The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government recently updated their visa rules allowing expats to sponsor their family and friends who wanted to visit the UAE. To provide more ease to people wanting to visit the UAE, starting February 13, 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has significantly expanded its visa-on-arrival program for Indian nationals. Previously, this facility was limited to Indian citizens holding valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from the United States, United Kingdom, or European Union. With the new update, the eligibility criteria now extend to those with similar documentation from the following countries:
- Singapore
- Japan
- South Korea
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Canada
Easier Access for Indian Tourists
The UAE has been a favored destination for Indian travelers, whether for tourism, investing, or working. With this latest visa policy change, more Indian citizens can now enter the UAE with minimal hassle, making the country even more accessible. Under the revised scheme, Indian passport holders with qualifying visas or residence permits from the designated countries can obtain a 14-day visa upon arrival in the UAE through any entry point, whether they are arriving in Dubai, Sharjah or Abu Dhabi.
For travelers to be eligible, their Indian passport and the qualifying visa or residence permit must have at least six months of validity at the time of entry. The process does not require prior application for a standard tourist visa, making it an attractive option for frequent travelers and business professionals.
How to Apply for the Visa-on-Arrival?
Eligible Indian travelers can apply for pre-approved entry permits through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). The online application process ensures a smooth travel experience, allowing visitors to plan their trips with confidence.
- The visa-on-arrival is granted for 14 days, with an option for a one-time extension for another 14 days.
- The processing time for the visa is approximately 48 hours.
- The fee for this visa is estimated to be around AED 250.
Indian travelers arriving at UAE airports will need to present their valid passport along with the visa or residence permit from the eligible countries. Immigration authorities will verify the documentation before issuing the visa-on-arrival, allowing seamless entry into the UAE.
Impact on Travel and Business
The UAE has long been a global hub for business and tourism, and this move is expected to further boost travel between India and the UAE. According to the UAE Ministry Of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Indians make up the largest expatriate community in the UAE. Expanding the visa-on-arrival program makes travel more convenient, ensuring easier access for those wanting to reunite with loved ones while also fostering trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
Business travelers, in particular, stand to benefit from this expansion. Indian professionals and entrepreneurs with business engagements in the UAE can now visit the country with greater ease, reducing visa processing time and enabling last-minute travel arrangements.
Tourism is another sector that will see a positive impact. With major attractions like Burj Khalifa, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai Mall, the UAE is already a preferred holiday destination for Indian tourists. The simplified visa process will encourage more spontaneous and frequent visits, benefiting the local hospitality and retail industries.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
The decision to widen the visa-on-arrival facility aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to enhance relations with India. India and the UAE share strong economic ties, with trade and investment between the two countries reaching significant milestones over the years. This policy not only makes travel easier but also reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering stronger diplomatic and economic partnerships with India.
Final Thoughts
The UAE’s decision to expand its visa-on-arrival policy for Indian nationals is a landmark move that will benefit travelers, businesses, and the tourism sector alike. By allowing more Indian citizens to enter the UAE effortlessly, the country is reinforcing its reputation as a welcoming global destination. Whether for leisure, work, or investment, Indian travelers now have an easier route to experience the UAE’s world-class infrastructure, opportunities, and hospitality.
For those coming to the UAE in search of work, this initiative makes the transition smoother. And once you’ve secured a job and are ready to relocate, you can book international movers in Dubai hassle-free through ServiceMarket, ensuring a smooth relocation. Whether moving internationally or within the city, this enhanced connectivity supports individuals, businesses, and overall economic growth, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading global destination.
