Dubai has witnessed a substantial surge in Indian tourists, totaling at least two million visitors between January and October 2023, according to Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

For those planning a trip to Dubai in the near future, understanding the various visa options available is crucial.

There are several visa types to choose from, depending on the purpose and duration of your visit. The official tourism website of Dubai, visitdubai.ae, provides comprehensive guidelines for Indian travelers. Additionally, assistance can be sought from local travel agents or airlines to streamline the visa application process.

Alternatively, visas can be applied for directly through the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD) at gdrfad.gov.ae.

Tourist Visa Options for Indians:
If traveling for leisure, Indian nationals can apply for tourist visas, including:
– 30-day single entry visa
– 60-day single entry visa
– Multiple-entry tourist visas for 30 or 60 days.

Typically, visa processing takes two to four working days. However, expedited services such as express visas (processed within 24 hours) or instant visas (processed within three hours) are available through authorized travel agents for prompt processing.

Cost of Express and Instant Visas for Indians:
Express Visa:
– 30-day single-entry: Approximately INR8,000 (Dh354.54)
– 60-day single-entry: Approximately INR13,000 (Dh576.12)

Instant Visa:
– 30-day single-entry: Approximately INR10,000 (Dh443.17)
– 60-day single-entry: Approximately INR15,500 (Dh664.75)

Visa-Free Travel for Children:
Minors under 18 can apply for a complimentary tourist visa when accompanied by an adult with a valid tourist visa.

Visa on Arrival:
Indian citizens holding valid US visas, US Green Cards, EU Residency, or UK Residency can obtain a visa on arrival in the UAE, either at the airport immigration or by applying for pre-approval through Emirates Airlines.

Visa Extensions:
Tourist visas can be extended for an additional fee, subject to approval by the issuing authority.

Transit Visa:
Indian passport holders transiting through Dubai with layovers exceeding four hours must obtain a transit visa through their airline, with options for 48-hour or 96-hour validity depending on layover duration.

Five-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa:
Indian nationals can apply for a five-year entry permit allowing multiple entries into the UAE, with stays of up to 180 days per year.

Required Documents for Visa Application:
Documents required include a passport valid for six months, a passport-size photograph, round-trip flight tickets, and valid travel insurance.

Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance may be included in travel packages from agents. Alternatively, independent application through a reputable insurance company is also an option, with costs determined by the duration of stay.