Dubai Police just made it easier to clear travel bans online — here’s how

Dubai: People facing travel bans — including those linked to rental-related financial disputes — can now have the restriction lifted within seconds, after Dubai Police made its “Inquiry About Circulars and Travel Bans” service fully available online.

The upgraded service allows users to check circular details, identify the issuing authority and pay outstanding amounts digitally, eliminating the need to visit any government entity.

Announcing the update during a press conference on Tuesday, Dubai Police said the service is accessible to users inside and outside the UAE through secure login using UAE Pass. Once payment is completed electronically, the travel ban is lifted automatically within seconds.

Previously, the process required formal applications and manual reviews by relevant authorities.

The new digital mechanism forms part of an expanded package of services available through Dubai Police’s website and smart application, aimed at simplifying procedures and accelerating case resolution.

In its first phase, the service covers cases issued by the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre, enabling individuals with rental-related financial claims to complete payments entirely online.

Dubai Police said coordination is currently under way with Dubai Courts and the Public Prosecution to integrate travel bans and circulars issued by both authorities into future phases of the system, ensuring full procedural integration and faster transaction processing.

Users also receive instant notifications if any circular or travel ban is registered against them.

Lawyers Platform launched

During the same briefing, Dubai Police announced the launch of the second generation of its official website and smart application, alongside a new Lawyers Platform offering seven specialised digital legal services.

The platform is designed to simplify procedures, accelerate transactions and support the government’s zero-bureaucracy strategy, while enhancing the experience of lawyers and legal consultants.

Strengthening digital services

Major General Dr Saleh Abdullah Murad, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Administrative Affairs and Chairman of the Customer Happiness Council at Dubai Police, said the upgrades reflect the organisation’s commitment to continuously developing its digital ecosystem.

He said the transformation supports faster and more flexible access to security, traffic, community and criminal services, while strengthening operational efficiency and service quality.

AI-powered platforms

Major General Khalid Nasser Al Razooqi, Director of the General Department of Artificial Intelligence, said artificial intelligence now forms a core pillar of modern policing.

He explained that the upgraded website and smart application follow the approved digital identity and offer services in seven UN-recognised languages, with support for more than 268 languages through AI systems.

The digital legal services were developed in line with approved legal frameworks, ensuring reliability, accuracy and seamless integration with relevant government entities.

Fewer in-person visits

Brigadier Majed Al Suwaidi, Director of the General Department of Police Stations, said the Lawyers Platform marks a major shift in service delivery.

Lawyers can now submit requests, upload documents and track cases online around the clock, significantly reducing the need to visit police stations and improving coordination with justice partners.

Unified digital experience

Hessa Al Balooshi, Director of Smart Applications at the General Department of Artificial Intelligence, said the platform offers a unified experience across the website and mobile application.

Users can access services, notifications and request tracking through a single dashboard, supported by intelligent tools that deliver faster and more personalised services.

Dedicated lawyers workspaces allow secure digital management of cases, powers of attorney and client requests using digital identity authentication.

An integrated case management system enables real-time tracking of applications, circulars and travel bans, supported by clear timelines and continuous updates via email, SMS and in-platform notifications.

The platform also includes Dubai Police AIX, an interactive digital assistant that provides guidance on services and procedures.

Seven digital legal services

The Lawyers Platform currently offers:

• Linking powers of attorney to officially represent clients in registered cases

• Secure electronic signing of powers of attorney

• Good Conduct Search Certificates to support lifting circulars after settlement

• Filing criminal complaints on behalf of clients following identity verification

• Issuance of To Whom It May Concern certificates related to cases

• Permits for virtual visits with detainees or inmates in Dubai

• Enquiry on circulars and travel bans with direct digital payment and case closure

Legal sector welcomes major digital shift

The legal community has welcomed the initiative, describing it as a significant step forward in streamlining judicial procedures.

Speaking to Gulf News Lawyer Abdul Munim bin Suwaidan said the platform represents a qualitative transformation that reduces time and effort for legal professionals.

He noted that the system effectively addresses challenges related to physical court attendance and rigid scheduling, contributing to improved efficiency across Dubai’s legal sector. Bin Suwaidan also praised Dubai Police for their proactive role in launching forward-looking initiatives that support both individuals and institutions.