The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has implemented a system of alerts and warnings for citizens who are planning to travel abroad. This system is accessible through an interactive map on the Emirati Traveler page of the ministry's website and smart application. It provides detailed information about the entry procedures and instructions for each country, enabling Emirati travelers to be well-informed about the requirements prior to their departure.
The country's digital government has reported that the interactive map offers convenient access to up-to-date travel procedures for different countries worldwide, along with relevant requirements, alerts, and warnings about the desired destination. Additionally, it provides Emirati travelers with information of interest before their trip, such as visa exemptions, details about the mission in the destination country, and the use of Emirati driving licenses abroad. This initiative is known as "Markhoos".
A significant number of individuals are getting ready to journey to different international locations as the school holiday commences and the summer season begins. Meanwhile, the Ministry is prioritizing the protection of the nation's people in their respective destinations and ensuring their secure return to the Emirates.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised citizens of the country who intend to travel to register for the "My Presence" service. This can be done through the Ministry's website or the smart application (UAE MOFA), which is available for download on the "Android" and "iOS" platforms. This service facilitates communication between the Ministry and the country's missions abroad. Providing support and facilitating the return of individuals to the Emirates during emergencies, crises, and travel abroad.
The services provided for Emirati travelers include the issuance of a return document through the Ministry's website or smart application. This service is available for citizens of the country who are abroad and need a new document due to the loss, expiration, or damage of their regular passport, or for newborns.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established a dedicated hotline to promptly address emergency reports from UAE individuals who encounter any unforeseen circumstances while overseas. The service's objective is to offer continuous support and aid to inhabitants of the UAE. inhabitants have the option to submit a report by dialing 0097180024.
She emphasized that every report is handled using a response system that is specifically designed to offer assistance. This system operates under the supervision of the Citizens Affairs Department, following the highest standards. It also coordinates with the state's representative missions abroad and the relevant ministry departments, which are represented by the call center and the operations center.
The digital government report highlighted the services offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, such as the "Doctor for Every Citizen" service. This service, in collaboration with the Dubai Health Authority, allows Emirati travelers to contact the Ministry to report any injuries, health ailments, or seek medical advice. The Ministry's team transfers the case to a specialist doctor from the Health Authority for further monitoring. This is done through direct visual connection between the citizen and the doctor.
The report highlighted the "Smart Mission" project, emphasizing its role in facilitating clients' access to proactive and varied consular services through the use of facial recognition technology. It also enables direct engagement with clients and the delivery of essential services without the requirement of human involvement, relying on three-way technology. The system has dimensions and "holograms" that allow for the provision of a virtual employee, enabling direct interaction when required.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasized the importance of providing citizens with guidance and instructions for traveling abroad through the "My presence" service. It is crucial for travelers to follow these guidelines in order to ensure a safe journey. One of the most significant recommendations is to keep an electronic copy of official documents and a copy of the passport on their mobile phones. This will serve as a reference in case of emergencies or when needed. During emergency situations, it is advisable to securely store the official documents of the traveler and their family members while they are traveling.
In addition, she emphasized the significance of obtaining an international driving license for travelers who intend to drive in the countries they will be visiting. It is also crucial to select a place of residence that complies with security and safety standards. Prior to traveling, it is essential to familiarize oneself with the destination, including its political, cultural, and economic landscape, in order to have a comprehensive understanding of the intended location.
It further urged citizens to exercise caution by making their travel, hotel, and transportation arrangements through authorized and trustworthy tourism agencies. Additionally, it advised against carrying substantial sums of money when traveling and recommended using a credit card as a substitute.