Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the UAE welcomed the lifting of visa fees for children under 18 years old during the summer season.
In an effort to promote family tourism, the UAE Cabinet announced that visa fee will be waived for children under 18 from July 15 to September 15 of each year.
The Cabinet’s decision aims to reduce the cost on visitors during the summer season and is expected to make the country a prime destination attracting more families.
Many OFWs praised the UAE leadership and the Cabinet for the new decision as they can now bring their children to the UAE without having to pay for visa fee.
Not only can they children visit and take snaps of different landmarks and tourist attractions in the UAE, the move could also help bring families together through bonding and travelling.
OFW Jennifer Lapitan even teased Krystine Ann Yu to celebrate her birthday in Dubai.
Cynthia Abante said she could start looking for available dates to book flight tickets for her children.
Amikko Marasigan said that her wife, Shey, and their child should visit the UAE for vacation.
It looks like Kailey would be able to visit UAE, again?
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Conflicting schedule
While many welcomed the news, some raised concerns over conflicting schedule as the summer season in the UAE coincides with schools opening in the Philippines.
Devani Pascual’s concern is not the school season but the securing of appointment date for passport application at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Despite some concerns, many OFWs are still thankful of the lifting of visa fee for children under 18 years old. After all, the move would give them the opportunity to spend time with their children.
Families could enjoy historical sites, hotel and tourism services, and a number of festivals and activities throughout the year.
RELATED STORY: UAE waives visa fee for children under 18 years old
