UAE expands visa on arrival eligibility for Indian citizens

New Delhi, Oct 19: More Indian travellers are now eligible for visa on arrival (VoA) in the UAE, which has long been the top international destination for Indian tourists. In a recent update, Indian citizens with valid visas from the United Kingdom and European Union countries will now qualify for VoA in the UAE. Previously, this privilege was limited to Indian citizens holding US tourist or residence visas and residency permits from the UK or EU.

The Indian Embassy in the UAE shared this update on social media, stating that all Indian citizens and their family members holding ordinary passports can now avail the VoA facility at any UAE port of entry. To be eligible, travellers must possess a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, or EU, with passports having at least six months of remaining validity.

According to the embassy’s post, "Indian citizens and their family members holding valid visas or residency permits from the US, EU, or UK will be granted a visa on arrival. The passport’s validity period must not be less than six months."

Travellers have two options for the VoA - a 14-day visa, extendable for an additional 14 days, or a 60-day non-extendable visa, both subject to applicable UAE fees.

As the largest international destination for Indian tourists, the UAE’s expanded VoA eligibility will further boost travel between the two countries. Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with their globally recognized airlines Emirates and Etihad, also serve as major transit hubs for Indian travellers heading to various parts of the world. By easing entry requirements, the UAE hopes to encourage more stopovers and visits from Indian tourists and transit passengers alike.