UAE Visa Update for Indians: Can You Visit Visa-Free in 2024?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently revamped its visa on arrival policy, granting visa-free entry to citizens of 87 countries. This exciting news simplifies the arrival process for many travelers, but Indian passport holders might be wondering: can I now visit the UAE with just my passport?

The answer, for now, is no. India is not currently included in the list of countries eligible for visa on arrival in the UAE. Indian citizens still require a visa to visit, details and application procedures for which can be found on the official UAE government website (https://www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-information).

However, there are alternative options to explore:

• Pre-approved Visa on Arrival with Emirates: A glimmer of hope exists for some Indian travelers. Emirates, a major Dubai-based airline, offers a pre-approved visa on arrival program for select Indian passport holders flying with them. This applies specifically to those with a valid six-month visa for the US, a US Green Card, or a residency visa for the EU or UK.

• Future Policy Changes: The recent UAE policy update might be a positive sign for future visa accessibility for Indian citizens. While there's no guarantee, it's worth keeping an eye on official channels for updates.

Here's a quick summary for Indian travelers:

• Visa on Arrival: Not currently available (except for the specific Emirates program mentioned above).

• Visa Required: Apply for a visa before travelling to the UAE. Details and application procedures can be found on the official UAE government website (https://www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-information).

• Stay Updated: This blog post will be updated if there are any further changes to the UAE visa on arrival policy for Indian citizens.

Tips for Indian Travelers:

• Double-check visa requirements: Confirm visa requirements well in advance of booking your trip. Reliable sources include the official UAE government website or your local UAE embassy/consulate.

• Explore alternative options: If you hold a valid US visa/Green Card or an EU/UK residency visa, consider flying with Emirates to potentially benefit from their pre-approved visa on arrival program.

• Stay informed: Travel regulations can change frequently. Bookmark the UAE government's visa information page or subscribe for updates to stay informed.

Hopefully, this information empowers you to navigate the UAE visa process for Indian travelers. With careful planning and a little research, your dream trip to the UAE can become a reality.