UAE Expands Visa-on-Arrival Eligibility for Indian Passport Holders

Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to offer visa-on-arrival facilities to eligible Indian passport holders, with the program now covering a wider range of foreign visas and residence permits. However, the facility is available only to travelers who meet specific eligibility requirements.

Under the UAE’s visa-on-arrival policy, all travelers must hold a passport that remains valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the Emirates.

The UAE has divided the program into two categories: 14-day and 60-day visa-on-arrival options.

14-Day Visa on Arrival

Indian citizens holding a valid ordinary passport are eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival if they also possess a valid visa or residence permit for the United States, the United Kingdom, or any European Union country, with at least six months of remaining validity.

The UAE has expanded the scheme to include Indian travelers holding valid visas or residence permits issued by Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea.

The 14-day single-entry visa costs AED 100 (approximately US$27 or INR 2,300) and may be extended once for an additional 14 days upon payment of AED 250.

60-Day Visa on Arrival

Indian passport holders who possess a U.S. Green Card or a valid residence permit issued by the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea are eligible to obtain a 60-day single-entry tourist visa upon arrival at UAE airports.

The fee for the 60-day visa is AED 250 (approximately US$68 or INR 5,700). Unlike the 14-day visa, this visa cannot be extended.

GCC Residence Permit Holders Not Eligible

The report also clarifies that Indian nationals holding standard residence permits issued by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman—are not eligible for the UAE’s visa-on-arrival facility.

Such travelers must apply for a UAE e-visa before departure if they wish to visit the Emirates.