UAE Updates Visa-on-Arrival Rules for Indian Passport Holders
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For all the Indians planning a last-minute getaway to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the UAE offers a visa on arrival facility for eligible Indian passport holders, making spontaneous travel smoother than ever. However, this benefit only applies to travellers who meet the specific eligibility requirements tied to certain visas or residency permits.
Indian nationals holding a valid normal passport, which has a validity of no less than 6 months, can easily get a 14-day single-entry visa on arrival, which can be further extended once for another 14 days.
The cost of this visa is USD 63 (approximately AED 253) and the process takes only a few minutes at any major UAE airports.
Eligibility Requirements for Indian Passport Holders for the UAE Visa on Arrival
To qualify for a visa on arrival, Indian travellers must hold a valid visa or resident permit from one of the approved countries, and their permit must be valid for at least six months, from the date of arrival. The requirements details include:
- A US Green card, or any valid US visa
- A residence permit or a valid visa issued by the United Kingdom, including eVisas
- A resident permit or a valid visa from any EU Member state
- A resident permit from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea.
This means that Indians residing or holding long-term visas from these countries can simply fly in and get stamped at immigration with no major application requirements.
Also Read: UAE Launches 30-Minute Return Permit for Golden Visa Holders Stranded Abroad
New List of UAE Visa on Arrival Eligible Countries for Indian Passport Holders in 2025
In February 2025, the UAE has expanded its program by adding six more countries, namely Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, to the eligibility list
Before this update, the visa on arrival rule applied only to Indian travellers holding visas or resident permits from the United States, the United Kingdom, and European Union member states
This expansion now opens doors to a much larger group of Indian professionals and students living abroad who can visit the UAE without paperwork delays
Validity, Extension, and Overstay Rules for UAE Visa on Arrival for Indian Passport Holders
- Stay duration Validity: 14 days from the date of entry.
- Extension Eligibility: Once only for an extra 14 days that is a total of 28 days. The extension costs about AED 250 and must be done before your first 14-day expiry.
- Overstay Rules: A fine of AED 200 for the first day and higher penalties thereafter. There is no grace period provided by the UAE, and you must exit or extend on time.
Documents Required to Carry When Opting for UAE Visa on Arrival By Indian Passport Holders
Upon arriving at Dubai or Abu Dhabi Airport, you will need to head to the Marhaba Visa on arrival counter before immigration, and you will need to carry the following list of documents:
- Your Indian passport
- Valid visa or residence permit from one of the eligible countries (printed or in physical form)
- Return or onward ticket showing departure within 14 days
- Proof of accommodation (Hotel bookings or host details)
- Proof of funds (bank statement, cash, or card)
- Though not mandatory, carrying travel insurance is recommended.
The process typically takes about 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the airport queue.
When do Indians not qualify for the UAE visa on arrival?
If you are an Indian passport holder without a valid visa or residency from any of the approved list of countries, you will need to apply for the UAE tourist visa or UAE visit visa before your travel.
These visas usually grant you a 30 to 60-day validity, which can be obtained through UAE-based airlines like Emirates or Etihad, licensed agents, or via GDRFA or ICP online portals. The processing of these visitor visas generally takes two to five working days.
Also Read: UAE Introduces 4 New Visit Visas Along With Major Residency Rules Updates
Other Nationalities Eligible for Visa on Arrival in the UAE
While Indians have conditional eligibility, many nationalities receive automatic entry benefits. These include:
| Visa Type | Countries Eligible |
|---|---|
| 30-Day Visa-Free Entry (No Fee, Issued on Arrival) | Andorra, Brunei, Hong Kong (China), Kazakhstan, Macau (China), Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, Mongolia, Republic of Ireland, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vatican City |
| 90-Day Multiple-Entry Visa (Valid for Six Months) | Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Austria, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kiribati, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Guyana, Romania, Russia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay |
| 180-Day Visa (for Mexican Nationals) | Mexico |
Need Immigration Guidance? Connect With GetGIS
This updated policy makes quick business trips, family visits, and weekend breaks to Dubai or Abu Dhabi seamless, strengthening their travel convenience, while highlighting the UAE's growing openness and deep ties with the Indian community.
If you are also planning to move abroad or explore global opportunities, connect with GetGIS for expert immigration and visa support guidance to help you choose the right pathway and avoid refusal or delays
Also Read
- Saudi Arabia Launches New Instant eVisa Platform for Faster and Simplified Travel Entry
- Qatar Golden Visa to Offer Long-Term Stay and PR Opportunities
- GCC to Launch Unified Tourist Visa for Six Gulf Nations By Late 202
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