Dubai Sets New Family Sponsorship Rules for Residents

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD) in Dubai has announced the requirements for foreign residents wishing to sponsor family members for residence permits in 2026. Both male and female foreign residents can sponsor a spouse, children under 25, and unmarried daughters.

Notably, children with special needs can be included in the application regardless of age. Sponsored family members must reside at the same address as the sponsor for the duration of the residency agreement.

Applicants must provide a recent color photograph with a white background of the person being sponsored, a copy of the sponsored person's passport, and an examination report approved by relevant authorities for those over 18 years of age. The announcement includes further details on the application process and the offices responsible for handling such requests.