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Here’s what’s changed and who’s eligible
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UAE expands visa-on-arrival eligibility for Indian travellers holding valid visas or residence permits from the US, UK, EU, and now six new countries including Canada, Australia, and Japan
If you’re an Indian passport holder planning a quick trip to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s visa-on-arrival facility offers a convenient way to enter the country — provided you meet certain eligibility conditions. Indian nationals with a valid passport (at least six months) can get a 14-day single-entry visa on arrival, extendable once for another 14 days. The cost is USD 63 (around AED 253), and processing at the airport takes only a few minutes, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
In February 2025, the UAE expanded its visa-on-arrival programme, adding six new countries — Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada — to the eligibility list.
Previously, only Indian travellers with valid visas or residence permits from the United States, the United Kingdom, or European Union member states could benefit from this facility.
The move allows a broader pool of Indian professionals, students, and families living abroad to visit the UAE without the hassle of prior visa applications — reflecting the UAE’s continued openness and its deep ties with India.
Stay Duration & Extension:
- 14 days from the date of entry
- Extendable once for another 14 days (total 28 days) for about AED 250 (₹5,600) before the initial stay expires.
- Overstay fine: AED 200 for the first day, with higher penalties after — no grace period applies
Indian travellers must hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of the approved countries — including the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, New Zealand, or South Korea — valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
Documents required:
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Valid visa/residence permit from an eligible country
- Return/onward ticket within 14 days
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of funds and (optional) travel insurance
The visa-on-arrival process typically takes 10 to 30 minutes at UAE airports.
When Indians don’t qualify:
Indian travellers without a valid visa or residency from the listed countries must apply for a tourist or visit visa through UAE airlines (Emirates, Etihad), licensed travel agencies, or GDRFA/ICP online portals. These are usually issued for 30 or 60 days within 2–5 working days.
Why this matters for Indian travellers
Indians are the largest expatriate community in the UAE, yet most still don’t qualify for visa-on-arrival entry. The updated rule now enables Indian professionals and frequent flyers with international visas to make spontaneous business or leisure trips with ease.
This change represents a step toward greater mobility and connectivity between India and the UAE, underscoring their strong cultural and economic ties.
