowing efficiently with mobile updates and digital signage to reduce waiting times.
This seamless integration of human expertise and machine intelligence positions the Dubai centre as a model for visa services worldwide. It not only delivers faster results but also introduces a new standard in transparency and user experience.
Dubai’s culture and sustainability
The centre also reflects Dubai’s cultural ethos. Emirati artists and entrepreneurs played a central role in shaping the facility’s aesthetic and service philosophy, ensuring that the space mirrors the UAE’s diversity and community spirit. Aligned with the UAE’s Year of Community 2025, the centre integrates cultural installations and values that honour local identity.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the centre incorporates energy-efficient systems, aligning with global Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards. Every design element serves a dual purpose: functionality and responsibility – ensuring minimal environmental impact while maximising operational excellence.
VFS Global’s commitment to the UAE is longstanding. Since 2002, it has served as the official visa partner for Emirates Airlines passengers. The company has maintained its global headquarters in Dubai since 2013, further embedding itself into the region’s innovation-driven ecosystem.