Indian nationals with valid visas or residence permits from six new countries as well as visitors with Green Cards now qualify for visa-on-arrival entry in the UAE. Indian passport holders now have access to greater opportunities for visa-on-arrival entry at UAE points of entry because of this expansion.
Under the latest directive from the Arab nation, Indian citizens holding valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada will now be granted access to the visa-on-arrival service in the UAE. Previously, this policy was already in effect for Indian nationals with valid documentation from the United States, European Union member states, and the United Kingdom. The decision has been put into effect starting February 13, 2025.
What are the eligibility criteria?
To qualify for the program, Indian nationals must adhere to the requirements set forth by the UAE, which include possessing a valid ordinary passport with at least six months of validity from the date of arrival.The requirement for entry into UAE includes having a valid visa or residence permit or Green Card from among the specified countries.
Individuals must pay their visa fee after checking in at UAE immigration control points when these stipulations are in place.
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Visa fees
The UAE sets three visa categories for Indian travelers with small associated costs. For a 4-day visa, travelers will be required to pay AED100, while for a 14-day extension, the fee will be AED250. There is also a 60-day visa available for which the fee is AED250.
Motive behind the initiative
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director general of UAE’s Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), stated that the decision to provide visas on arrival to Indian nationals from select countries aligns with the long-term strategic partnership between Abu Dhabi and New Delhi.
The initiative seeks to ease travel for Indian citizens, offering them and their families new avenues to explore life, residency, and employment opportunities in the UAE, as reported by Gulf News.
Furthermore, this initiative allows Indians to experience the UAE’s world-class tourism, economic landscape, and vibrant business environment while also attracting top global talent and entrepreneurs—further reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global financial, tourism, and economic hub, according to ICP.
