Improvements to the UK's visa services showcased to local media

During their visit, the media were able to experience first-hand the new application procedures. They were given a detailed presentation outlining the various changes, as well as an overview of electronic finger-scanning (biometrics), designed to protect identity and improve security. The visit culminated in a tour of the new VAC premises.

Visa Application Centres have already been introduced successfully in over 100 other countries by the British Government's visa department, UKvisas. The objective is twofold. First, to make the application process easier and more straightforward for the visa applicant, by allowing him or her to apply for a British visa through conveniently located centres in a comfortable environment with extended opening hours. Second, to increase the security and efficiency of the visa operation for the British Government.

The new facilities are operated by a number of different commercial partners worldwide, who effectively become the first point of contact for most visa applicants. The commercial partner provides administrative support to the Embassy's Visa Section - for example collection of the visa fee, checking the correct visa form is used and so on. This enables the Embassy to focus on the key tasks of assessment and decision making. The commercial partner plays no part in the decision-making process - all decisions are still made at the British Embassy by UK visa officers. In the Middle East, the VACs are run in partnership with VFS Global Ltd, a subsidiary of the Swiss-based Kuoni travel company.

From 26 September, all applicants in Abu Dhabi & Dubai will need to attend the VAC to provide their biometrics data, rather than applying in person at the British Embassy. Biometrics Enrolment is being introduced around the world, and has already been implemented in over 100 countries. The UAE will be the 107th country. This data will be collected by VFS and treated in full confidence, processed and disclosed only in accordance with UK data protection legislation.

On completion of the fingerscanning and relevant documentation, VFS will forward the applications to the Visa Section of the British Embassy for decision in the normal way. The Visa Section will return passports and supporting documents after their decision has been made, for delivery back to applicants. For the overwhelming majority of applications, decisions will continue to be made within 24 hours and the passport returned to the Commercial Partner in that time. Payment for the visa is undertaken at the VAC in cash.

Foreign Office Minister, Dr Kim Howells, said: 'The UK has a unique and historic relationship with people of the Gulf. We want to strengthen the links between our people at all levels and maintain and enhance our position as the destination of choice in what is an increasingly competitive global market. To this end, we are opening new Visa Application Centres throughout the Gulf region from September, which will offer a premium service to our valued Gulf customers.'