GDRFA Dubai Airport Family Counters 2026: Services, Facilities, and Benefits for Arriving Families

Dubai International Airport continues to set global standards for traveler convenience, and one of its latest family-focused initiatives proves it. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs (GDRFA) has launched dedicated family counters and lounges across Dubai Airport terminals, ensuring smoother, faster, and more comfortable arrivals for families traveling with children.

This 2026 guide explains the new GDRFA family services, counter locations, available facilities, and benefits for families arriving in Dubai.

Introduction to GDRFA’s Family-Friendly Initiative

The GDRFA’s family counters were created in response to feedback from travelers who wanted a more convenient arrival experience for families, especially those with young children or elderly members.
These dedicated counters ensure families can complete immigration and customs procedures quickly, avoiding long queues and unnecessary waiting times.

GDRFA Family Counters at Dubai Airport: Overview

Locations of Family Counters in Dubai Airport

GDRFA family counters are strategically placed in:

• Terminal 1 (Arrivals & Departures)

• Terminal 2 (Arrivals Hall & Baggage Claim)

• Terminal 3 (Departure and Arrival Halls)

These counters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing continuous support for families arriving from around the world.

Dedicated Assistance for Families

Upon arrival, families are guided directly to the nearest GDRFA Family Counter, where multilingual staff assist with:

• Document verification and entry permit stamping.

• Child-friendly immigration clearance.

• Fast-track baggage and customs assistance.

Key Services Offered by GDRFA for Families

Immigration and Entry Permit Assistance

Families arriving with valid visas or eVisas can quickly clear immigration with GDRFA’s help. Staff also provide details about short-term entry permits, visa-on-arrival rules, and residency extensions for dependents.

Temporary Residence and Visa Guidance

For visitors planning an extended stay, GDRFA offers assistance with obtaining a temporary residence visa, allowing families to stay for up to 30 days with multiple re-entry options during validity.

Multilingual Support and Tourist Assistance

The GDRFA team includes multilingual staff fluent in English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and more. They assist with questions related to:

• Schools and nurseries in Dubai

• Medical and childcare facilities

• Travel within the UAE

• Local emergency contacts and resources

Facilities Available at the Family Lounge

Play Areas and Child-Friendly Spaces

Each family lounge includes a dedicated play area for children, ensuring parents can relax while immigration formalities are completed.

Accommodation and Travel Assistance

The GDRFA counter provides information about family-friendly hotels, special rates, and nearby accommodations. Staff can also help with airport-to-hotel transfers, car rentals, and tourist packages.

Priority Processing for Families and Elderly Travelers

Families with young children (under 10), senior citizens (above 60), and travelers with special needs receive priority processing at immigration and customs counters.

GDRFA Services for Residents and Visitors

Beyond family assistance, the GDRFA provides vital immigration and visa-related services for both residents and international visitors, such as:

• Issuing and renewing UAE residence permits.

• Providing entry visas for expatriates and visitors.

• Processing temporary driver’s licenses for new residents.

• Managing visa transfers and cancellations.

These services aim to simplify entry and residency formalities for everyone visiting or relocating to Dubai.

Why Dubai Airport Introduced the Family Lounge Service

The family lounge initiative is part of Dubai’s ongoing commitment to enhancing passenger experience and making the airport more family-friendly.

At Terminal 3 (Gate 5), the family lounge features:

• Comfortable seating areas

• Baby care facilities

• Separate family queues

• Personalized flight and baggage assistance

The lounge operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, ensuring convenience for travelers at all major flight times.

How GDRFA Enhances the Arrival Experience in Dubai

The GDRFA’s initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader vision for 2026 — to be the world’s most family-friendly destination. By streamlining entry procedures and offering real-time assistance, the GDRFA ensures that every family entering Dubai experiences a smooth, secure, and welcoming arrival.

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While GDRFA simplifies arrival for families, the visa process still requires accuracy and preparation. Many travelers face delays or rejections due to incomplete applications.

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Conclusion

The GDRFA’s family counters mark a significant step toward improving the arrival experience in Dubai. From dedicated immigration lanes to comfortable lounges and multilingual support, Dubai ensures that families feel welcomed, secure, and valued the moment they land.

Whether you’re stopping over or starting a new life in the UAE, these services guarantee a seamless and stress-free arrival process.

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