According to the new rules, visitors who apply for visit visas for their relatives must now pay a security deposit of 5,000 dirhams ($1,366) instead of the previous amount of 2,000 dirhams ($546). The money will be returned upon the guest's departure; otherwise — if the visa holder wishes to stay or tries to find work — the deposit will remain with the state.
Despite the fact that the new rules have caused a wave of indignation, since for many the amount of the deposit is quite substantial, and next month many guests are expected to arrive for the Dubai festival, the authorities believe that these measures will help bring under control the problem of numerous visitors — job seekers and illegal immigrants.