A recent viral circular circulating on WhatsApp has sparked confusion and concern among travellers regarding the entry regulations for individuals holding visas issued from Dubai when entering the UAE from other emirates. However, travel agents and authorities have come forward to debunk these claims, reassuring passengers and urging them to rely on verified sources for accurate information.
Clarifying Misinformation: Travel Agents Speak Out
The circular suggests that passengers with visas issued from Dubai would face deportation if they attempted to enter the UAE from Abu Dhabi or Sharjah. However, travel agents in the UAE have expressed skepticism regarding the accuracy of this information, emphasizing that visa holders should be able to enter any airport in the country without facing such consequences.
Bharath Aidasani, Managing Partner at Pluto Travels, highlighted the lack of official announcements regarding these purported restrictions, indicating that the claims circulating on social media are unsubstantiated. Firoz Maliyakkal, Founder and CEO of Tahira Tours and Travels, echoed similar sentiments, stating that there is no concrete evidence to support the deportation claims mentioned in the circular.
Contrary to the circulating rumors, passengers like Indian tourist Akram Ahmed have reported seamless entry processes despite holding Dubai-issued visas. Ahmed entered the UAE through Sharjah International Airport without encountering any issues, emphasizing that the arrival process was smooth and trouble-free. He also mentioned receiving assurance from his travel agent that the deportation claims were unfounded.
Authorities Respond: Seeking Clarification
In response to the concerns raised by travellers and travel agents, authorities in the UAE have been actively investigating the matter to provide clarity on the situation. Libin Varghese from Rooh Travel and Tourism assured the public that they are working to validate the deportation claims mentioned in the circular but have found no concrete evidence to support them.
Furthermore, a customer care agent at the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security confirmed that passengers with Dubai-issued visas can enter the country through any UAE airport, debunking the misinformation spread by the viral circular.
Staying Informed: Emphasizing Reliable Sources
As the confusion persists, passengers are urged to rely on information from verified sources and consult with their respective travel agents for the most up-to-date and reliable information. Firoz reiterated the importance of staying informed through official channels to avoid misinformation and ensure a smooth travel experience.
In conclusion, while the viral WhatsApp circular has caused concern among travellers, authorities and travel agents have stepped forward to debunk the deportation claims, emphasizing the importance of relying on verified sources for accurate information when making travel decisions.
Charles Irvin is a distinguished author known for his insightful contributions to Dubai Magazine. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Charles captures the essence of Dubai's vibrant culture, business landscape, and innovative spirit.
