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New UAE visas: Five-year Green Visa and Jobseeker Visa will come into effect from October 3

Living in uae.

Green Visa applies to skilled worker, self-employed and investor

Dubai: An updated visa system will come into effect in the UAE from Monday, October 3, 2022, allowing several options to visitors and residents to apply for visas without the need for a UAE-based sponsor.

The changes were announced by the Federal Authority for Identity Citizenship Customs and Ports Security (ICP) at a press conference on September 5, with details of new visa categories available to expatriates, as well as additional benefits for exisiting UAE residents.

The system was designed to offer greater flexibility and independence to the individual in the UAE labour market.

What is the updated visa system?

During the press conference by the ICP, Major General Sultan Yousef Al Nuaimi, Director General of Residency and Foreigners Affairs at the authority, explained that the new regulation includes an updated visa system that contributes to supporting the sustainable development process and the policy of economic diversification in the UAE, by attracting skilled workers, scientific competencies, experienced people, creative people and skilled specialists, which leads to raising the level of productivity and enhancing the competitiveness of the nation’s economy.

Al Nuaimi added: “The updated visa system is characterised by the multiplicity of types of residency and the addition of new ones to suit all categories of investors, entrepreneurs, talented scientists and specialists, early students, graduates, pioneers of humanitarian work, the first line of defense and skilled Labour in all fields, in addition to alleviating burdens and simplifying procedures, adding new benefits for residency holders and separating residency from the employer, which contributes to improving the quality of life and making the experience of living, working and investing in the UAE a pleasant and happy one.”

The updated visa system now includes the Green Visa, Jobseeker Visa, and additional benefits for Golden Visa holders .

Five-year Green Visa

Major General Khamis Al Kaabi, Director General of Support Services at the ICP, said: "The new executive regulation for the entry and residence of foreigners, which will come into force on October 3, includes an integrated system of residency with great advantages and facilities, most notably the Green visa, which is granted for a period of five years, subject to renewal, and includes greater advantages for family members of residents, including flexible grace periods of up to six months after expiry or cancellation of residence.”

The three categories of Green Visa are:

• the green residency for the skilled worker;

• the green residency for self-employment;

• the green residency for the investor or partner in a commercial activity without a guarantor and for a period of 5 years, subject to renewal, to replace the investor's previous residency of two years. With simpler terms and greater benefits, and allowing those holders of green residency to bring in first-degree relatives.

Jobseeker Visa

Another type of visa, which was announced as part of the updated visa system is a visa for job seekers. It allows you to come to the UAE without the need of a sponsor or host to explore work, investment and business opportunities. It is essentially an updated entry permit system.

Al Kaabi added: "A visa has been created to explore job opportunities and another to explore investment and business opportunities to attract investors without a guarantor or host inside the country, according to the conditions set forth in the new executive regulations."

At the press conference ICP also announced the new UAE passport for Emiratis. The new generation document is printed using laser and polycarbonate material, not paper, which makes it difficult to damage, tear or forge, and provides faster printing and greater security.

Major General Suhail Jumaa Al Khaili, Director General of Identity and Passports at the authority, pointed out that by issuing the new Emirati passport, the ICP will move towards a decentralised service. The new passport will now be printed in seven centres nationwide, an increase from the previous two centres, leading to a faster and easier service.

The article was first published on September 5, 2022.

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The UAE grants multiple-entry or single-entry visas that allow people to visit the country for a specific purpose. The purpose of the visit visa includes tourism, vising a relative, attending to a mission, exploring business or job opportunities, getting medical treatment, studying and training, and for transiting through the UAE.

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UAE hopes to attract skilled professionals with new visa rules

The new schemes have been described by local media as the biggest shake-up in the country’s immigration policy in years.

The United Arab Emirates has rolled out new visa rules, with the objective of attracting more skilled professionals to the country, as it seeks to bounce back from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and generate economic growth.

The visa rules are aimed at “improving the quality of life and making the experience of living, working and investing in the UAE a pleasant and happy one,” local outlet Gulf News reported Major General Sultan Yusef al-Nuaimi, the director general of residency and foreigners affairs, as saying.

