dubai visa

UAE Visa for Indians: Complete 2025 Guide

Reviewed by: Professional Visa Consultants team of BTW Visas (UAE Visa Experts)

Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates? Whether you're visiting Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa, exploring Abu Dhabi's cultural landmarks, or conducting business in Sharjah, understanding UAE visa requirements for Indian citizens is crucial for a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a UAE visa in 2025, including the latest visa-on-arrival expansion announced in February 2025.

1. Introduction

2. Types of UAE Visas for Indians

Quick Answer:

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to enter the UAE. However, eligible Indian passport holders can now obtain a visa on arrival at UAE airports if they meet specific criteria. Those who don't qualify for visa-on-arrival must apply for an e-visa or tourist visa before traveling.

Latest Update (February 2025)

The UAE expanded its visa-on-arrival program for Indian nationals on February 13, 2025, adding six new qualifying countries to the eligibility list. This makes UAE travel significantly easier for thousands of Indian professionals and students living abroad.

  1. UAE Visa on Arrival for Indians (2025 Update)

Who is Eligible for UAE Visa on Arrival?

Since January 7, 2024, eligible Indian citizens with an ordinary passport (valid for at least 6 months) can obtain a single-entry, 14-day visa on arrival at any UAE entry point.

Eligibility Criteria (Updated February 2025)

Indian passport holders qualify for visa-on-arrival if they hold any one of the following:

Original Qualifying Countries:

  • ✅ Valid US visa (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ US Green Card (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ UK residence permit (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ EU residence permit from any member state (minimum 6 months validity)

 

New Additions (Effective February 13, 2025):

  • ✅ Australia residence permit (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ Canada residence permit (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ Japan residence permit (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ New Zealand residence permit (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ Republic of Korea (South Korea) residence permit (minimum 6 months validity)
  • ✅ Singapore residence permit (minimum 6 months validity)

Visa on Arrival Details

Feature

Details

Visa Type

Single-entry, 14-day visa

Fee

USD 63 (approximately ₹5,250) or AED 231

Validity

14 days from date of entry

Extension

One-time extension for additional 14 days (AED 250 / ₹5,500)

Processing

Instant at immigration counter

Passport Validity

Minimum 6 months from date of entry

 

Important Notes for Visa on Arrival

  1. All documents must be valid for at least 6 months from your expected arrival date in the UAE
  2. Confirm with your airline before departure that you meet visa-on-arrival requirements
  3. Carry proof of qualifying visa/residence permit (physical card or digital copy)
  4. Return ticket and hotel booking may be requested at immigration
  5. Extension must be applied within the UAE through immigration offices

Who Does NOT Qualify for Visa on Arrival?

Indian citizens who do not hold any of the qualifying visas or residence permits mentioned above must apply for a UAE visa in advance through:

  • Sponsor in UAE (family member, hotel, or company)
  • Airlines (Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia)
  • Travel agents and visa service providers
  • Online e-visa platforms

2. Types of UAE Visas for Indian Citizens

The UAE offers multiple visa categories based on your purpose of visit and duration of stay. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:

A. Tourist Visas

1. 48-Hour Transit Visa

Best for: Quick stopovers or short business meetings

Feature

Details

Duration

48 hours from arrival

Validity Before Entry

30 days from issue date

Cost

USD 10 (₹830) + VAT

Extension

Non-extendable

Entry Type

Single entry

 

Ideal Use Cases:

  • Airport layovers with city exploration
  • Quick business meetings
  • Transit passengers wanting to see Dubai

2. 96-Hour Transit Visa

Best for: Weekend trips or short vacations

Feature

Details

Duration

96 hours (4 days) from arrival

Validity Before Entry

30 days from issue date

Cost

USD 49 (₹4,100) or ₹3,955 + VAT

Extension

Non-extendable

Entry Type

Single entry

 

Ideal Use Cases:

  • Long weekend getaways
  • Short business trips
  • Stopover tourism

3. 30-Day Tourist Visa (Single Entry)

