Citizens of India holding regular passports can now enjoy the convenience of visa-on-arrival services at any port of entry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This new policy streamlines travel for Indian nationals by providing multiple visa options upon arrival.

Visa Options for Indian Nationals

There are two visa categories available for eligible Indian travelers:

• 14-Day Visa:
  • Valid for 14 days
  • Can be extended for an additional 14 days
• 60-Day Visa:
  • Valid for 60 days
  • Non-extendable

The fees for both visa options are determined by UAE immigration regulations.

Eligibility for Visa-On-Arrival

Indian nationals must meet the following conditions to qualify for the visa-on-arrival service:

• Must possess a valid visa, permanent resident card, or green card issued by the United States, United Kingdom, or any EU member state.

• The passport must have at least six months of validity from the date of entry into the UAE.

Facilitating Travel for Indian Nationals

This visa policy aligns with UAE’s initiatives to enhance connectivity with India. In February 2023, Emirates Airline and VFS Global introduced a pre-approved visa-on-arrival service, making travel to Dubai easier for Indian passport holders. Passengers with reservations on Emirates can now use the VFS Global service to skip queues upon arrival in Dubai.

Additionally, Dubai introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa for Indian nationals, strengthening economic, tourism, and trade relations between the two countries.

Tourism Growth Between India and Dubai

India remains a vital market for Dubai’s tourism industry. According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Indian tourist numbers surged by 25% above pre-pandemic levels in 2023, with 2.46 million overnight stays recorded. This growth reinforces India’s position as Dubai's top tourist market.

Conclusion

The UAE’s visa-on-arrival policy for eligible Indian passport holders simplifies travel and fosters stronger tourism and economic ties between the two nations. With growing visitor numbers, Indian nationals can now enjoy more flexibility and convenience when planning their trips to Dubai and the broader UAE.