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The schemes were rolled out on Monday, and have been described by local media as the biggest shake-up in the country’s immigration and residency policy in years.

Included among the changes are longer 60-day tourist visas allowing long-term residency for professional workers and easier access to the UAE’s 10-year Golden Visa scheme.

The latter refers to visas that are offered to gifted students, exceptionally skilled foreign workers, and people with public investments of at least 10 million dirhams (about $2.7m) who can live in the country without the need for a national sponsor, subject to renewal every 10 years. Additionally, the recipients, who can either apply online or be nominated by Emirati government bodies, can own 100 percent of their businesses located on the mainland.

Under the new rules, parents are now allowed to sponsor their children until they are 25 years old, up from the previous age of 18.

A five-year, flexible multi-entry tourist visa was also introduced that allows travellers to stay in the UAE for up to 90 days in a row.

Furthermore, the job exploration visa, which allows professionals to find employment within the country, does not require an Emirati sponsor or host.

Candidates for the Green Visa – which include freelancers, self-employed people, skilled workers and investors – can now sponsor themselves without having to rely on a UAE national or employer to do so. They can also sponsor first-degree relatives for the duration of their residency, and are allowed a grace period of up to six months if their residence permit is cancelled or expires.

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UAE's new visa rules to come into effect in September

Ten types of visas and 60-day stay for visitors to be available.

The UAE is offering new types of visa, including options for long-stay tourists, jobseekers, accomplished professionals, star students and high-net-worth individuals. Wam

Related: 60-day entry now standard for many visitors

The UAE Cabinet has approved one of the biggest overhauls of the visa residency system in years.

The new model, in some cases, ends the need for arrivals to acquire sponsorship.

People who enter as visitors will be able to stay for 60 days , rather than 30 days at present. The changes will come into effect by September.

Parents can sponsor their male children until the age of 25, up from 18, allowing them to remain in the UAE after school and university. This was first set out in September 2021.

The Golden Visa system will also be expanded, while new entry visas to make it easier for jobseekers, particularly graduates, to visit the country will be available.

Skilled professionals on salaries of Dh30,000 ($8,100) a month or more will find it easier to gain an Golden Visa .

The UAE Government Media Office announced the changes, approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid , Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday.

The announcement is the formal ratification by the Cabinet of a series of recent visa changes, plus new details and decisions, which are known as executive regulations.

“The new system of entry and residence is aimed at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers,” a media office statement said.

More flexible visas will boost “competitiveness and flexibility of the job market and foster high sense of stability among UAE residents and families".

Business Extra podcast: What are the UAE's new visa rules?

New benefits for family members

The new system provides more benefits for family members.

A parent can now sponsor a male child to the age of 25 years, up from 18. A parent can sponsor an unmarried daughter indefinitely.

The new Entry and Residence Scheme offers 10 types of entry visas with simplified requirements and more benefits. New visas require no host or sponsor, offer more flexibility, multi entry, 60 days validity and one unified platform to apply at pic.twitter.com/0PsCJYaoyR — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) April 18, 2022

Children with disabilities are granted a residence permit permanently, regardless of their age.

The Green visa residence holder is allowed to bring any first-degree relative into the country and, in all cases, the residency of family members shall be of the same duration as the original residence holder.

Job exploration entry visa

This visa is introduced with the aim of attracting young talents and skilled professionals to explore job opportunities. It does not require a sponsor or a host.

It is granted to those classified in the first or second or third skill level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and to the latest graduates of the best 500 universities in the world. The minimum educational level should be a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.

Multi-entry tourist visa

In addition to the regular tourist visa, a five-year, multi-entry tourist visa was introduced.

This type does not require a sponsor and it allows the person to stay in the country up to 90 days in a row. It may be extended for a similar period, provided that the entire period of stay does not exceed 180 days in one year.

This visa requires proof of having a bank balance of $4,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies during the last six months before submitting the application.

Golden visa for sponsoring family and domestic workers

Amendments are introduced to the Golden Residence Scheme to simplify the eligibility criteria and expand the categories of beneficiaries.

