Dubai launches "A Dubai Invite": Photo: Shutterstock Dubai is giving residents a new reason to welcome their loved ones to the emirate this year.
Through its newly launched "A Dubai Invite" campaign, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism is offering UAE residents and citizens exclusive rewards worth more than AED3,000 ($816) when they invite friends and family to visit the city between July 20 and October 31, 2026.
The initiative is designed to encourage tourism while celebrating Dubai's multicultural population, which is made up of millions of residents from around the world.
"Dubai is home to millions of people from every corner of the world, and every single one of you has someone you wish was closer," the campaign states on the official Visit Dubai website.
Residents aged 18 and older with a valid Emirates ID can nominate non-UAE resident friends and relatives through an online form. Visitors must arrive in Dubai by air, sea, or road during the promotional period and either hold a valid tourist visa or qualify for visa on arrival.
Once a nominated guest arrives, residents will automatically receive a benefits package via email after the visit is verified.
The rewards include discounts and complimentary experiences across some of Dubai's leading hospitality and entertainment brands. Participating offers include 45% off stays at Meliá Desert Palm, 35% off rooms at ME Dubai by Meliá, full resort credit at Destination Mina Seyahi, and complimentary nights at selected IHG properties.
Additional benefits cover dining experiences, attraction tickets, and various services, subject to availability and terms and conditions.
Residents can nominate as many visitors as they wish, although only five nominations can be submitted at a time. Each participant is eligible to receive a maximum of three benefit packages, which can be redeemed until December 31, 2026, unless otherwise specified.
The campaign reflects Dubai's continued efforts to strengthen its position as one of the world's leading tourism destinations. By encouraging residents to act as ambassadors for the city, officials hope to introduce more international visitors to Dubai's hotels, attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
With the busy winter travel season approaching, "A Dubai Invite" offers residents an added incentive to reunite with family and friends while showcasing everything the emirate has to offer.
For many expats living in Dubai, the campaign could be the perfect excuse to finally convince loved ones that it's time to book that long-awaited trip.