UAE Visa: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a Visa on Arrival option for Indian citizens, allowing them to travel directly to Dubai and other Emirates without undergoing an extensive visa application process. This initiative took effect on February 13, 2025.
Previously, Indian citizens could obtain a visa on arrival in countries such as Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. With this new development, the UAE joins this distinguished list. Notably, Indian citizens holding green cards or resident permits from the aforementioned six countries will be eligible for this facility.
This change is expected to significantly benefit Indian entrepreneurs and tourists, while also providing a boost to Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. According to media reports, the Visa on Arrival service for Indians commenced on February 13, 2025. Initially, this service was restricted to Indian residents of the United States, European Union, and the United Kingdom, but it has now been expanded to include Indian citizens residing in six additional countries.
To utilize this facility, certain conditions must be met, including:
– A passport with a minimum validity of six months
– A valid visa, green card, or resident permit
This initiative by the UAE government aims to streamline travel processes for Indian travelers and create new employment opportunities within the country.
In addition to the Visa on Arrival, other visa options are available:
– Single Entry Tourist Visa: Valid for either 30 or 60 days
– Multiple Entry Tourist Visa: Available for 30 days, 60 days, or up to 5 years
– Transit Visa: Valid for either 48 hours or 96 hours
– E-Visa facility for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries
This decision by the UAE is designed to expedite the visa acquisition process for Indian travelers, enabling them to visit Dubai and other Emirates with greater ease and efficiency.