VFS Global Launches Dedicated France Visa Centre in Abu Dhabi to Serve All Emirates
VFS Global has inaugurated a new centre in Abu Dhabi, located at The Mall – World Trade Centre on Khalifa Bin Zayed the 1st Street, to process France visa applications for all seven emirates. The centre was officially opened on December 18 by Soumya Zelmat, Consul of France in Abu Dhabi.
Applicants can apply remotely through the ‘Visa At Your Doorstep’ service or in person at the centre. The initiative aims to provide efficient and transparent services to those wishing to visit France from the UAE. The new centre, the first stand-alone France Visa Application Centre in the country, underscores the growing demand for France as a destination.
Soumya Zelmat stated, “The opening of this new visa centre entirely dedicated to France reaffirms our commitment to facilitating exchanges between France and the UAE. We understand the importance of facilitating international travel for tourists, students, business people, and families, and we are committed to providing a smooth and hassle-free visa application experience in all seven emirates.”
The facility features a spacious waiting area, state-of-the-art biometric facilities, and a dedicated space to promote France as a destination, offering key information to applicants. Various optional services, including courier return service, Prime Time for submissions outside business hours, visa assistance, and form filling, are available. Additionally, a Premium Lounge offers a more personalized service with end-to-end assistance throughout the process in a luxurious setting.
Applicants for Schengen countries other than France in Abu Dhabi will continue to submit their documents at the Joint Visa Application Centre in World Trade Centre Mall. The move reflects the increased demand for France as a destination, with a 45% growth in France visa applications in the UAE recorded as of November 2023 compared to November 2022.
