Dubai, UAE – In a historic milestone, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) has been honored with the “Best Institutional Governance – Government Sector 2025” award by Global Banking & Finance Review. This is the first time a government entity in the Middle East has received such recognition, marking Dubai’s leadership in governance and public sector innovation on the global stage.
A Global Recognition for Excellence in Governance
The award highlights GDRFA-Dubai’s commitment to implementing world-class governance principles and its focus on continuous institutional development. By aligning with international standards of compliance and transparency, the organization has positioned itself as a benchmark for sustainable government performance.
Leadership and Vision

Lieutenant General Mohammad Ahmad Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA-Dubai, dedicated the achievement to Dubai’s visionary leadership.
“This award is a reflection of Dubai’s long-term commitment to excellence in governance and public service. We are determined to set a global example in institutional performance,” he said.
Dr. Hanan Abdullah Al Marzouqi, Director of Institutional Governance and Compliance, emphasized that the recognition is the result of collective teamwork. “Our operations strictly follow international laws and procedures, ensuring sustainability and accountability across government performance,” she noted.
Reinforcing Trust and Innovation
GDRFA-Dubai has already won numerous regional and international awards for excellence across various domains. Officials highlighted that this latest recognition underscores their efforts in:
- Enhancing public trust
- Improving institutional performance
- Delivering integrated government models
- Building a more sustainable and service-oriented future
Why It Matters
As Dubai strengthens its position as a global hub, such accolades not only reinforce international confidence but also showcase how the emirate’s governance model can inspire other nations.
With this recognition, GDRFA-Dubai has set a new benchmark for governance in the Middle East. Do you believe more government institutions in the region will now follow this path of transparency and excellence?