The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa-on-arrival programme for Indian nationals, allowing them greater access to the country and promoting business and travel between the two nations.
Effective February 13, 2024, Indian passport holders who possess valid visas or residence permits from six additional countries can now enter the UAE without having to apply for a visa beforehand. These six countries include Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, which augment the previous list of the United States, the United Kingdom, and various European Union nations.
This strategic expansion is intended to bolster the long-standing relationship between India and the UAE. Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, emphasized these intentions: "This new regulation aims to facilitate smoother entry for Indian travelers."
The initiative is set to simplify travel procedures immensely. Indian nationals desiring to visit the UAE will now find it easier than ever to acquire entry. They must have their regular passports valid for at least six months from their date of arrival and present their valid visas or residence permits from the newly included countries.
When arriving, travelers will need to pay applicable visa fees: Dh100 for a 14-day stay, with agreements available for extension at Dh250. A 60-day visa can also be sought for the same Dh250, offering more flexibility to those wishing to explore various facets of life within the UAE, from tourism to business opportunities.
This shift reflects the UAE’s ambition to attract Indian professionals, tourists, and potential investors. The expansion holds substantial prospects for tourism, employment, and residency for Indian travelers and their families, fundamentally aiming to create new, exciting experiences.
The visa-on-arrival programme targets boosting travel flows, with many travelers likely interested in the UAE's rich cultural heritage and modern economic environment. With Indian nationals comprising one of the largest expatriate communities within the UAE, the expansion of this programme directly benefits this demographic.
By potentially hundreds of thousands of travelers having access to the UAE through easier travel protocols, the UAE aims to position itself as one of the most accessible and attractive destinations for Indian nationals. The benefits of the new visa expansion directly support the country’s broader objectives of making travel, business arrangements, and investment processes smoother and more efficient.
Another key measure of this initiative involves encouraging Indian entrepreneurs and skilled professionals to explore job opportunities within the UAE’s vibrant economy. The UAE government is strategically promoting access as it seeks talented professionals to sustain its ambitions as a global financial and tourism hub.
The newly expanded visa-on-arrival policy marks yet another step toward fostering travel and cultural bridges between the UAE and India. The countries share deep-rooted historical, cultural, and economic connections, exemplified through continued collaboration and interaction.
This move is anticipated to significantly contribute to enhancing the UAE's appeal as the preferred destination for Indian travelers. With its world-class infrastructure, superb hospitality, and economic opportunities, the UAE remains firmly on the map for potential visitors from India.
The benefits of this initiative extend beyond mere travel; they help to fortify long-term economic relationships. By enhancing its visa-on-arrival programme, the UAE is actively seeking to earn frontier positioning as not only a premier travel destination but also as a startup haven—fostering innovation and investment within multiple sectors.
Experts believe this regulatory alteration will encourage Indian nationals to visit the UAE, leading to substantial increases not only in tourism revenue but also enriching cultural exchanges between the nations.
Through this visa expansion, more Indian nationals can experience the UAE firsthand, potentially leading to long-term stays, business ventures, and cross-cultural collaboration. The expanded visa policy is, at its core, about enhancing mobility, personal interaction, and creating richer experiences for Indian expatriates and tourists alike.
Therefore, beginning February 13, 2024, Indian nationals planning to travel to the UAE with relevant visas from select countries will discover just how accessible—and appealing—the UAE truly can be.