This 10-year residence is granted to investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists and professionals, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes.

A Golden Residence holder can sponsor his/her family members including spouse and children regardless of their age, and to sponsor domestic workers without limiting their number. There is no restriction related to the maximum duration of stay outside the UAE in order to keep the Golden Residence valid.

There are other benefits for family members that allow them to stay in the UAE in the event of the death of the original holder of the Golden Residence until the end of their permit duration.

Golden visa for scientists

This is granted to scientists and researchers of high calibre and influence in their field based on recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council.

The candidate should have a PhD or master's degree in the disciplines of engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from leading universities. The candidate should have substantial research achievements.

Golden visa for skilled professionals

An expansion is introduced in this category to attract highly skilled workers with educational qualifications and professional experience in all disciplines including medicine, sciences and engineering, information technology, business and administration, education, law, culture and social sciences.

Applicants should have a valid employment contract in the UAE and should be classified in the first or second occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation classification.

The minimum educational level must be a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and the monthly salary should not be less than Dh30,000.

Golden visa for 'exceptional talents'

This is granted to top talents in vital fields. It is awarded based on talent only, regardless of the educational qualification or the employment status or the monthly salary or professional level.

It requires the recommendation or approval of a federal or local government entity, and includes talented individuals in culture, art, sports, digital technology, inventors and innovators and other vital fields.

Golden visa for real estate investors

Real estate investors can obtain Golden Residence when purchasing a property worth no less than Dh2 million ($540,000).

As per the new amendments, investors are also entitled to obtain the Golden Residence when purchasing a property with a loan from specific local banks. Investors can also obtain Golden Residence when buying one or more off-plan properties of no less than Dh2m from approved local real estate companies.

Golden Residence for Entrepreneurs

To be eligible for Golden Residence, an entrepreneur should own or be a partner in a start-up registered in the country in the category of small and medium enterprises (SME) that generates annual revenue of not less than Dh1m.

If the person is one of the founders of an earlier entrepreneurial project that was sold with a total value of not less than Dh7m, he or she will be entitled to Golden Residence. The approval of the Ministry of Economy or the competent local authorities is required for projects or ideas.

Golden visa for outstanding students and graduates

This residence targets high performing students in UAE secondary schools and outstanding graduates from UAE universities and the best 100 universities worldwide according to criteria that includes their academic performance, the year of graduation, and the university classification.

Green visa for skilled employees and freelancers

A new track that provides a five-year residency for skilled employees, without sponsor or employer.

The minimum educational level must be a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and the salary should not be less than Dh15,000.

Green visa for investor or partner

This residence is introduced to encourage investment. It provides five-year residency for investors establishing or participating in commercial activities. It replaces the previous residence that was valid for two years.

Requirements including approval of the investment and proof of investment. If the investor has more than one licence, the total invested capital will be calculated.

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UAE rolls out new visa scheme; rules, guidelines laid out for unified tourist, medical and educational entry permits

The new system also covers procedures and requirements in cases where passports or id cards are lost or damaged, whether the holder is inside or outside the country.

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Published: Mon 3 Oct 2022, 8:54 PM

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has approved the rules and procedures of the New Visa Scheme for the United Arab Emirates, coinciding with the official launch of the system on Monday, October 3, 2022.

This step is an implementation of Cabinet Resolution No. 65 concerning the executive regulation of the Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 concerning the entry and residence of foreigners.

The ICP has documented the conditions and rules implementing the decision, as well as the work guidelines of the unified system for tourist, medical and educational entry visas. The ICP also confirmed that the mechanisms for prescribing rules and requirements aim to maximise the level of strategic balance when making decisions and crystalise government visions and directions according to a joint work methodology. This was carried out in coordination with ICP’s partners to further enhance individual and societal security, safety, and stability.

In his speech on this occasion, Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, ICP Director-General, said that the new visa system aligns with both the Principles of the 50 and the objectives UAE 2071 Centennial. It also promotes the values of coexistence, tolerance and human fraternity, and keeps pace with the various changes and developments seen across economic, political and social landscapes, both locally and internationally, he added.

