The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially introduced a Visa on Arrival option for Indian citizensallowing direct travel to Dubai and other Emirates without the need for an extensive visa application process. This initiative came into effect on February 13, 2025and is expected to simplify travel for Indian tourists and entrepreneurs.

UAE Joins Global List of Visa-Friendly Nations

Previously, Indian citizens could obtain a Visa on Arrival in countries like Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. With the UAE now offering this facility, Indian travelers gain another hassle-free international destination.

Notably, Indian citizens holding Green Cards or resident permits from the above-mentioned countries are also eligible for this Visa on Arrival service, further expanding travel opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria for UAE Visa on Arrival

To avail of the Visa on Arrival in the UAE, Indian travelers must meet the following conditions:

Valid passport with a minimum of six months validity
Valid visa, Green Card, or resident permit from eligible countries
Travelers must comply with UAE immigration guidelines at the port of entry

Expansion of UAE Visa Facility

Initially, this service was limited to Indian residents of the United States, European Union, and the United Kingdom. However, the new expansion now includes Indian citizens residing in six additional countriesmaking UAE travel more accessible than ever before.

This decision is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and employment opportunitiesenhancing UAE’s appeal as a global hub.

Additional UAE Visa Options for Indian Travelers

Apart from the Visa on ArrivalIndian citizens can apply for various other UAE visa optionsincluding:

Single Entry Tourist Visa – Valid for 30 or 60 days
Multiple Entry Tourist Visa – Available for 30 days, 60 days, or up to 5 years
Transit Visa – Short-term visa valid for 48 or 96 hours
E-Visa Facility – Available for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries

A Significant Move for UAE-India Travel Relations

This initiative by the UAE government aims to streamline the visa process for Indian travelers while strengthening business, tourism, and employment ties between the two nations. With Dubai already being one of the most popular destinations for Indian tourists, the new Visa on Arrival policy will further enhance convenience and accessibility for travelers.

Indian citizens planning to visit the UAE for leisure, business, or transit purposes can now benefit from faster and more efficient travel without undergoing lengthy visa application procedures.