The United Arab Emirates (UAE) officially stated that citizens with regular passports are now eligible to take advantage of visa-on-arrival services at all entrance points across the nation, which is a major development for Indian tourists. This new policy aims to streamline travel for Indian nationals and enhance tourism ties between the two nations.
Visa-On-Arrival in UAE Options Available For Indians
Eligible Indian travelers will have two options when applying for a visa upon arrival –
- 14-Day Visa – This visa is extendable for an additional 14 days, allowing for a potential stay of up to 28 days in total.
- 60-Day Non-Extendable Visa – A longer option for those who plan to stay without the possibility of extending their visit.
Both visa categories will require travelers to pay the relevant fees as stipulated by UAE regulations.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the visa-on-arrival, applicants must meet specific criteria. The policy is applicable only to individuals who possess permanent resident cards, green cards, or valid visas from the United States, United Kingdom, or any country within the European Union. Additionally, travelers must ensure that their passports are valid for at least six months from their intended date of entry into the UAE.
This announcement builds upon previous efforts to facilitate travel for Indian nationals. In February 2023, Emirates airline partnered with VFS Global to introduce a pre-approved visa-on-arrival service for Indian passport holders who booked their travel with Emirates. The service aimed to streamline the entry process, allowing travelers to bypass long queues upon arrival in Dubai.
Earlier this year, Dubai also launched a five-year multiple-entry visa for Indian nationals, aimed at boosting business, tourism, and economic relations between India and the UAE.
India has emerged as a significant source of tourists for Dubai. In 2023, the emirate recorded a 25% increase in Indian visitors compared to pre-pandemic levels, with 2.46 million overnight stays. This surge has solidified India’s position as Dubai’s top tourism market, according to a report from Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism released in February 2023.
The UAE’s latest visa-on-arrival policy is expected to further enhance its attractiveness as a travel destination for Indian tourists.

News Source: Indian Passport Holders Can Now Avail Visa-On-Arrival In UAE