Forty community volunteers have contributed a total of 5,040 hours during the first three weeks of the ongoing amnesty, assisting customers at Amer centres across Dubai. These volunteer efforts are part of a campaign by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) aimed at supporting amnesty seekers nationwide.
The UAE initiated a two-month amnesty program on September 1, offering hope to thousands of illegal residents. Currently, those residing illegally in the country can opt to leave without penalties or convert their visa to a residency visa if they secure employment. Amer centres in Dubai and the status regularization centre in Al Aweer have become crucial hubs for humanitarian volunteer work, drawing hundreds of volunteer hours that aid beneficiaries and provide necessary support.
Hundreds of residents have already taken advantage of the amnesty program to regularize their status. For some, this meant having thousands of dirhams in fines waived, while for others, it was an opportunity to start anew and secure identities for their children.
GDRFA has collaborated with Watani Al Emarat Foundation to recruit volunteers of various nationalities to support the campaign's objectives and ensure its success. These volunteers assist in organizing visitors, guiding them to the appropriate departments, and facilitating procedures efficiently. The authority aims to expand the campaign to include at least 100 volunteers.
Brigadier Abdul Samad Hussein Suleiman, Acting Assistant Director General for the Institutional Support Sector, expressed pride in the success and the contributions of all involved, emphasizing the importance of continuing these efforts to achieve the desired impact. According to authorities, the volunteers, who work for at least six hours daily, also play a vital role in supporting media teams documenting the campaign's events and daily successes.
Brigadier Abdul Samad Suleiman also highlighted that volunteer work is integral to Dubai Residency's institutional identity, stating that 'volunteers are the backbone of the campaign's success.' He added that the presence of volunteers reflects the administration's commitment to fostering volunteerism as a community practice, aligning with Dubai Residency's vision of building a united and safe community.
The GDRFA encourages all UAE residents to take advantage of this opportunity to correct their status or leave the country voluntarily without fines. Residents can contact Amer call centres, which operate 24/7, at 8005111 for more information and support.
