Fast Passport Solutions for UAE Travelers

Lost Passport Abroad? UAE Golden Visa Holders Get a New Document in 30 Minutes

As the winter travel season approaches, more residents of the United Arab Emirates are preparing to travel abroad for leisure or to visit family. During this time, not only should attention be paid to flight tickets and accommodations, but also to the validity and safety of official documents, especially passports. In this regard, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has issued an important warning and announced several new measures aimed at ensuring everyone can travel safely—even if an unexpected situation, such as a passport loss or damage, occurs.

Passport Validity and Precautionary Advice

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reminded travelers that their passports should be valid for at least six months before departure, and that accompanying individuals should have the visas required by the destination country. Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted the importance of international travel insurance, providing coverage for the entire stay abroad.

It is advisable to store digital copies of documents while keeping originals in a safe place, such as a lockable safe at the accommodation. The Ministry also advises booking flights, accommodations, or car rentals only through reliable global travel platforms.

Rapid Assistance in Emergencies

One of the most remarkable innovations available to UAE Golden Visa holders is the “Return Document” service, which allows them to receive a temporary return document within 30 minutes if their passport is lost, damaged, or expired. This service is offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security.

The service is also accessible via a 24/7 hotline at 0097124931133, through which immediate assistance can be requested in emergencies, evacuations, or other critical situations. The system covers repatriation and, in unfortunate cases, facilitates funeral arrangements for UAE Golden Visa holders who pass away abroad, including support for family members.

Digital Preparation Before Traveling

The MoFA also encourages all UAE citizens and residents to check the current entry rules of their destination country via the ministry’s official website or mobile app before departure. On this interactive platform, travel advisories are updated in real time by country, which include health regulations, visa requirements, and other rules.

An important tool is the UAE Traveler Services Card, equipped with a QR code and obtainable at UAE airports upon departure. This card provides quick access to services such as issuing temporary passports for newborns or in case of document loss, as well as browsing updated country lists and accessing targeted travel advice.

Launching a Conscious Travel Campaign

The new awareness and information initiative launched under the “From the UAE, We Travel” campaign aims to foster a conscious and safe travel culture. This initiative is particularly timely, as the winter break in the United Arab Emirates starts on December 8 and runs until January 4—meaning nearly a full month during which hundreds of thousands of travelers may set out on journeys.

The Ministry also recommends that travelers register themselves and their family members in the Twajudi system, accessible via the website, mobile app, or WhatsApp. This registration enables travelers to receive faster and more efficient assistance in case of emergencies.

Airport Recommendations and Precautions

Dubai's national airline, Emirates, has also issued a warning due to the expected high passenger traffic on weekends in December. Passengers are asked to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their flight and to use the Dubai Metro service to avoid possible road congestion.

For travelers to the United States, check-in counters open 12 hours before departure, so it is advisable to complete the administration as early as possible.

Closing Thoughts

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates has exemplary measures and services in place that support not only its citizens but also UAE Golden Visa holders in their travels. The quick processing, document replacement within 30 minutes, interactive information systems, and continuous support indicate the country's commitment to ensuring a safe and smooth travel experience.

Those embarking from the UAE during the winter season can now rely on an even more comprehensive, digitally supported system—which not only prevents but also effectively manages unexpected situations. And that's particularly reassuring if one finds themselves far from home with a lost passport in hand.

(Source of the article: Press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, United Arab Emirates (MoFA).)