The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has launched A Dubai Invite, a new city ambassador programme that rewards UAE residents and citizens who invite loved ones from overseas to visit the emirate.How the programme worksTo take part, eligible residents must register the details of their visiting friends or relatives through the programme's online nomination form before they arrive.Participants can nominate up to five visitors at a time, with additional nominations allowed through separate submissions.Once the visitors arrive in Dubai, their entry will be automatically verified. Residents will then receive an email containing their reward package and instructions on how to redeem the benefits.The rewards remain valid until December 31, 2026, unless otherwise stated.Who can participate?The programme is open to:UAE residents and citizens aged 18 or olderHolders of a valid Emirates IDVisitors who are not UAE residentsGuests travelling on a valid tourist visa or eligible for visa on arrivalVisitors arriving in Dubai between July 20 and October 31, 2026, by air, sea or roadThe programme does not include visa arrangements. Visitors are responsible for obtaining their own visas where required.Rewards worth more than Dh3,000Each eligible nomination can unlock a package of benefits valued at more than Dh3,000.The rewards include offers across:HotelsRestaurantsTourist attractionsLifestyle servicesFeatured participating brands include W Dubai Mina Seyahi, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, Meliá Desert Palm, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Careem and Hala.Each eligible resident can receive a maximum of three reward packages during the campaign.Important rules to knowEach visitor can only be nominated once during the programme. If another resident has already registered the same person, subsequent nominations will not qualify.Residents do not need to notify DET when their guests arrive, as arrivals are verified automatically.DET said reward emails will be sent within 72 hours of the visitor's verified arrival, with rewards being issued from August 2026.Dhanusha is a Chief Reporter at Gulf News in Dubai, with her finger firmly on the pulse of UAE, regional, and global aviation. She dives deep into how airlines and airports operate, expand, and embrace the latest tech.