DUBAI JOBS: More than 4,000 people have participated in job interviews in Dubai during the first two weeks of the UAE's visa amnesty programme, according to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). This initiative, aimed at helping visa violators regularize their status, has already resulted in 58 people being employed in roles that match their skills and experience, with more cases still under review.

The GDRFA highlighted that this programme is designed to help those residing illegally in the country either gain legal status or leave without facing penalties, fines, or bans. The amnesty will run from September 1 to October 30, providing visa violators the chance to secure a brighter future.

The integration of job opportunities within the amnesty programme is seen as a vital step towards promoting social cohesion and economic empowerment, contributing to a stable and prosperous society, the GDRFA said.

During the first week, 88 percent of applicants expressed a desire to remain in the UAE. Dubai alone received around 20,000 applications. Those seeking to stay in the country must obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

To help applicants, several companies have conducted on-the-spot interviews at the Al Awir tent. Among the first to secure a job was Hamza Gul, who spent a night outside the GDRFA office in hopes of regularizing his status.

Authorities and consulates have encouraged illegal residents to take advantage of the amnesty before the deadline. In Dubai, services are available at Amer centres and the GDRFA office in Al Awir. In Abu Dhabi, applications can be made at ICP centres in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Maqa, and Al Shahama. Visa violators can also apply at ICP centres across the UAE, approved typing centres, and online platforms.

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