Dubai is one of the most glamorous, fashionable cities with ultra-modern facilities, architecture, style, and luxury. Who doesn’t know about the tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa? And to top it all off, it’s everyone’s favorite shopping destination.

Visiting Dubai is a dream come true for many! When it comes to exploring this city, start planning at least one month prior. The two most important things are a Dubai visa for Indians and travel insurance. Grab both and enjoy this lavish city!

Yes, Indian passport holders do need a visa to visit Dubai. 

However, Indians with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa do not require a separate Dubai (UAE) visa, they can enter Dubai (UAE) based on these countries’ visas directly upon landing by filling up a simple form and getting a visa on arrival, for up to two weeks.

Yes, Indian citizens with a normal passport can get a visa on arrival in Dubai (UAE) for up to 14 days if they hold a valid visa or residence permit from the USA, UK, or EU. This includes a USA visit visa, green card, or residence visa from the UK or EU, provided the document is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the UAE.

No, travel insurance is not a strict requirement for visiting Dubai, but it is something every savvy traveler should seriously consider. Imagine the cost of a medical emergency in a city renowned for luxury—hospital bills can pile up quickly. Travel insurance acts as your safety net, covering unforeseen medical expenses, trip interruptions, and even lost belongings, ensuring you're not left scrambling.

Indian citizens applying for a UAE visa must meet specific eligibility criteria, which can be categorized into three main areas:

1. Travel Record:

Applicants must have traveled to certain countries (such as the USA, UK, or Schengen countries) or have a valid visa for those countries in the last five years. Supporting documents include a completed visa application form, passport, flight ticket, and potentially an invitation letter.

2. Financial Records:

If not eligible based on travel history, applicants must provide proof of financial stability. This includes having an annual income exceeding INR 2 lakhs or maintaining investments of at least INR 5 lakhs in fixed deposits. Required documents are similar to those listed under travel records.

3. Invitation from Family Members:

Immediate family members can sponsor applicants. This category includes spouses and children under 21 or parents over 60. Documentation includes an invitation letter from the family member, along with other standard application requirements.

Additionally, newly married couples must provide marriage documentation. The selection of the visa category is based on the applicant's travel itinerary, and diplomatic passport holders must apply through the UAE Embassy.

Completed Visa Application Form:

You'll need to fill out the visa application form. 

Passport Copy:

Provide a copy of the first and last pages of your passport.

Passport-Sized Photograph:

A recent color photograph with specifications size 4.3 cms x 5.5 cms, preferably a white background and matt finish.

Confirmed Return Flight Tickets:

Proof of your return flight.

Accommodation Proof:

Hotel reservation or other accommodation details.

Financial Proof:

You may be asked to provide proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements.

By following this guide, you can efficiently apply for a Dubai visa from India through VFS Global, ensuring a smooth experience throughout the process.

Identify Dubai Visa Type for Indians:

Before starting the application process, choose the appropriate visa based on your travel purpose. Options include the 30-day Tourist Visa, 96-hour Transit Visa, or 90-day Visit Visa. Ensure the visa type aligns with your stay and activities in Dubai.

Begin the Application for Dubai Visa from India:

Download and fill out the visa application form for Indians and ensure all details are correct.

Visit Your Nearest Dubai Visa Application Centre:

On the appointment date, visit the VFS center with your documents, passport, and any additional materials like an NOC (No Objection Certificate) if required. Submit your application for processing.

Pay Dubai Visa Fees for Indians at the Visa Application Centre:

Payments can be made through credit/debit cards, cash, or demand drafts as per the accepted modes at the center.

Track Your Application for Dubai UAE Visa:

Once submitted, track your visa status online via the VFS Global tracking tool. The visa is typically processed within 3-4 working days, but express processing options are also available.

The processing time for a Dubai UAE Tourist Visa for Indian citizens is approximately 3 to 4 working days. However, this is subject to immigration approval and the completeness of the application.

Additionally, Express Visa services are available, where visas are processed on a priority basis within 48 hours​.

• Avoid carrying restricted items like certain books, videotapes, etc.

• Always keep a copy or original of your documents while roaming.

• Note and remember all emergency numbers.

• Be aware of Dubai's local rules and follow them.

• Respect the local culture and environment, and be mindful of the impact of over-tourism on the destination.

If your Dubai visa application is rejected, you will typically be informed by the UAE immigration authorities or through your consulate. The rejection letter will outline the specific reasons, which can range from incomplete documentation to security concerns or previous visa-related issues. 

Although no refunds are provided for rejected visa applications, any security deposit you paid may be refunded within a few working days.

To avoid having your Dubai visa application rejected, it’s important to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here are a few tips:

1. Double-check your details:

Make sure there are no typos in names, passport numbers, or dates.

2. Submit proper documentation:

Incomplete or incorrect documents are common reasons for rejection. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and that all required documents (such as financial proof or invitation letters) are accurate.

3. Resolve any past visa issues:

If you previously applied for a visa and did not use it, or if you have a pending UAE residence visa, address these issues before reapplying.

4. Meet health and security standards:

If applying for long-term visas (like a residence visa), ensure you pass the required health tests and have no criminal records.

Yes, it is possible to extend your Dubai tourist visa while you are in the country. Short-term tourist visas can typically be extended twice, each for an additional 30 days. 

You must apply for the extension before your current visa expires, either through your travel agent or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website. Be aware that overstay penalties apply if you fail to extend your visa in time.

It is mandatory to have travel insurance to enter Dubai UAE. The UAE government has passed a visa regulation requiring all UAE tourists to have mandatory valid medical insurance at the time of application for a visa to the UAE, and external health insurance is not accepted.

Medical expenses in Dubai are high like its skyscrapers, so if you want someone to have your back, secure your trip with Dubai travel insurance that will provide coverage for all medical emergencies as well as other circumstances such as flight delays, loss of passport, personal liability bonds, loss of luggage, etc.

Travel insurance can give you safety in all such situations:

• Personal Accident

• Unexpected Medical Expenses

• Will cover for you in case of a loss or delay of your checked-in luggage

• If you need any medical assistance, it will not dig into your pocket

• Delayed Flights or Cancelled Flights due to any reason will be taken care of

Dubai boasts of luxurious, mesmerizing places and a grand lifestyle. Go ahead, plan that trip, and explore the United Arab Emirates, and yes, don’t forget to shop! Happy Travelling!