In line with the ambitious targets outlined in Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai plays a critical role in driving the emirate’s economic development. Aiming to double the size of Dubai’s economy and position it among the top three urban economies in the world, this agency is focusing on an integrated approach to identity, residency, and port management. By embracing a comprehensive digital transformation, GDRFA Dubai enhances the emirate’s competitiveness and fosters sustainable growth.

Significance of the Aviation Sector

Recent projections indicate that by 2030, the aviation industry will contribute nearly 45% to Dubai’s GDP. This highlights the importance of managing ports and travel services, crucial to supporting economic activity and attracting both investments and business operations. The strategic focus on these sectors underscores their relevance in sustaining trade flows and boosting Dubai’s position in the global market.

Impact of Digital Transformation

In 2025, performance indicators for the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs illustrated a significant enhancement in economic support through its digital platform. The agency completed over 70 million transactions aided by cutting-edge digital technologies and artificial intelligence, which contributed to enhanced operational efficiency. These advancements align perfectly with the D33 agenda, promoting a highly productive digital economy.

In its efforts to position Dubai as a global business hub, GDRFA reported more than 500 million government integrations and nearly a million partnerships with the private sector. This extensive network illustrates its role as a central facilitator connecting various governmental and economic entities, thereby promoting an improved business climate and enriching customer experiences. This is instrumental in making Dubai an attractive destination for global investments and partnerships.

Data-Driven Growth and Service Efficiency

The sophisticated digital infrastructure at GDRFA has enabled the processing of vast amounts of data—over 195 million gigabytes—while maintaining excellent operational readiness. This reliable, high-performance environment is crucial for accommodating rapidly growing demands without sacrificing quality. The commitment to a data-driven economy supports the D33 vision and reinforces Dubai’s position in the global arena.

Moreover, the agency has streamlined service delivery processes. By redesigning service pathways and reducing requirements, it has significantly improved transaction efficiency. This initiative not only accelerates the customer journey but also enhances the overall quality of life in Dubai, fueling business competitiveness.

Commitment to Sustainability and Future Readiness

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, emphasized that the agency’s efforts extend beyond traditional service delivery. The aim is to create an ecosystem that facilitates economic growth while supporting sustainability. The agency’s digital transformation initiatives have resulted in the reduction of over 88 million paper documents each year, significantly cutting carbon emissions by more than 620,000 tonnes. This commitment reflects a balanced approach to economic and environmental considerations.

Furthermore, GDRFA is dedicated to maintaining high levels of institutional readiness. Its compliance with business continuity plans and successful execution of simulated scenarios demonstrates the agency’s capability to adapt to economic changes efficiently. This proactive, data-driven approach enhances Dubai’s global competitiveness while ensuring exceptional service quality and operational efficiency.

In summary, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai is pivotal in shaping the emirate’s economic landscape. Its efforts in digital transformation, sustainability, and streamlined operations reinforce its commitment to the comprehensive economic agenda of Dubai and support the UAE’s vision for an innovative and efficient economy.