Most Popular Option for Indian Tourists

Feature

Details

Duration

30 days from arrival date

Validity Before Entry

60 days from issue date

Cost

USD 90 (₹7,500) or ₹7,105 + VAT

Extension

Yes - USD 230 (₹19,000) for 30 days

Entry Type

Single entry

 

Ideal Use Cases:

  • Family vacations
  • Tourism and sightseeing
  • Visiting friends and relatives
  • Short-term medical treatment

4. 30-Day Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)

Best for: Frequent travelers

Feature

Details

Duration

30 days from first entry

Validity Before Entry

60 days from issue date

Cost

USD 136 (₹11,300) + VAT

Extension

Yes - USD 230 (₹19,000) for 30 days

Entry Type

Multiple entries within validity

 

Ideal Use Cases:

  • Business travelers with multiple trips
  • Tourists planning to visit neighboring countries
  • Flexible travel plans

5. 60-Day Tourist Visa (Single Entry)

Best for: Extended stays

Feature

Details

Duration

60 days from arrival date

Validity Before Entry

60 days from issue date

Cost

USD 177 (₹14,700) or AED 650 + VAT

Extension

Yes - USD 230 (₹19,000) for 30 days

Entry Type

Single entry

 

Ideal Use Cases:

  • Long vacations
  • Extended family visits
  • Medical treatment requiring longer stay
  • Business training programs

6. 60-Day Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)

Best for: Frequent long-stay travelers

Feature

Details

Duration

60 days from first entry

Validity Before Entry

60 days from issue date

Cost

USD 231 (₹19,200) + VAT

Extension

Yes - USD 230 (₹19,000) for 30 days

Entry Type

Multiple entries within validity

 

7. 90-Day Visit Visa

Best for: Very long stays

Feature

Details

Duration

90 days (single entry)

Validity Before Entry

58 days from issue date

Cost

Varies by sponsor (₹7,000-₹10,000)

Extension

Yes - can be extended twice for 30 days each (AED 850 per extension)

Entry Type

Single entry

 

Ideal Use Cases:

  • Extended business training
  • Long-term medical treatment
  • Prolonged family visits
  • Temporary work assignments

B. Business Visa

For: Business meetings, conferences, and corporate visits

Feature

Details

Duration

30 or 60 days

Validity

Up to 1 year or 5 years (multiple entry)

Cost

AED 445 (₹9,800) for 1 year; AED 920 (₹20,300) for 5 years

Sponsor Required

Yes - UAE company or business partner

 

Required Documents:

  • Business invitation letter from UAE company
  • Company trade license copy
  • Proof of business relationship
  • Hotel booking or accommodation proof

C. Transit Visa

For: Passengers transiting through UAE airports

Feature

Details

Duration

48 or 96 hours

Issued By

Airlines (Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia)

Cost

USD 10-49 depending on duration

Requirements

Confirmed onward flight ticket

 

D. Special Visas

Work Visa

  • Sponsored by UAE employer
  • Requires employment contract and labor approval
  • Validity: 2-3 years (renewable)

Student Visa

  • Sponsored by UAE educational institution
  • Requires admission letter and fee payment proof
  • Validity: Duration of course

Family Visit Visa

  • Sponsored by UAE resident family member
  • Requires sponsor's Emirates ID and residence visa
  • Duration: 30-90 days

3. UAE Visa Fees and Costs for Indians (2025)

Understanding the complete cost breakdown helps you budget accurately for your UAE trip.

Standard Visa Fees (in Multiple Currencies)

Visa Type

USD

AED

INR (Approx.)

