Dubai / UAE residence visa rules evoke mixed reaction

A new rule that calls for all expatriates looking to get a family member to the UAE on a residency visa or a housemaid or driver, to mandatory submit a copy of an attested tenancy contract and utility bills has opened a pandora's box.

Even though, this is not required for visit visas, the news has disturbed a cross section of residents who are all vociferously making their feelings heard .

Speaking to Emirates 247, staffer at al Bahjah typing center in Karama said, it is already two months since we were told to ask for the attested tenancy contract and electricity bill , but it is only about 15 to 20 days since it is strictly being implemented.

Another staff at ARA Secretarial Service and typing Center said, some people are confused that even those employed in a company who renew their visa need to show the tenancy contract. But this is not true. Neither do you need these documents if you are applying for visit visa.

Abdulla Kutty from Kozhikode in Kerala said that he had been sharing a two-bedroom apartment in Ajman with his office colleague and has plans to bring his wife on residence visa after the Eid holidays, But now i will have to probably get her an employement visa "said Kutty.

According to Ansari Zainuddin of al Fajer legal Consultants, the rule has been there for quite some time but is only being strictly implemented now.

It makes sense because if you as an individual cannot afford to rent our own house how will you be able to sponsor your family and take care of them. It causes a bit of discomfort to people with less income, but it makes sense , " he said.