Dubai Launches 'A Dubai Invite' Resident Tourist Scheme

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism has unveiled the A Dubai Invite scheme, incentivizing residents to nominate friends and family for tourism visits between July 20 and October 31, 2026. This initiative allows UAE residents and citizens aged 18 and above, holding a valid Emirates ID, to nominate up to five individuals at a time. Participants can secure various rewards, including hotel stays, dining discounts, and exclusive experiences at major local attractions, with successful nominees standing a chance to win significant cash prizes valued at over 3,000 dirhams.

The program aims to boost visitor numbers during the specified period by leveraging the personal networks of Dubai’s resident population. By turning residents into hosts, the government hopes to create a more personalized travel experience while filling capacity at hospitality and entertainment venues. This move is part of a broader strategy to maintain steady tourist inflows and diversify visitor demographics by encouraging long-term residents to take an active role in the city's growth and international appeal.

Following the submission and verification of nominations, guests arriving on valid tourist visas or those eligible for visas on arrival will receive electronic benefit packages in August. These benefits will remain valid through December 31, 2026. This initiative is expected to enhance household spending and visitor engagement across the tourism sector. Analysts expect the scheme to provide a noticeable lift to the hospitality industry, as it encourages longer stays and higher spending through resident-recommended travel paths, effectively turning individual connections into a powerful marketing tool for the city.