Visa on Arrival (14 days)

$63

231

₹5,250

48-Hour Transit

$10

37

₹830

96-Hour Transit

$49

180

₹4,100

30-Day Single Entry

$90

330

₹7,500

30-Day Multiple Entry

$136

500

₹11,300

60-Day Single Entry

$177

650

₹14,700

60-Day Multiple Entry

$231

850

₹19,200

90-Day Visit Visa

Varies

370+

₹7,000+

 

Additional Fees to Consider

Service

Cost

Visa Extension (30 days)

USD 230 / AED 850 / ₹19,000

Express Processing (36 hours)

Additional ₹2,000-₹3,000

VFS Service Fee

₹1,500-₹2,500

Travel Agent Service Fee

₹1,000-₹5,000

Knowledge Dirham Fee

AED 10 (₹220)

VAT (5%)

5% of visa fee

Total Cost Estimation

Example: 30-Day Tourist Visa Through VFS

  • Base visa fee: ₹7,105
  • VFS service fee: ₹2,000
  • VAT (5%): ₹355
  • Total: ₹9,460

 

Example: 60-Day Tourist Visa Through Travel Agent

  • Base visa fee: ₹14,700
  • Agent service fee: ₹3,000
  • Processing charges: ₹500
  • Total: ₹18,200

 

Money-Saving Tips

  1. Apply directly through official channels (GDRFA, ICP) to avoid agent fees
  2. Book during off-peak season for potential discounts
  3. Check airline packages - Emirates and Etihad often bundle visa with tickets
  4. Group applications may get discounted rates from some agents
  5. Avoid last-minute applications to skip express processing fees

4. Required Documents for UAE Visa

Having the correct documents ready ensures smooth visa processing. Here's a comprehensive checklist.

Essential Documents (All Visa Types)

1. Passport

  • Original passport with minimum 6 months validity from date of entry
  • Passport issued less than 10 years ago
  • At least 2 blank pages for stamps
  • Scanned copy: First page (with photo) and last two pages
  • Format: Color scan, JPEG, minimum 740x1024 pixels
  • File size: Less than 1 MB

2. Photograph

  • Specifications:
    • Recent photograph (taken within last 6 months)
    • Size: 35mm x 45mm (passport size)
    • Background: White or light-colored
    • Face clearly visible, no glasses
    • 80% face coverage
    • No headwear (except religious reasons)
  • Format: JPEG, color
  • File size: Less than 500 KB

3. Visa Application Form

  • Completely filled online form
  • All fields accurate and matching passport
  • No spelling errors
  • Signed digitally or physically

Additional Documents Based on Eligibility

For Visa on Arrival Applicants

  • Valid US visa / Green Card (copy)
  • UK residence permit (copy)
  • EU residence permit (copy)
  • Australia/Canada/Japan/New Zealand/Korea/Singapore residence permit (copy)
  • All documents must have 6+ months validity
  • Return flight ticket
  • Hotel booking confirmation

For Tourist Visa Applicants

Financial Documents (One of the following):

Criteria I - Travel Record:

  • Copies of previous visas to Schengen countries, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan
  • Stamped passport pages showing international travel

 

Criteria II - Financial Records (if no travel record):

  • Last 2 years Form 16, OR
  • Last 2 years Income Tax Returns with minimum gross income of ₹2 lakhs per annum, OR
  • Fixed deposits of ₹5 lakhs or above in banks or post office
  • Bank statements for last 6 months showing regular transactions

 

Additional Documents:

  • Confirmed return flight tickets
  • Hotel booking confirmation for entire stay
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Cover letter explaining purpose of visit

For Business Visa Applicants

  • Business invitation letter from UAE company
  • UAE company's trade license copy
  • Letter from Indian company (on letterhead)
  • Business card
  • Previous business visa copies (if any)
  • Hotel booking or accommodation proof
  • Conference/event registration (if applicable)

For Family Visit Visa Applicants

  • Sponsor's Emirates ID copy
  • Sponsor's residence visa copy
  • Sponsor's passport copy
  • Relationship proof (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
  • Sponsor's salary certificate
  • Sponsor's bank statements (last 3 months)
  • Tenancy contract or accommodation proof

For Students

  • University admission letter
  • Fee payment receipt
  • Sponsor's financial documents
  • Educational certificates
  • No objection certificate from parents