Al Khaili stressed that the system establishes an outline of the country’s visa structure for work, tourism, medical treatment and education, further advancing its standing, and enhancing its regional and global competitiveness.

Al Khaili added that the conditions and rules that the ICP approved were developed based on extensive studies of government trends, aimed at preventing any security breaches and ensuring the safety of society members, and protecting the UAE’s cohesive society, and its status as an attractive hub for business and tourism, a champion of knowledge, and a leader in sustainable development and future planning.

He also pointed out that the newly developed visas will drive development in the UAE by attracting entrepreneurs, talents, professionals and exceptional graduates and students, and enhancing its status as a conducive environment for work and living.

Moreover, Major General Al Khaili said that the conditions and rules for visas were prepared based on the review and evaluation of the competent authorities, such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and other federal and local entities, to ensure that the new visa system achieves its objectives.

For his part, Major General Sultan Yusuf Abdul Rahman Al Nuaimi, Director-General of Residency and Foreigners Affairs at the ICP, said that the approval of the conditions and rules are clear and cover all visas across various types and durations. This includes more than 15 types of visas, such as tourist entry visas, golden and green residencies, and entry permits for truck drivers through land ports, those covering neighbouring countries, for workers on cruise ships and such, entry permits to visit friends or relatives, among others.

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The new criteria and rules include the conditions for visas to explore opportunities to start a business, as well as for holders of specific international residence visas and for humanitarian cases, Al Nuaimi said.

The new system also covers procedures and requirements in cases where passports or ID cards are lost or damaged, whether the holder is inside or outside the country.

Al Nuaimi explained that the ICP has approved the guidebook on the unified system for tourist, medical and student visas, defining the responsibilities, powers, procedures, criteria and conditions for the issuance of each type of entry visa, as well as applicable administrative and financial fines.

Major General Sultan Al Nuaimi urged all those who wish to know the rules or conditions related to the new visa scheme to contact with customer service at 60052222222, or submit requests through the ICP’s website www.ICP.GOV.AE and the UAEICP smart app, or through the typing centres in the country.

He also called on the public to stay updated on related decisions, regulations and activities through the ICP's official platforms and social media accounts.

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13 reasons to visit dubai’s madinat jumeirah.

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Explore Madinat Jumeirah’s 100 acres.

Dubai ’s skyline seems like a fierce competition with each new building more daring and futuristic than the one before. But Madinat Jumeirah shows sometimes the best way to win is to go in a different direction altogether. The resort draws from the past to create an ancient Arabian village with sand-hued, low-rise structures and traditional design.

That’s not to say that Madinat Jumeirah doesn’t go bold — this is Dubai, after all. Set against the iconic backdrop of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, the property sprawls across nearly 100 waterfront acres with four hotels, 19 shimmering pools and a dizzying array of 50 restaurants and bars.

It’s undisputedly opulent. When you pull up to Jumeirah Al Qasr , you’ll encounter a herd of golden Arabian horse sculptures frolicking on the grass. The hotel itself (Al Qasr is Arabic for “the palace”) was modeled after a sheikh’s residence.

Here are 13 reasons to visit Madinat Jumeirah:

Hit the beach.

Unwind on Madinat Jumeirah’s more than a mile-long private stretch of sand and indulge in the resort’s beachside amenities, from plush cabanas to camels plodding along the shore and offering rides. Lapping with turquoise waters, it’s one of Dubai’s most pristine natural beaches (meaning it’s not artificial, like a number of others in the city).

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The accommodations offer a sense of place.

Jumeirah Al Qasr

The exterior resembles a palace, and the interiors are just as palatial. Marvel at the lobby’s Azul Bahia granite floors and columns, sparkling Swarovski chandeliers and a central staircase that wraps around the mesmerizing tiered Moroccan fountain.

The accommodations also have Arabesque flair. The ceiling features cutouts of the Islamic eight-pointed star, scalloped edges adorn arched entryways and metal Moroccan lamps hang over the bedside tables, casting a warm glow throughout the room. You’ll likely find dates, a favorite Middle Eastern treat, as a welcome amenity.

