Passport Power: Unlocking Travel History In Uae

The Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) in the United Arab Emirates issues a travel report that includes an individual's travel history, including all records of entry and exit from the country. This report is often required for administrative, legal, or employment-related purposes. It covers entry and exit dates, ports of entry/exit, duration of stay, mode of transport, and personal identification details such as passport number, Emirates ID, and nationality. To obtain this report, individuals can use the ICA's online portal, the DubaiNow mobile app, or visit an Amer Centre in Dubai. The report typically costs between AED 100 and AED 300, depending on urgency and duration. It is important to note that travel bans may also be checked using one's passport number through the Dubai Police website or app, or by contacting the Dubai Police directly.

Check for a travel ban

A travel ban is a legal restriction that prevents an individual from leaving the UAE. This restriction is imposed by the UAE authorities to ensure that individuals with unresolved legal, financial, or immigration issues remain within the country until those matters are settled. It is important to check for a travel ban before planning international travel from the UAE to avoid unexpected complications, such as being detained at the airport or facing legal consequences.

Online through the Dubai Police Website:

• Visit the Dubai Police website.
• Navigate to the "Services" section.
• Select the "Criminal Status of Financial Cases" service.
• Enter your Emirates ID or passport number to check for any travel bans.

Online through the Dubai Public Prosecution Website:

• Access the Dubai Public Prosecution website.
• Go to the "Services" tab.
• Choose the "Inquiry for Criminal Status" service.
• Enter your personal details, including your Emirates ID or passport number, to check if any travel bans are associated with your legal status.

Using the Dubai Police Smart App:

• Download and install the Dubai Police Smart App on your mobile device.
• Register or log in with your credentials.
• Use the "Criminal Status" service to check for any travel bans.

In-Person at Police Stations or Immigration Departments:

• Visit your nearest police station or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) office.
• Present your Emirates ID and passport.
• Request a status check for any travel bans. This method provides a more comprehensive and reliable check but may take longer.

Using the 'Estafser' Service by the Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi:

• Access the Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi's official website.
• Look for the 'Estafser' service under the available online services.
• Enter your unified number, which can be found on your Emirates ID.
• Submit the request to check if you are wanted by the Public Prosecution for any claims against you. Please note that this service is only available for residents of Abu Dhabi.

By using these methods, you can proactively check for any travel bans before planning your trip, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Use the DubaiNow mobile app

The DubaiNow mobile app is a great way to access your travel history. This app is a one-stop shop for all your government interactions, providing access to over 115 government and private sector services from 34 entities.

To use the app, you will need to be a resident of Dubai, with a valid visa. You can then download the app and register, providing your passport number and other personal details.

Once registered, you can request and receive official travel reports from the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs). This report will detail your travel history, including entry and exit dates, ports of entry and exit, duration of stay, mode of transport, and personal identification details. The report is typically used for visa applications and renewals, legal and administrative procedures, and employment and residence permits.

The DubaiNow app also offers a range of other services, including bill payments, managing driving-related tasks, housing services, health services, education services, and more.

Visit the ICA customer happiness centre online

The ICA's Customer Happiness Centres (CHCs) are located across the UAE, offering a range of services, including issuing and renewing passports.

The ICA website has an online locator tool to help you find your nearest centre.

The CHCs are open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday, and 7:30 am to 12:00 pm on Fridays.

When visiting a CHC, you will need to bring the following documents:

• Your original passport
• Original visa (if applicable)
• Proof of residence (such as a utility bill)
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Birth certificate of children (if applicable)
• Death certificate (if applicable)
• Any other documents required for the service you are applying for
• Arrive early to avoid long queues
• Be prepared with all the required documents
• Dress appropriately
• Be polite and respectful to the staff
• Do not bring any prohibited items into the centre
• Follow the staff's instructions

Use the GDRFA Smart Services portal

The GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) offers a range of services through its Smart Services portal. This portal is designed to streamline processes and minimise the need for in-person visits. One of the services offered is the issuance of entry and exit movement statements, which can be useful for visa renewals, legal cases, and other administrative tasks.

To obtain your travel history through the GDRFA Smart Services portal, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log in to the Portal

Visit the GDRFA Smart Services portal at https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae/. Log in using your UAE Pass for a seamless experience. If you are a resident of Dubai, you will need to provide your Emirates ID and passport number.

Step 2: Select 'Request for Travel Report'

Once you are logged in, navigate to the "Request for Travel Report" service. Choose the GDRFA option, which is specific to Dubai, and ensure that you select the correct time period for your travel report (e.g., the last year or your full travel history).

Step 3: Provide Required Documents and Pay Fees

Make sure you have your Emirates ID and a valid passport ready. The cost of obtaining the travel report will depend on the level of detail required.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Typically, it takes 2-3 business days for the report to be processed. However, urgent requests can often be expedited. You will receive a notification via email once your report is ready.

Step 5: Download the Report

After receiving the notification, log in to the portal and download your travel report directly from your account.

In addition to the online process, the GDRFA also offers an in-person option. You can visit the Al Aweer Service Center or seek assistance from Professional service experts in Dubai to obtain your travel report.

Contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs

If you are a UAE citizen, you can check your passport validity by visiting the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in your emirate. This government body is responsible for issuing reports for travellers with Dubai visas.

The GDRFA issues two types of travel reports: a single entry/exit travel report (which provides information on the traveller's last trip) and an overall entry or exit passenger report (which contains the history of a traveller). These reports are essential when cancelling a residence visa, during company closures, when migrating to another country, and when applying for an equivalency certificate.

The GDRFA also provides a service for issuing entry and exit movement statements, which record an individual's travel history in and out of the UAE. This document is useful for visa renewals, legal cases, and more. To obtain this statement, you can either visit the GDRFA Smart Services portal online or go in person to the Al Aweer Service Center in Dubai.

• Log in to the ICP or GDRFA Smart Services portal using your UAE Pass, Emirates ID, or passport number if you are a resident or foreigner.
• Select the 'Request for Travel Report' service.
• Fill out the application with the correct personal details, including your passport number, Emirates ID, and nationality. Verify the time period for which you require the travel report.
• Submit the application and pay the fees through the secure online portal. The fees typically range between AED 100 to AED 300, depending on the urgency and duration of the report.
• Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification, and the travel report will be available for download from your account.

If you have any further questions or require assistance, you can contact the GDRFA for more information. They should be able to guide you through the process and address any concerns you may have.

Frequently asked questions