Japan offers new multiple visa for Emiratis

From October 15 Emiratis can apply for a multiple visa to Japan that is valid for three years, the Japanese Consulate in Dubai said. UAE nationals who reside in the UAE can apply for a "temporary visit” which allows them to visit Japan for up to 90 days for each stay in Japan, a statement from the consulate said. The application is open for purposes such as tourism, "short-term business affairs”, and visits to friends and relatives, according to a press release by the Consulate General of Japan yesterday. Emiratis applying to the Consulate in Dubai must show proof of residence in the UAE, such as utility bills, the consulate's website adds. "The Consulate General of Japan in Dubai is authorised to issue visas to the UAE nationals and those who possess residential status in Dubai and other five emirates [Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Qaiwain],” the website explains. Emiratis living in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain should apply to the Japanese Embassy in Abu Dhabi while those living in Dubai and the northern emirates can apply at the consulate in Dubai. The procedures and requirements for this new visa option have been explained on the web link, www.dubai.uae.emb-japan.go.jp/index_english.htm No information on visa fees was available in the statement released yesterday (Sunday). The Consulate's website notes "visa fee varies from one nationality to another. Certain countries are visa fee exemption countries. Please ask staff members for details”. However, the fee under the "General” category is priced at Dh275. The Consulate, located on floor 28 of the World Trade Centre in Dubai, can be reached on 04 331 9191. The development is expected to attract "significantly” more Emiratis to Japan, the consulate said. It listed a range of Japan's attractions – from skiing on "high quality” snow in the north to diving in tropical waters and reefs in the south of the island country. Japans also offers all the four seasons to visitors. "Japan is getting more and more ready to welcome Muslim tourists. There are halal restaurants and mosques in major cities,” the consulate added. The restaurants and mosques have been listed on www.jnto.org.sg/for_muslim_visitors.html "We sincerely hope that more and more Emirati people will enjoy Japan's scenic beauty, excellent food and its friendly people.” Source: Gulf News