The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has updated its visa-on-arrival policy for Indian passport holders, making travel easier for many. Indian nationals who have a valid visa, residence permit, or green card from six additional countries can now get a UAE visa upon arrival.
Previously, this option was only available to Indian nationals with valid visas or residence permits from the USA, UK, or European Union countries. Now, the UAE has expanded the list to include:
- Australia
- Canada
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- South Korea
This means Indian travelers who hold valid residency from these countries can enter the UAE without applying for a visa in advance. The visa will be issued upon arrival at all entry points, including Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central.
The change, effective from February 13, 2025, simplifies travel for thousands of Indian passport holders. It allows families to reunite more easily, encourages tourism, and makes business travel smoother. Given that a significant portion of the UAE’s expatriate community is Indian, this move is expected to boost visitor numbers significantly.
For those who do not hold valid permits from the eligible countries, the UAE still offers 11 different types of visit visas, including:
- Tourist visas
- Student visas
- Job-seeker visas
- Multi-entry visas
This latest update reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to make travel more accessible and convenient for Indian nationals, strengthening ties between the two regions.