Document Checklist by Visa Type

Visa Type

Required Documents

Visa on Arrival

Passport + Qualifying visa/permit + Return ticket + Hotel booking

Tourist (30/60 days)

Passport + Photo + Financial proof + Flight tickets + Hotel booking

Business

Passport + Photo + Invitation letter + Company documents + Hotel booking

Family Visit

Passport + Photo + Sponsor documents + Relationship proof

Transit

Passport + Onward flight ticket + Visa for final destination (if required)

 

Document Preparation Tips

  1. Scan Quality: Use high-resolution scanner (300 DPI minimum)
  2. File Format: JPEG or PDF as specified
  3. File Naming: Use clear names (e.g., "Passport_FirstPage_RajeshKumar.jpg")
  4. Color: All documents in color, not black and white
  5. Clarity: Ensure all text is readable
  6. Cropping: Crop properly around document edges
  7. Orientation: Correct orientation (not upside down or sideways)
  8. Completeness: Don't miss any pages
  9. Validity: Check expiry dates before uploading
  10. Backup: Keep digital and physical copies

5. Processing Time and Validity

  • Understanding processing times helps you plan your application timeline effectively.

    Standard Processing Times

    Visa Type

    Processing Time

    Validity Before Entry

    Stay Duration

    Visa on Arrival

    Instant at airport

    N/A

    14 days

    48-Hour Transit

    2-3 working days

    30 days from issue

    48 hours

    96-Hour Transit

    2-3 working days

    30 days from issue

    96 hours

    30-Day Tourist

    3-4 working days

    60 days from issue

    30 days from entry

    60-Day Tourist

    3-4 working days

    60 days from issue

    60 days from entry

    90-Day Visit

    4-5 working days

    58 days from issue

    90 days from entry

    Business Visa

    3-5 working days

    As per visa type

    As per visa type

     

    Express Processing

    Available for: Most tourist visa types Processing Time: 24-36 hours Additional Cost: ₹2,000-₹3,000 When to Use: Urgent travel, last-minute bookings

    Factors Affecting Processing Time

    1. Application Volume: Higher during peak season (October-March)
    2. Document Quality: Incomplete or unclear documents cause delays
    3. Verification Requirements: Additional checks for certain profiles
    4. Public Holidays: UAE and Indian holidays affect processing
    5. Application Method: Direct applications may be faster than through agents

    When to Apply

    Recommended Timeline:

    • Tourist Visa: Apply 2-3 weeks before travel
    • Business Visa: Apply 3-4 weeks before travel
    • Peak Season Travel: Apply 4-6 weeks in advance
    • Last-Minute Travel: Use express processing or visa on arrival (if eligible)

     

    Important Dates to Avoid:

    • UAE National Day (December 2-3)
    • Eid holidays (dates vary)
    • New Year period (December 28 - January 5)
    • Indian public holidays

    Visa Validity Explained

    Validity Before Entry: Time period within which you must enter UAE after visa is issued

    Example:

    • Visa issued: January 1
    • Validity before entry: 60 days
    • Must enter UAE by: March 1

     

    Stay Duration: Time you can remain in UAE after entry

    Example:

    • Entry date: February 15
    • Stay duration: 30 days
    • Must exit by: March 16

    Grace Period

    The UAE offers a 10-day grace period after visa expiry for:

    • Arranging departure
    • Extending visa
    • Changing visa status

    Important: Overstaying beyond grace period results in fines (AED 50 per day)

6. Visa Extension Options

  • Need to stay longer in the UAE? Here's everything about extending your visa.

    Which Visas Can Be Extended?