Take a ride through the canals.

The Abra Rides

The most scenic way to see Madinat Jumeirah is on an abra , a traditional Emirati wooden boat. Board the electric abra for a serene ride through the canals that meander the grounds so you can take in the sand-colored buildings and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab looming close by.

Those seeking a more intimate, even indulgent experience can charter a private abra with a personalized tour of the property and the opportunity to savor an afternoon tea while gently cruising along the canals.

Cool off at the spa.

Talise Spa Madinat Jumeirah

Take the abra to this Four-Star haven for a soothing start to a day of pampering. As you arrive at the spa, you’ll be greeted by the melodic sound of trickling fountains, with verdant gardens and wooden bridges further setting the scene.

The spa recently revamped its offerings, emerging with a holistic wellness approach. The spa’s expert staff tailors multi-day programs around the pillars of restore, internal well-being, mindful movement and mental wellness. Of course, it provides à la carte services as well — it’s the most comprehensive wellness program among UAE spas.

Seek refuge in one of the 26 spa villas and try lymphatic flow therapy. Listed under the “restore” pillar, it’s said to ease inflammation. Or relax in the Gharieni Satori Wellness Lounger , a touchless vibroacoustic experience. The calming session helps alleviate stress and anxiety and promotes deep, restful sleep. Talise is the only spa in Dubai that offers it.

L’Olivo at Al Mahara

While L’Olivo resides in the Five-Star Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, it’s only a golf cart ride away from Madinat Jumeirah. Not to mention, the food is so good that it’s worth seeking out. At this outpost of chef Andrea Migliaccio’s Capri favorite, don’t miss his famous lemon tagliolini, topped with red prawns and burrata. When a cart wheels over doling three types of bread and an array of flavored Italian olive oils, be sure to take a helping. And add on dinner wine pairings, which take you on a tour of Italy, from the Alto Adige region to Sicily.

During the meal, you’ll notice the vast aquarium in the middle of the Dubai restaurant vying for your attention. Casting a blue glow over the tables, the ambiance makes you feel like you’re dining beneath the sea, with sweetlips, stingrays and even small blacktip sharks traversing the water. Look for Georgina — the humphead wrasse is the largest resident fish.

See rescued turtles at the onsite sanctuary.

The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project

Founded in 2004, this nonprofit is the Middle East’s first turtle rehabilitation project. First, wounded tortoises go to Burj Al Arab’s Aquarium (it’s closed to the public) to be nursed back to health. Next, the reptiles get transported to DTRP’s Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary, where you can see them in a series of lagoon pools at Jumeirah Al Naseem. Visit to meet turtles like Humpty and Dumpty, who became permanent lagoon residents because their misshapen shells make it challenging to swim (experts believe boats struck them). When other turtles are fully healed, they return to the ocean. The organization has rescued and released more than 2,100 turtles, mostly the hawksbill, green and loggerhead varieties.

The endangered species face numerous threats, including plastic ingestion, entanglement in garbage, habitat destruction, boat accidents and the tortoise shell trade. DTRP releases turtles twice a year, including June 16, World Sea Turtle Day.

Dine at the beach.

French Riviera

At Jumeirah Al Qasr, make it a point to visit French Riviera. It serves delicious French fare all day long, but come in the morning to dine at the restaurant’s beachside pergola. The sun will be less intense, and if you get there early enough, you might have the spot all to yourself.

Enjoy front-row vistas of the water and the Burj and order chef Kim Joinié-Maurin’s avocado toast. Avo slices artfully coil around a slice of protein bread like a flower, with pico de gallo in the center. It’s a light, flavorful start to the day.

"1,001 Arabian Nights" was an inspiration for the design.

It makes sense that Madinat Jumeirah looks like an Arabian palace — Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum helped design it, and one of the royal residences is adjacent to the complex.

The sandy buildings, Arabesque flourishes, lush landscaping and winding canals give the whole property an elegant cohesiveness. Madinat Jumeirah also manages to stun in even the smallest of ways. Veer onto a tucked-away path at night, for example, and metal Moroccan lanterns dotted around palm trees guide your path through an oversized archway with scalloped borders.

