Brits living in the United Arab Emirates can now earn benefits worth over AED3,000 (£610) by inviting friends and family to visit Dubai through the 'Dubai Invite' programme, launched by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) on July 21. The scheme runs until October 31 and aims to counter the drop in tourism following the Iran-US war.
How the Scheme Works
Residents of Dubai can nominate visitors from nearly 200 nationalities. Eligible visitors must be non-UAE residents arriving on a valid tourist visa. Each resident can submit as many nominations as they like and receive up to three benefit packages, each including over 20 perks such as savings on hotel stays, dining, and attraction tickets.
A message on the Visit Dubai website said: "Invite your loved ones to experience Dubai between 20 July and 31 October, and in return receive benefits worth over AED3,000. You can submit as many nominations as you like and receive up to three benefit packages – each including over 20 perks like savings on hotel stays, dining experiences, attraction tickets and more. Benefit packages will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis and subject to availability."
Benefits and Eligibility
The DET official website added: "As some of the city’s strongest advocates, consistently welcoming their loved ones to enjoy the destination, the benefits programme enables residents to also make the most of Dubai’s diverse offerings."
Among the perks are discounts of up to 45% on stays and 100% room rate equivalent resort credits at participating hotels, including W Dubai Mina Seyahi, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, Melia Desert Palm, and ME Dubai by Melia, as well as properties across the IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio.
Impact of Iran-US War
According to media outlet Middle East Eye, "Dubai is facing an existential crisis" after the outbreak of the Iran-US war in February, with visitor numbers falling sharply and deeply affecting the hospitality sector.
