Dubai Visit Visa Rules Updates: Hotel Booking, Return Ticket Now Mandatory
Indian travelers planning a trip to Dubai will now face stricter visa application requirements. The Dubai Emigration Department has updated its guidelines, making it mandatory for applicants to upload hotel booking documents with QR codes and a copy of their return ticket on the Emigration Department’s website when applying for a tourist visa. These changes aim to streamline the visa process and ensure compliance.
Key Updates to Visa Application Process
- Mandatory Documentation
- Hotel bookings and return tickets are no longer optional and must be submitted during the application process.
- Applications must be made through authorized travel agencies, while visit visas can also be processed by trading companies, individuals, or families, with the same requirements.
- Financial Proof Requirement
- Applicants must now demonstrate sufficient financial resources.
- 5,000 Dirhams is required for a two-month visa, and 3,000 Dirhams for a three-month visa.
- Proof of financial resources must be provided through credit or debit card statements.
- Processing Delays
- Delays have been reported due to difficulties in fulfilling the new documentation requirements, adding a layer of complexity for travelers.
- Previously, these documents were only checked at the airport upon arrival.
Visa Options for Indian Passport Holders
Indian nationals have several options when applying for Dubai visas:
- Visa-on-Arrival:
- Available for a 14-day stay, extendable for another 14 days.
- Requires a passport valid for six months and a valid visa or residency permit from the USA, UK, or EU.
- Non-Extendable 60-Day Visa:
- Allows for a longer stay but cannot be extended.
- Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa:
- Designed for frequent travelers for business or personal purposes, encouraging stronger tourism and business ties between India and Dubai.
Changes for Other Countries
The updated regulations, already enforced for Pakistan and several African nations, are now extended to India. It remains unclear whether UAE expatriates applying for family visit visas will need to submit the same documentation.
These stricter requirements highlight the need for careful preparation when planning a trip to Dubai. Travelers should ensure all documentation is in order to avoid delays and complications.
