Originally Posted by Lamplighter

Update:
I have spoken with an officer from the UAE Embassy in London Visa section this morning, and he advised me that my wife's UK residency status was immaterial in consideration of their issuing her with a UAE residence visa as my spouse. Correct - no one said it was relevant. What I told you was that her UK residency status could be affected if she is not living there.

It appears that the correct procedure is for me to obtain necessary residency myself, then to "invite" her (via my employer) to join me. He advised that this should take 4/5 weeks, then she would follow. He also advised me to get translated and authenticated copies of documents whilst still in the UK.

This being the case, I guess the recent thread "The definitive guide to getting a visa for your wife in Dubai" by NickisinDubai contains solid information. If there is any other guide to the process worth a look, I'd be grateful if someone could point this out. Your emoloyer should deal with this whole process. Make sure you obtain their agreement to do so.

As a further question, do I have to be in UAE whilst my residency visa is being considered/processed? Can I start (or even complete) this process whilst still in the UK such that my wife and I can travel out together? No - you need to be here,

Thanks in Advance!
Lamp