    ✅ Extendable:

    • 30-day tourist visa (single/multiple entry)
    • 60-day tourist visa (single/multiple entry)
    • 90-day visit visa
    • Family visit visa

    ❌ Non-Extendable:

    • 48-hour transit visa
    • 96-hour transit visa
    • Visa on arrival (14 days) - can be extended once only

    Extension Details

    Original Visa

    Extension Duration

    Extension Fee

    Number of Extensions

    14-Day Visa on Arrival

    14 days

    AED 250 (₹5,500)

    Once only

    30-Day Tourist

    30 days

    AED 850 (₹19,000)

    Up to 2 times

    60-Day Tourist

    30 days

    AED 850 (₹19,000)

    Once

    90-Day Visit

    30 days

    AED 850 (₹19,000)

    Twice (total 150 days)


    How to Extend Your UAE Visa

    Method 1: Through Typing Centers (Most Common)

    Step-by-Step Process:

    1. Visit Typing Center
      • Find registered typing center near you
      • Carry original passport and visa copy
      • Visit before visa expiry
    2. Submit Documents
      • Original passport
      • Current visa copy
      • Passport-size photograph
      • Hotel booking for extended period
    3. Pay Fees
      • Extension fee: AED 850
      • Typing center service fee: AED 50-100
      • Total: Approximately AED 900-950 (₹19,500-₹20,500)
    4. Processing
      • Application submitted to immigration
      • Processing time: Same day to 2 working days
      • Receive SMS confirmation
    5. Collect Passport
      • Return to typing center
      • Collect passport with extension stamp
      • Verify new exit date

    Method 2: Online Through GDRFA/ICP

    For Dubai:

    1. Visit GDRFA website or use Dubai Now app
    2. Login to your account
    3. Select "Visa Extension" service
    4. Enter visa details
    5. Upload required documents
    6. Pay online
    7. Receive approval via email

    For Other Emirates:

    • Use respective emirate's immigration portal
    • Similar online process

    Method 3: Through Your Hotel

    Many hotels offer visa extension services:

    1. Contact hotel reception
    2. Provide passport and visa details
    3. Hotel processes extension
    4. Pay hotel service fee + visa fee
    5. Collect passport with extension

    Important Extension Rules

    1. Apply Before Expiry: Must apply before current visa expires
    2. Grace Period: 10-day grace period available after expiry
    3. Overstay Fines: AED 50 per day after grace period
    4. Maximum Stay: Total stay cannot exceed 180 days in most cases
    5. Exit Required: After maximum extensions, must exit UAE

    Extension Requirements

    Documents Needed:

    • Original passport
    • Current visa copy
    • Passport-size photograph
    • Hotel booking confirmation for extended period
    • Sufficient funds proof (bank statement)
    • Return flight ticket (flexible/changeable)

    Financial Requirements:

    • Must show ability to support extended stay
    • Bank statement with adequate balance
    • Credit card or cash proof

    Extension Costs Breakdown

    Example: Extending 30-Day Tourist Visa

    • Extension fee: AED 850 (₹19,000)
    • Typing center fee: AED 75 (₹1,650)
    • Service charges: AED 25 (₹550)
    • Total: AED 950 (₹21,200)

    Alternative to Extension: Visa Run

    If extension is not possible or too expensive:

    Visa Run Option:

    • Exit UAE before visa expiry
    • Visit nearby country (Oman, Bahrain, Qatar)
    • Stay 1-2 days
    • Return to UAE with new visa
    • Cost: Flight + new visa (may be cheaper than extension)

    Popular Visa Run Destinations:

    • Muscat, Oman (2-hour drive from Dubai)
    • Manama, Bahrain (1-hour flight)
    • Doha, Qatar (1-hour flight)

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Learn from others' mistakes to ensure smooth visa processing.

    Application Mistakes

    1. Passport Validity Issues

    ❌ Mistake: Applying with passport valid for less than 6 months ✅ Solution: Renew passport before applying if validity is less than 6 months from travel date

    2. Incorrect Personal Details

    ❌ Mistake: Spelling errors in name, wrong date of birth, incorrect passport number ✅ Solution: Double-check all details match passport exactly; even minor differences cause rejection

    3. Poor Quality Documents

    ❌ Mistake: Blurry scans, incomplete pages, wrong file format ✅ Solution: Use high-resolution scanner, ensure all text is readable, follow format guidelines

