If you’re travelling from the UAE to India, there is an important new requirement you need to complete before your journey. The Government of India has introduced Air Suvidha 2.0, an online health declaration that is now mandatory for all international passengers arriving in India, regardless of nationality or departure city. The updated system was…
The India e-OCI Card has been officially launched by the Government of India, making it easier for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders to carry and access their OCI credentials digitally. The new electronic version allows users to store their OCI card securely on a smartphone and present it during international travel, reducing paperwork while…
Indian Passport Fees in UAE have officially increased from July 1, 2026, following a revision announced by the Government of India. The updated fee structure applies to all passport services offered through the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General of India in Dubai, and all Indian Consular Application Centres (ICACs) across the…
Arjun Abhinav Patwardhan, just 12 years old, has earned the prestigious Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Grand Honors Award after scoring an outstanding 750 out of 800 in SAT Maths. The Abu Dhabi student achieved a total SAT score of 1290 while competing against students typically aged 16 and above. Even more impressive,…
India’s recent increase in gold import duty has once again made buying gold in the UAE more attractive for Indian travellers and NRIs. However, travellers carrying gold coins or bars into India must follow customs regulations and declaration rules. On May 13, the Indian government increased import duty on gold, silver, and precious metals from…
Reaching the end of a job contract in the UAE can be stressful, especially when it comes to understanding your final settlement and end-of-service (EOS) gratuity. Many employees are unsure about how gratuity is calculated, what affects the amount, and what rights they have if payments are delayed. Under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law…
In a major shift for Indian expatriates in the UAE, Alhind Tours & Travels Pvt Ltd has been awarded the new contract to manage outsourced Indian consular services, replacing long-time operator BLS International. The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi confirmed the development in an official notice dated April 20, 2026, following a competitive tender…
The OCI Fees 2026 (Overseas Citizen of India) update brings revised charges for applicants, especially those applying from the UAE. Effective April 1, 2026, the new fee structure covers OCI application, reissue, and update costs, with amounts payable in AED or equivalent local currency depending on where the application is submitted. OCI Application Fees Under…
The e-Arrival Card is a digital disembarkation form introduced by the Government of India for foreign passport holders and OCI cardholders. It replaces the traditional paper form that passengers previously filled out during flights or upon arrival. This pre-arrival requirement is designed to ensure a smoother entry process, offering faster immigration clearance, reduced waiting time,…
The Government of India has announced a temporary relaxation in pet import rules to help Indian citizens returning from the conflict-affected Middle East bring their pets back home. The decision was issued through an official memorandum dated 12 March 2026 by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The move is intended to support…
Understanding NRI UAE property rules is essential before investing abroad, especially when it involves paying deposits or assisting friends and relatives. Under India’s Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), certain cross-border payments are strictly regulated, and violations can lead to legal scrutiny and penalties. This article explains what NRIs can and cannot do, the risks involved,…
Kapil Sharma has added a new chapter to his growing hospitality journey — this time in Dubai. The beloved Indian comedian has officially opened Kap’s Café Dubai, bringing his trademark warmth, humour and love for comfort to the city’s ever-evolving café scene. The cafe is located in Al Kifaf – Dubai and is open Monday…