Planning a trip to Dubai and wondering about the visa process? If you’re an Indian passport holder, here’s some great news! Indians can now avail a Dubai visa on arrival, provided they meet certain conditions. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about Dubai visa on arrival for Indians, including eligibility, documents, process, fees, and FAQs.
✅ What is a Visa on Arrival?
A Visa on Arrival (VOA) allows travelers to get a visa after landing in a foreign country, instead of applying in advance. For Indians traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates), this facility has made the travel experience smoother and faster — especially for frequent flyers and tourists.
🛂 Dubai Visa on Arrival for Indians – Who is Eligible?
Indians can get a 14-day visa on arrival in Dubai if they hold a valid visa or residency permit from any of these countries:
- United States (US Visa)
- United Kingdom (UK Visa)
- Schengen Area
- European Union residency
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
✈️ Important Notes:
- The visa/residency permit must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- This visa can be extended once for another 14 days by paying an additional fee.
🗂️ Documents Required for Visa on Arrival in Dubai
To avail the Dubai visa on arrival for Indian passport holders, carry the following documents:
- Original Passport
- Valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Valid Visa or Residence Permit
- From US, UK, Schengen, etc.
- Also valid for minimum 6 months.
- Confirmed Return Flight Tickets
- Hotel Reservation / Proof of Accommodation
- Sufficient Funds / Credit Card
- To show proof of your ability to support yourself.
💰 Dubai Visa on Arrival Fees for Indians
Here’s a breakdown of the fees:
- Visa on Arrival Fee: AED 120 (approx. ₹2,700–₹2,900 INR)
- Extension Fee (optional): AED 250 (approx. ₹5,500 INR)
📝 Note: Fees may vary slightly depending on exchange rates and airport policies.
🛬 Where to Get Visa on Arrival in Dubai?
You can avail the visa on arrival at any international airport in the UAE, including:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
- Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)
After landing, go to the Immigration or Visa on Arrival counter, submit your documents, pay the fee, and get your visa stamped.
🕐 Processing Time
The Dubai Visa on Arrival process is quick and seamless. It usually takes:
- 15 to 30 minutes at the airport.
- In busy seasons, it may take slightly longer.
🧾 Extension of Visa on Arrival
You can extend your visa for another 14 days without exiting the country. Here’s how:
- Apply through:
- Amer Centers (in Dubai)
- GDRFA website
- Authorized travel agencies
- Documents required:
- Passport
- Original Visa
- Fee: AED 250 (₹5,500 INR approx.)
✅ Advantages of Dubai Visa on Arrival for Indians
- No need to apply in advance.
- Saves time and paperwork.
- Ideal for last-minute travelers.
- Extension available without leaving the UAE.
- Multiple UAE airports offer VOA facility.
❌ Who is NOT Eligible for Visa on Arrival?
If you do not hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen, etc., you are not eligible for a visa on arrival. In that case, you must:
- Apply for a Dubai Tourist Visa in advance.
- Choose from options: 14-day, 30-day, or 90-day tourist visas.
- Apply via travel agents, airlines (like Emirates), or UAE embassy.
🛫 How to Apply for a Dubai Tourist Visa (if not eligible for VOA)?
Here’s how Indians can apply for a Dubai tourist visa in advance:
- Choose a provider: VFS Global, MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, Emirates, etc.
- Upload documents:
- Passport
- Passport-sized photo
- Flight tickets
- Hotel booking
- Pay Visa Fee
- 14-day visa: ₹6,000–₹7,000
- Get eVisa on Email
📅 Dubai Visa on Arrival Validity
Type | Duration | Extension |
---|---|---|
Visa on Arrival | 14 days | Yes (14 more days) |
Tourist Visa | 14/30/90 days | Yes |
👨👩👧👦 Family or Group Travel – VOA for All?
If you are traveling with family, each individual must meet the eligibility criteria and have a valid visa (US/UK/Schengen etc.) to get the Dubai visa on arrival.
Children and minors also need:
- Valid passport
- Valid visa (or parent’s valid visa in some cases)
✍️ Tips Before You Travel to Dubai
- Double-check your visa validity before booking.
- Ensure your passport has blank pages.
- Carry hard copies and soft copies of your visa/residence permit.
- Book return flight tickets to avoid immigration issues.
- Respect UAE travel and conduct rules.
📌 Common Questions (FAQs)
❓ Is Dubai visa on arrival free for Indians?
No, it costs AED 120 for 14 days.
❓ Can I enter Dubai with US B1/B2 visa?
Yes, if it is valid for at least 6 more months.
❓ Can I work in Dubai with visa on arrival?
No, it’s strictly for tourism or short visits, not for employment.
❓ Can I get visa on arrival multiple times a year?
Yes, if your foreign visa remains valid and unused days are available.
✈️ Final Thoughts
The Dubai visa on arrival for Indians has simplified travel for thousands of Indian tourists and business travelers. If you hold a valid visa from the US, UK, Schengen, or similar nations, visiting Dubai is now faster and more convenient than ever. Just pack your bags, carry your documents, and enjoy the vibrant city of Dubai hassle-free!
Leave a Reply