Is Dubai Visa Free for Indian?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a trip to Dubai and wondering whether you need a visa as an Indian passport holder? Well, the answer is no, Dubai is not entirely visa-free for Indian nationals. However, there are certain exemptions and guidelines that you need to know before planning your travel.

Visa Exemptions:

  • If you have a valid United States of America (USA) visa or a Green Card, then you can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days.
  • If you have a residence permit issued by the UK or European Union (EU), then you can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days.
  • If you have a normal passport with at least six months validity and confirmed onward ticket, then you can obtain a 96-hour transit visa.

Types of UAE Visa:
If you do not qualify for any of the exemptions mentioned above, then there are various types of visas that you can apply for depending on the purpose of your visit. These include:

  • Tourist Visa: This type of visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days.
  • Visit Visa: This type of visa is valid for 90 days and is non-extendable. It is suitable if you plan to visit friends or family in Dubai.
  • Transit Visa: As mentioned earlier, this type of visa is valid for 96 hours and allows passengers to leave the airport during long layovers or connections in Dubai.

How to Apply for UAE Visa:
To apply for a UAE visa, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official website of General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
  2. Choose the type of visa you require and fill in the application form.
  3. Upload the required documents such as passport copy, photograph, and flight itinerary.
  4. Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
  5. Once your visa is approved, it will be sent to your email address.

Tips for a Hassle-free Visa Application:

  • Apply for your UAE visa at least 2-3 weeks prior to your departure date to avoid any last-minute complications.
  • Make sure you have all the necessary documents before applying for a visa.
  • If you are travelling with family or friends, apply for all visas together to avoid discrepancies in travel dates or other information.

In Conclusion:

Dubai is not entirely visa-free for Indian nationals. However, if you meet certain exemptions such as having a valid USA visa or UK/EU residence permit, then you can obtain a UAE visa on arrival.

Alternatively, there are various types of visas that you can apply for depending on the purpose of your visit. Make sure you follow all guidelines and apply for visas well in advance to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.