    4. Insufficient Financial Proof

    ❌ Mistake: Not providing adequate financial documents or showing insufficient funds ✅ Solution: Submit proper ITR, Form 16, or FD certificates; ensure bank balance is adequate

    5. Missing Documents

    ❌ Mistake: Forgetting to upload required documents ✅ Solution: Use checklist, verify all documents before submission

    Timing Mistakes

    6. Last-Minute Applications

    ❌ Mistake: Applying just days before travel ✅ Solution: Apply at least 2-3 weeks in advance; use express processing only if necessary

    7. Applying During Peak Season

    ❌ Mistake: Not accounting for longer processing during holidays ✅ Solution: Apply 4-6 weeks in advance during October-March and holiday periods

    8. Ignoring Visa Validity

    ❌ Mistake: Not entering UAE within validity period before entry ✅ Solution: Plan travel dates carefully; enter UAE within 60 days of visa issue

    Travel Mistakes

    9. Not Carrying Printed Visa

    ❌ Mistake: Relying only on digital copy ✅ Solution: Carry 2 printed copies of e-visa; airlines and immigration may require physical copy

    10. Insufficient Supporting Documents at Airport

    ❌ Mistake: Not carrying hotel booking, return ticket, or financial proof ✅ Solution: Carry all supporting documents even if visa is approved

    11. Overstaying Without Extension

    ❌ Mistake: Staying beyond visa expiry without extension ✅ Solution: Apply for extension before expiry or exit within grace period

    Financial Mistakes

    12. Using Unreliable Agents

    ❌ Mistake: Choosing agents based only on low price ✅ Solution: Use authorized agents, check reviews, verify credentials

    13. Not Understanding Total Costs

    ❌ Mistake: Budgeting only for visa fee, ignoring service charges ✅ Solution: Calculate total cost including all fees, service charges, and potential extension costs

    Documentation Mistakes

    14. Expired Qualifying Documents

    ❌ Mistake: Visa on arrival with US visa valid for less than 6 months ✅ Solution: Ensure all qualifying documents have 6+ months validity

    15. Wrong Visa Type

    ❌ Mistake: Applying for tourist visa when business visa is required ✅ Solution: Choose correct visa type based on actual purpose of visit

    Post-Approval Mistakes

    16. Not Verifying Visa Details

    ❌ Mistake: Not checking visa details after approval ✅ Solution: Verify all details on approved visa; report errors immediately

    17. Assuming Visa Guarantees Entry

    ❌ Mistake: Thinking visa approval means automatic entry ✅ Solution: Understand that final entry decision is at immigration officer's discretion

Key Takeaways

  • ✅ Essential Points to Remember

    1. Visa on Arrival Expansion (Feb 2025): Indians with residence permits from 6 new countries (Australia, Canada, Japan, NZ, Korea, Singapore) now qualify for visa on arrival
    2. Advance Planning: Apply 2-3 weeks before travel; 4-6 weeks during peak season (October-March)
    3. Passport Validity: Must have minimum 6 months validity from date of entry to UAE
    4. Cost Range: Tourist visas range from ₹7,500 (30-day) to ₹19,200 (60-day multiple entry) including service fees
    5. Processing Time: Standard 3-4 working days; express 24-36 hours available
    6. Extension Possible: Most tourist visas can be extended for 30 days at AED 850 (₹19,000)
    7. E-Visa System: No physical passport submission required; completely online process
    8. Multiple Application Channels: Apply through GDRFA, ICP, airlines, VFS, or travel agents
    9. Document Quality Matters: High-quality scans and complete documentation crucial for approval
    10. Grace Period: 10-day grace period after visa expiry; AED 50/day fine after that

Conclusion

    • Obtaining a UAE visa as an Indian citizen has become significantly easier with the February 2025 expansion of the visa-on-arrival program and streamlined e-visa processes. Whether you're planning a short weekend getaway to Dubai, an extended family vacation, or a business trip, understanding the visa requirements, costs, and application procedures ensures a smooth journey.
    • The key to successful visa approval lies in proper planning, accurate documentation, and choosing the right visa type for your purpose of visit. With processing times as short as 3-4 days and multiple convenient application channels, getting your UAE visa is now more accessible than ever.
    • Remember to apply well in advance, keep all documents ready, and verify all details before submission. The UAE continues to welcome Indian tourists and business travelers, making it one of the most visited destinations for Indians worldwide.
    • Safe travels and enjoy your UAE experience!

