Dubai’s emigration department has implemented stricter conditions for Dubai tourist visa applications. Travelers must now submit a copy of their return tickets and hotel booking paperwork with QR codes. Sources claim that travel agents have been directed to implement these new regulations to avoid application processing delays.
New Updates
According to the revised regulations, hotel reservation paperwork and return tickets must be uploaded to the immigration department’s website when submitting a Dubai tourist visa application. Previously, these documents were only needed upon request from airport officials, but they are now mandatory.
While visit visas can still be processed by trading companies, individuals, or families, applications for Dubai tourist visas can only be submitted through authorized travel agents. Nonetheless, both visa classifications are subject to the same documentary requirements.
Financial Evidence is Now Required
Additionally, visitors must demonstrate that they have enough money. For a two-month visa, applicants must have at least AED 5,000 (about Rs 1.14 lakh) in their credit or debit accounts; for a three-month visa, they must have AED 3,000.
READ MORE: Stricter Requirements For UAE Visit Visas: Dh3,000 Funds And Return Tickets Mandatory
Options For Indians To Obtain a Visa Upon Arrival
If they have the necessary paperwork, Indian nationals can get a 14-day visa upon arrival and stay an extra 14 days. Documents that are accepted include:
- A US, UK, or EU residency permit or visitation visa.
- An American-issued green card.
Without these documents, travelers must apply for a visa in advance of their journey via approved channels like:
- Airlines such as Air Arabia, Etihad Airways, FlyDubai, and Emirates.
- Hotels or travel agencies where reservations are made.
- Friends or family living in the UAE can pay for their trip.
Types of Tourist Visas
Dubai provides a range of tourist visas to meet various travel requirements. Among the options are:
- Tourist visas for a single entry (valid for 30 or 60 days).
- Tourist visas with multiple entries (valid for 30 or 60 days).
- A tourist visa with numerous entries for five years.
- Visas for transit (valid for 48 or 96 hours).
- The possibility of obtaining a visa upon arrival depends on nationality or qualifying requirements, as resident permits in specific nations.
Documents Needed To Apply For a Visa
Although each type of visa has different requirements, typical documents include:
- A recent photo the size of a passport.
- A passport that is good for at least half a year.
- In the UAE, health insurance is accepted.
- A travel ticket that displays subsequent or repeat trips.
- A copy of the residence permit for residents of the GCC.
- Proof of residency, visitation, or arrival visas from the USA, UK, or EU are required for Indians.
How To Submit A Visa Application
The direct application portal is the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website. Authorized channels include
- Tour companies or travel agencies.
- Hotels and airlines with approval.
- It takes about 48 hours to process a visa.
Visa Charges
Tourist visa fees for Dubai include:
- The cost of a 30-day visa is AED 300.
- For a 60-day visa, AED 500.
- Extra fees include knowledge dirham (AED 10), innovation dirham (AED 10), and VAT (5%).