All articlesIn a significant move to strengthen ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India, the UAE has expanded its visa-on-arrival privileges for Indian nationals. As of October 17, 2024, Indian citizens holding valid tourist visas from the European Union (EU), the United States (US), or the United Kingdom (UK) can now avail themselves of the visa-on-arrival facility when travelling to the UAE. This initiative, announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), marks a major step in enhancing the ease of travel between the two nations.
Prior to this expansion, the visa-on-arrival facility was only available to Indian nationals with residence permits in the US, UK, or EU. With this new update, individuals holding tourist visas for these regions are also eligible, significantly increasing the number of Indian travellers who can now enjoy hassle-free entry into the UAE. This move is expected to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the UAE and India.
Travellers availing this facility must ensure that their visa and passport are valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the UAE. Furthermore, visitors can extend their stay in the UAE by paying the required fees. As per the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the cost of a 14-day entry visa for Indian nationals holding valid US, UK, or EU visas or green cards is set at AED 100. If a longer stay is desired, the visa can be extended for another 14 days for an additional AED 250. For those looking for an extended visit, a 60-day visa is available for AED 250, offering greater flexibility to Indian tourists.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the ICA, underscored the importance of this move, stating that it reflects the UAE's commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with India. "The decision to extend visa-on-arrival access to Indian nationals with US, UK, and EU tourist visas comes as part of the UAE's broader efforts to facilitate travel and strengthen our long-standing ties with India," said Al Khaili. He further emphasised that this initiative will not only boost tourism but also encourage further economic cooperation and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
India and the UAE share a robust and multi-faceted relationship, with strong links in trade, investment, culture, and tourism. The UAE is home to a large Indian diaspora, with nearly 3.5 million Indians residing in the country, contributing significantly to the UAE's economy. The expansion of the visa-on-arrival facility is seen as a continuation of the UAE's efforts to make travel more accessible for Indian nationals, reinforcing the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
This development also comes at a time when global travel is recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. By simplifying entry procedures for Indian travellers, the UAE hopes to attract more visitors, stimulate the tourism industry, and provide Indian nationals with more opportunities to explore the country’s world-class attractions, business hubs, and cultural landmarks.
In conclusion, the UAE's decision to broaden visa-on-arrival access to a larger segment of Indian travellers signifies its ongoing commitment to fostering a closer relationship with India. With easier access to the UAE, Indian citizens can look forward to enhanced opportunities for leisure, business, and cultural exchange, further solidifying the bonds between the two nations. This initiative is a testament to the UAE's vision of building stronger global partnerships and promoting cross-border collaboration with key international players like India.
21 Oct 20243 min readsitemanager
UAE Expands Visa-On-Arrival Privileges for Indian Nationals
In a significant move to strengthen ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India, the UAE has expanded its visa-on-arrival privileges for Indian nationals.