About This Guide

Last Updated: December 2, 2025

Sources:

  • UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs official announcements
  • GDRFA Dubai official portal
  • ICP Federal Authority official website
  • VFS Global UAE visa information
  • Emirates Airlines visa guidelines
  • Times of India UAE visa updates
  • Official UAE government portal (u.ae)

 

Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official UAE government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Last Updated: December 2025

Content Accuracy: This comprehensive UAE visa guide for Indian travelers is meticulously compiled based on the latest official guidelines from UAE authorities (ICA, GDRFA), verified announcements from the UAE Embassy and VFS Global, and direct insights from accredited UAE tourism partners. It incorporates the most recent rule changes, fee structures, and real-time application experiences from Indian nationals who have successfully obtained visas in late 2024 and early 2025.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.

Common questions asked on UAE visa

General Questions

Q1: Do all Indian citizens need a visa for UAE? A: Yes, all Indian citizens need a visa to enter the UAE. However, eligible Indians with qualifying visas/residence permits from certain countries can get visa on arrival.

Q2: Can I get UAE visa on arrival as an Indian citizen? A: Yes, if you hold a valid US visa, Green Card, UK residence permit, EU residence permit, or residence permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, or Singapore (all with 6+ months validity).

Q3: How long does UAE visa processing take for Indians? A: Standard processing takes 3-4 working days. Express processing is available in 24-36 hours for additional fees.

Q4: What is the cost of UAE tourist visa for Indians? A: 30-day tourist visa costs approximately ₹7,500-₹9,500 (including service fees). 60-day visa costs ₹14,700-₹18,000.

Q5: Can I apply for UAE visa online? A: Yes, you can apply online through GDRFA, ICP portals, airline websites (Emirates, Air India), VFS Global, or authorized travel agents.

Visa on Arrival Questions

Q6: What documents do I need for UAE visa on arrival? A: Valid passport (6+ months), qualifying visa/residence permit (US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, NZ, Korea, Singapore), return flight ticket, and hotel booking.

Q7: How much does visa on arrival cost for Indians? A: USD 63 (approximately ₹5,250) or AED 231 at the airport immigration counter.

Q8: Can I extend my 14-day visa on arrival? A: Yes, you can extend it once for an additional 14 days by paying AED 250 (₹5,500).

Q9: Does Schengen visa qualify for UAE visa on arrival? A: Yes, any valid EU residence permit qualifies, which includes Schengen area countries.

Application Process Questions

Q10: Which is the best way to apply for UAE visa from India? A: For cost-effectiveness: Direct application through GDRFA/ICP. For convenience: Through airlines or VFS Global. For assistance: Through authorized travel agents.

Q11: Do I need to submit my passport for UAE e-visa? A: No, UAE e-visa is completely online. You don't need to submit your physical passport. Just upload scanned copies.

Q12: Can I apply for UAE visa without hotel booking? A: For tourist visa, hotel booking is required. Alternatively, you can provide sponsor details (family/friend in UAE) or book refundable hotel reservation.

Q13: What if my UAE visa application is rejected? A: Visa fees are generally non-refundable. You can reapply after addressing rejection reasons. Common reasons include incomplete documents, insufficient financial proof, or previous visa violations.

Validity and Extension Questions

Q14: How long is UAE tourist visa valid? A: 30-day and 60-day tourist visas are valid for 60 days from issue date (you must enter UAE within this period). After entry, you can stay for 30 or 60 days respectively.

Q15: Can I extend my UAE tourist visa? A: Yes, 30-day visa can be extended twice (30 days each time) for AED 850 per extension. 60-day visa can be extended once for 30 days.