Bring the kids to Wild Wadi Waterpark.

The Family-Friendly Amenities

In addition to the turtle sanctuary and beach, families will have other activities at their disposal. As guests of Madinat Jumeirah’s hotels, they get complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark near the Burj. The waterpark holds more than 30 rides, ranging from Breaker’s Bay, the Middle East’s largest wave pool, to the heart-pumping 394-foot-tall Jumeirah Sceirah slide that shoots you 50 mph.

The property has two kids clubs. Jumeirah Al Qasr’s club offers nearly 11,000 square feet of immersive play areas and pools. Jumeirah Al Naseem’s club comes with an outdoor playground. Both organize games and arts and crafts, too.

Check out the view at Jumeirah Al Naseem.

The Other Hotels

Three other impressive hotels reside on the grounds. Four-Star Jumeirah Mina A’Salam was the first hotel to open in Madinat Jumeirah in 2004. Sitting at the center of the complex, it offers a family-friendly contemporary Arabian getaway. The newly renovated Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf feels more like a boutique property with villas and summerhouses with eight to 10 guest rooms and a suite around an inviting inner courtyard. The newest of the group, which debuted in 2016, is Jumeirah Al Naseem , a Five-Star escape with a more understated contemporary luxury aesthetic and top-notch service.

Enjoy Greek food on the beach.

When night falls, this alfresco beachfront restaurant at Jumeirah Mina A’Salam is the hot spot. Relax under pergolas woven with white fabric, out on the wooden deck or in the sand with low lights. No matter which you choose, take in views of the illuminated buildings in the city skyline, including the Burj, while dance music pulses in the background.

Shimmers radiates a casual-chic vibe, but its Greek fare isn’t an afterthought. Be sure to order the lobster orzo, a supremely satisfying dish with bisque foam, tarragon, lime and green chilli. Follow it up with the Greek yogurt ice cream drizzled with honey and sprinkled with caramelized walnuts or the Vanilla Sphere, a nut-coated ball of vanilla ice cream stuffed with caramel and roasted hazelnuts (for a little decadence, a small gold leaf rests on top). Both are a refreshing way to wind down the night.

Dubai’s famous Gold Souk tops the itineraries of shoppers visiting the city, but if you want an alternative, you don’t have to stray from the property. The air-conditioned indoor Souk Madinat Jumeirah houses more than 75 shops. There, you can pick up souvenirs like lanterns, chocolate made with camel’s milk, soft Kashmiri blankets and more.

Dine at overwater restaurant Pierchic.

At Jumeirah Al Qasr’s fine-dining Italian restaurant from chef Beatrice Segoni, you’ll savor dishes like branzino with panzanella (a bread and tomato salad) and Australian Angus tenderloin with a parsnip-date chutney. Many people also flock here for the incredible views — the overwater restaurant sits at the end of the Dubai hotel’s long private pier.

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Rajinikanth receives UAE Golden Visa

South Indian superstar Rajinikanth received the UAE's Golden Visa at the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Abu Dhabi. DTC Chairman Moahmed Khalifa Al Mubarak handed it over to the actor, in the presence of Malayali businessman M A Yusuff Ali. As per reports, Yusuff Ali had completed the procedures for the same recently. Rajinikanth said that he is proud to have received the recognition from the UAE government. He also thanked Yusuff Ali, the head of Lulu Group, for handling the procedures of the visa. Rajinikanth, who enjoys fandom across countries, visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - the largest in the country -  during his visit. BAPS Hindu Mandir is the first Hindu temple in the Middle East to be built using traditional Indian techniques. It is also the biggest temple in the GCC region.  Trip with Yusuff Ali viral A video of Rajinikanth being driven around by Yusuff Ali had recently gone viral on social media. As per reports, after reaching the UAE, Rajinikanth visited the global headquarters of Lulu Group International first and he was received by Yusuff Ali. He was taken to Yusuff Ali's residence too, later, where they both spent hours bonding over lunch. 

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