Dubai Visa for Indians – Visa Types, Fees, and How to Apply

Summary: Planning a trip to Dubai? Obtaining a Dubai visa is necessary for Indians who wish to visit Dubai for various purposes. Continue reading to know more about the process for getting a visa for Dubai, including types of visas, application procedures, required documents, and fees.

Dubai is one of the most visited destinations in the world, attracting millions of tourists each year. With its stunning architecture, luxurious hotels, and world-class attractions, it is no wonder that many Indians choose to visit this amazing city. But before you book your flight tickets, understanding Dubai’s visa process is crucial. Fret not, this blog is your one-stop guide to knowing everything about Dubai visas for Indians, covering the visa types, fees, and application procedures.

Visa Types for Indians in Dubai

Whether it’s for tourism, business, education, or medical reasons, Indian citizens have a range of visa options tailored to their specific needs and preferences. Understanding each visa type is vital to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience to Dubai. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the different types of visas for Indians traveling to Dubai:

1. Single Entry Tourist Dubai Visa for Indians: This visa allows a one-time entry into Dubai/UAE with a stay duration ranging up to 60 days from the date of entry.

2. Multiple Entry Tourist Dubai Visa for Indians: Ideal for frequent travelers, this visa permits multiple entries into Dubai/UAE within a maximum span of 60 days per visit.

3. Tourist Child (0-18) Dubai Visa for Indians: Specifically designed for children aged 0 to 18, this visa grants a maximum stay of 30 days with a single entry into the country.

4. Single Entry Tourist Express Visa for Indians: Similar to the single-entry tourist visa, this option offers expedited processing, typically within 1-2 days, allowing a stay of 30 to 60 days.

5. Child Tourist Express Visa for Indians: Designed for young travelers aged 0 to 18, this visa offers swift processing, usually within 1-2 days, and allows a maximum stay of 30 days.

6. 48 HRS Transit Visa for Indians: Suited for short layovers, this visa allows a brief stay of up to 2 days in Dubai/UAE for transit passengers.

7. 96 HRS Transit Visa for Indians: Similar to the 48-hour transit visa, this option extends the stay to 96 hours (4 days) for transit passengers.

8. Work Permit: It is recommended that you obtain a work permit visa if you are seeking employment in Dubai. In order to work in Dubai, your new employer must obtain a visa for you.

9. Study Visa: Intended for those pursuing education or vocational training in Dubai, this visa is facilitated through universities or educational institutions in the UAE.

10. Medical Permit: For individuals requiring medical treatment in Dubai, this permit allows multiple entries based on the duration of treatment and must be obtained before accessing healthcare facilities.

Validity of Dubai Visas for Indian Citizens

The validity of Dubai visas for Indian citizens can vary depending on the type of visa obtained. Here’s a general overview:

Eligibility Criteria for Dubai Visa

To qualify for any of the above visas provided by the authorities, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Travel Records: Applicants who have traveled to countries such as the USA, UK, Schengen countries, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, etc., within the last five years, or hold a valid visa for these countries, or can provide evidence of travel to the UAE in the last five years are eligible to apply.

2. Financial Records: If applicants do not meet the travel history requirements, they must submit either Form 16 for the previous two years or their Income Tax Return for the same period, demonstrating a minimum gross income from business, profession, or employment of no more than Rs.2 lakh per year. Additionally, applicants may present documentation of fixed deposits totaling at least Rs.5 lakh held at banks or the post office.

3. Invitation from Immediate Family Member Residing in UAE on Family Status: Spouses and children below 21 years of age and/or parents above 60 years can extend an invitation under this criterion.

4. Newly Married Couple: In cases where the name of the spouse is not endorsable on the passport, the couple must provide the marriage certificate, a notarized affidavit on Rs.100 stamp paper, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the parents along with photo ID evidence, wedding card, and marriage photograph.

Document Requirements for Dubai Visa

To apply for a Dubai visa online, you need to fulfill certain document requirements. 

1. An application form

2. A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from the date of entry into Dubai

3. Two recent passport-sized color photographs taken within the last three months. The dimensions should be 35 x 45mm with a white background, ensuring clarity with no blurred spots and visible face and eyes

4. PAN Card

5. For transit visas, both arrival and departure flight tickets, as well as a visa for the final destination, are necessary

Besides the above-mentioned documents, here are some other document requirements based on the aforementioned eligibility criteria:

Travel Record:

1. Original passport with a minimum validity of six months

2. Colored photocopy of the first and last two pages, observation page, and any valid travel records

3. Duly filled and signed visa application form with a recent photograph

4. Invitation letter (if applicable) from the host in the destination country

5. Original and photocopy of onward and return confirmed flight tickets with Emirates or Fly Dubai

6. Visa fees paid in cash, demand draft, or credit card

7. Female applicants and solo travelers above 18 years old must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from parents/husband and their photo ID. They also need to submit a colored copy of the host’s passport or residence visa

Financial Record:

1. Duly filled and signed visa application form with a recent photograph

2. Original passport with a minimum validity of six months

3. Colored photocopy of the first and last two pages, observation page, and any valid travel records.

4. Invitation letter (if applicable) from the host company in the destination country

5. Original and photocopy of Income Tax returns

6. Salary slips for the last six months

7. Photocopy of Permanent Account Number (PAN)

8. Original and photocopy of the fixed deposit receipt

9. Female applicants and solo travelers above 18 years old must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from parents/husband and their photo ID. They also need to submit a colored copy of the host’s passport or residence visa

Invitation from Immediate Family Member Residing in UAE on Family Status:

1. Invitation letter, passport copy, and valid residence visa copy of the host in UAE

2. Onward and return confirmed flight tickets with Emirates or Fly Dubai

3. Duly filled and signed visa application form with a recent photograph

4. Original passport with a minimum validity of six months

5. Colored photocopy of the first and last two pages, observation page, and any valid travel records

6. Invitation letter (if applicable) from the host in the destination country

7. Visa fees paid in cash, demand draft, or credit card

8. Female applicants and solo travelers above 18 years old must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from parents/husband and their photo ID. They also need to submit a colored copy of the host’s passport or residence visa

Dubai Visa Fees for Indian Applicants

The visa fees for Dubai can vary depending on factors such as the type of visa. Here’s a general overview of Dubai visa fees for Indian citizens:

Please note that these fee ranges are subject to change and it’s essential to verify the current visa fees at the time of application.

How to Apply for a Dubai Visa?

Applicants are required to visit the nearest visa application center to apply for a UAE visa and submit the necessary documentation, including the visa application form. At the center, applicants are also responsible for making the required visa payments. Once the necessary procedures have been completed, the authorities process the application.

The second option is to apply online through reputable online visa application services, authorized by the UAE government. These services act as intermediaries, simplifying the application process and communicating with the visa authorities on your behalf.

Here’s a straightforward guide to obtaining your Dubai visa online:

1. Start by visiting the website of any reputable visa service provider. On their website, find the section for applying for visas and choose “Dubai” as the country you intend to visit.

2. Select the type of visa you need.

3. Provide your personal information, including your name, passport number, and planned travel dates.

4. Upload required documents such as your passport, PAN card, and passport-sized photographs.

5. Complete the payment for the visa fees. Once your documents are verified, your Dubai visa will be sent to the email address you provided.

Dubai Visa Processing Time 

The processing time for a Dubai visa application submitted online from India can vary depending on the type of visa. