UAE Launches Visa-on-Arrival Policy for Indian Nationals

United Arab Emirates: In an attempt to increase tourism, the United Arab Emirates (UAE)has launched visa policies for Indian nationals. 
The UAE now includes Indians on the list of foreign nationals that can avail visa-on-arrival services. 

From February 13, 2025, Indian passport holders who possess valid residence permits, visas, or green cards from six additional countries (Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea) can now obtain a UAE visa upon arrival into the country. This includes popular entry points like Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central, making travel into the country far more convenient. 

This update to the list comes from an earlier policy expansion from 2024, wherein Indian nationals with valid tourist visas or residence permits from the United States, the United Kingdom, and European Union countries could avail access to visa-on-arrival services. This latest changes also include those with permits from the six additional countries, making it easier for Indian nationals to travel into the country. 

Under the new rules, travellers will not need to apply for a UAE visit visa in advance. Instead, they can claim their visa at their chosen point of entry, thereby removing the need for long waiting times and documentation checks. The change aims to encourage travel to the UAE, attracting tourism and business to further grow as an economic and cultural hub. 

The announcement was made by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security, which oversees immigration and border control policies in the UAE. This relaxation in visa policy is also expected to strengthen ties between India and the UAE, as Indian migrants make up a significant portion of the migrant community in the UAE. 

Along with the relaxation of rules for individuals, families of UAE residents will find it easier to travel to the country, therefore facilitating a rich exchange of culture and easier travel. For Indian nationals who don’t have valid residence permits or tourist visas from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea, there are still 11 alternative visit visa options available for entering the UAE.