Free online appointment system introduced to ensure uninterrupted consular services for Indian community
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have temporarily assumed direct responsibility for passport, visa and attestation services in the United Arab Emirates as part of a transition to a new outsourced service provider.
The move is aimed at ensuring that essential consular services continue without disruption for the large Indian community in the UAE. Indian missions have simultaneously launched a free online appointment system to help applicants schedule visits, reduce waiting times and improve crowd management during the transition period.
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Under the new arrangement, applicants can book appointments online for passport renewals, visa-related services and document attestation before visiting the embassy or consulate
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While online appointments are being encouraged, limited walk-in facilities remain available for people unable to secure a booking, subject to revised operating procedures
Indian authorities have advised applicants to arrive with complete documentation to avoid delays and have urged the community to rely only on official announcements for updates on service availability and procedures. Helplines continue to remain operational to assist applicants during the transition.
The temporary arrangement follows the conclusion of the previous outsourcing contract and precedes the full rollout of services through the newly appointed agency. Officials said the transition is intended to strengthen service delivery, improve efficiency and provide a smoother experience for Indian nationals living, working and travelling in the UAE.
The UAE is home to one of the world’s largest Indian expatriate populations, making passport, visa and attestation services among the busiest handled by Indian diplomatic missions abroad. Authorities have assured the community that every effort is being made to minimise inconvenience while the new system is fully implemented.
