Latest Rules for Applying Tourist Visa to Dubai for Indians
Planning to Apply for Dubai Tourist Visa Here’s What You Need to Know.
As one of the world’s most dynamic travel destinations, Dubai continues to attract millions of Indian tourists each year. Dubai attracts many travelers due to its famous buildings, such as the Burj Khalifa, luxury shopping, and exciting places to visit, as well as its delicious cuisine and many other attractions. It also offers excellent weather, a variety of fun activities, and a blend of modern and traditional culture. However, Recent updates to the UAE’s immigration policies have introduced more stringent visa regulations aimed at enhancing travel transparency and border security. For Indian travelers, understanding these changes is crucial to avoid delays and rejections during the visa process. From mandatory hotel bookings with QR codes to proof of financial capability, the 2025 visa framework demands more excellent preparation and documentation than ever before.
In this blog, we break down the latest Dubai tourist visa rules for Indian citizens, covering application channels, costs, and insider tips to help you navigate the process smoothly and confidently.
- Major changes in Dubai tourist visa rules for Indians
- Mandatory hotel booking and return ticket
- Eligibility for Visa-on-Arrival expansion to Dubai
- Authorized application channels
- Types of tourist visas available for Dubai
- Documents required for Dubai visa application
- Guide to Applying for a Tourist Visa for Dubai
- Dubai tourist Visa Fees and processing time
1. Mandatory Hotel Booking and Return Ticket
As of November 2024, the UAE’s Emigration Department has implemented very strict requirements for tourist visa applications. Travelers are now mandated to provide the following:
- Confirmed hotel bookings.
- Return flight tickets.
These documents must be uploaded during the visa application process. Previously, they were only required if requested by airport officers.
2. Eligibility for Visa-on-Arrival expansion to Dubai
Starting February 13, 2025, Indian nationals holding valid residence permits or visas from certain countries are eligible for a visa on arrival in the UAE. The expanded list includes:
- Canada
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Autralia
This builds upon the previous policy that allowed visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals with valid visas or residence permits from the USA, UK, or EU.
3. Authorized Application Channels
Applications for tourist visas must now be submitted through authorized channels:
- Travel agencies
- Airlines
- Hotels
While individuals or families can still process visit visas, they must adhere to the exact documentation requirements.
4. Types of Tourist Visas Available for Dubai
Dubai offers various tourist visa options to cater to different travel needs:
- 30-day single-entry visa
- 60-day single-entry visa
- 30-day multiple-entry visa
- 60-day multiple-entry visa
- 5-year multiple-entry visa(introduced in 2025)
- Transit visas(valid for 48 or 96 hours)
Each visa type has specific requirements and fees. It’s essential to choose the one that best fits your travel plans.
Documents required for Dubai visa application
While requirements may vary based on the visa type, standard documents include:
- Valid passport(with at least six months validity)
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Confirmed hotel booking
- Return flight ticket
- Financial proof(bank or credit/debit card statements)
- Health insurancevalid in the UAE
- For GCC residents: Copy of residence permit
For Indian nationals applying for a visa on arrival, proof of a valid residence or visit visa from an eligible country is required.
Guide to Applying for a Tourist Visa for Dubai
Applications can be made through:
- Authorized travel agencies
- Airlines(e.g., Emirates, FlyDubai, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia)
- Hotelswhere bookings are made
The visa processing time is typically 48 hours, but it’s advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
Dubai Tourist Visa Fees
The fees for Dubai tourist visas are as follows:
- 30-day single-entry visa: INR( 7390)
- 60-day single-entry visa: INR (12500)
Additional charges may apply, including VAT (5%), knowledge dirham (AED 10), and innovation dirham (AED 10).
Tips for a Smooth Visa Application
- Make sure all documents are complete and accurateto avoid delays.
- Apply through authorized channelsto meet the new requirements.
- Keep copies of all submitted documentsfor reference.
- Stay updated on any further changesto visa policies.
Conclusion
The UAE’s updated tourist visa rules for 2025 aim to streamline the application process and enhance security. By adhering to the new requirements and preparing the necessary documentation, Indian travelers can ensure a smooth visa application experience. Whether you are planning a short visit or considering a more extended stay, staying informed about the latest visa rules is crucial for a successful journey to Dubai.
Latest rules for applying tourist visa to dubai for indians
Confirmed hotel booking, return flight ticket, financial proof, and passport.
No, you must apply through authorized travel agents, airlines, or hotels.
30/60-day single or multiple-entry visas, 5-year multiple-entry visa, and transit visas.
Apply via approved travel agencies, UAE-based airlines, or booking hotels.
INR 7,390 for 30 days and INR 12,500 for 60 days, excluding extra charges.
Yes, if you hold a valid visa/residence permit from the US, UK, EU, or 6 approved countries.
Yes, especially the 5-year visa which allows 90-day stays, extendable once.
Typically 48 hours through authorized channels.
Not mandatory, but strongly recommended.
You’ll be fined AED 100 for the first day, then AED 200 per day after.
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