Dubai Introduces 14 Day Pre-Approved Visa For Indian Flyers

In an effort to enhance tourism and business relations between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai has rolled out a 14-day pre-approved visa-on-arrival program for Indian passport holders. This new initiative aims to simplify the travel process for Indian citizens, eliminating the need for extensive visa applications.

Eligibility and application process

Indian passport holders eligible for this streamlined visa must possess a valid US visa, US Green Card, EU Residency permit, or UK Residency visa with a minimum validity of six months from their travel date. The application is accessible online via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website. The process involves submitting personal details, passport information, and travel plans. A nominal fee of approximately 253 Dirhams is payable online via credit or debit card. The processing time for the visa is around 48 hours, with email notifications keeping applicants updated on their application status.

Required documents

To ensure a smooth application process, applicants should have the following documents:

A valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended travel date.
Confirmed flight tickets and hotel bookings.
A permanent residence card from the US, UK, EU, or other valid residency permits.
A recent passport-sized photograph.

Extension option and Emirates partnership

Travelers wishing to extend their stay in Dubai beyond the initial 14 days can apply for a single 14-day extension upon arrival. This requires a visit to the GDRFA office in Dubai and submission of the necessary documents.

Additionally, Emirates airline offers an even more convenient option for its passengers. In collaboration with VFS Global, Emirates provides an exclusive pre-approved visa-on-arrival service. This partnership enables Indian travelers to book their flight, apply for the visa through the Emirates website or VFS Global, and receive confirmation before departure, allowing them to bypass regular visa queues upon arrival in Dubai.

Benefits of the latest visa initiative

The new visa program is expected to significantly boost tourism from India, enhancing Dubai’s vibrant cultural scene and economic landscape. It also aims to strengthen business ties between India and the UAE, fostering increased trade and investment opportunities.