Q16: What happens if I overstay my UAE visa? A: There's a 10-day grace period. After that, fines of AED 50 per day apply. Overstaying can affect future visa applications.

Q17: Can I work on a UAE tourist visa? A: No, tourist visas are strictly for tourism purposes. Working on tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and ban.

Travel and Entry Questions

Q18: Do I need travel insurance for UAE visa? A: While not mandatory for visa approval, travel insurance is highly recommended and may be requested at immigration.

Q19: Can I enter UAE multiple times on a single-entry visa? A: No, single-entry visa allows only one entry. For multiple entries, you need a multiple-entry visa.

Q20: What documents should I carry while traveling to UAE? A: Printed visa copy (2 copies), passport, return flight ticket, hotel booking confirmation, travel insurance, sufficient funds proof, and sponsor details (if applicable).

Q21: Can I travel to other emirates with Dubai visa? A: Yes, UAE visa allows travel to all seven emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah).

Special Situations

Q22: Can I get UAE visa if I have Pakistan stamp in passport? A: Yes, Pakistan stamp doesn't automatically disqualify you, but additional verification may be required.

Q23: Can unmarried couples travel together to UAE? A: Yes, but they should book separate hotel rooms or ensure hotel allows unmarried couples. UAE laws have been relaxed but it's better to be cautious.

Q24: Can I apply for UAE visa if I'm unemployed? A: Yes, but you need to show sufficient financial means through bank statements, FDs, or sponsor support.

Q25: Do children need separate UAE visa? A: Yes, each traveler including infants needs a separate visa. Children's visa fees are same as adults.

Business Visa Questions

Q26: What's the difference between tourist and business visa? A: Business visa requires invitation from UAE company and is for business activities. Tourist visa is for leisure and doesn't permit business activities.

Q27: Can I attend a conference on tourist visa? A: Technically, you should have a business visa for conferences. However, many attend on tourist visa without issues. Check with organizers.

Processing and Tracking

Q28: How can I track my UAE visa application? A: Use the reference number provided during application to track status on GDRFA/ICP website or through the platform you applied (airline, VFS, agent).

Q29: Will I get a physical visa sticker in passport? A: No, UAE issues e-visas. You'll receive a PDF via email which you need to print and carry.

Q30: Can I expedite my visa processing? A: Yes, express processing is available for most visa types at additional cost (₹2,000-₹3,000), reducing processing to 24-36 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Indians need a visa to enter the UAE?

Yes, with exceptions for those eligible for a Visa on Arrival.

How long does it take to process a UAE tourist visa?

Typically 3-5 working days, with an express option for 24 hours.



Can I extend my UAE tourist visa?

Yes, up to twice, with each extension valid for 30 days, for a fee.

Are there any restrictions on activities with the on-arrival visa?

Yes, the on-arrival visa is strictly for tourism purposes and does not permit visitors to engage in employment or business activities during their stay in the UAE.



What documents are required for the on-arrival visa?

Travelers must have a valid passport, confirmed return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for their stay in the UAE to apply for the on-arrival visa.

Can Indian citizens apply for a UAE visa online?

Yes, Indian citizens can apply for certain UAE visas online through the official UAE government portals.

How long does it take to process a UAE visa for Indian citizens?

The processing time for UAE visas for Indian citizens varies depending on the type of visa and specific circumstances but generally ranges from a few days to several weeks.

Is travel health insurance mandatory for UAE visa applications?

While travel health insurance is not always mandatory, having it can provide financial protection in case of medical emergencies during your stay in the UAE.

Can Indian citizens extend their UAE visas?

Yes, Indian citizens can extend their UAE visas under certain circumstances, such as for tourism, employment, or family visits, by following the designated visa extension procedures.

What should I do if my UAE visa application is rejected?

If your UAE visa application is rejected, carefully review the reasons provided and address any issues before reapplying. Seek guidance from the UAE embassy or consulate if needed.

 

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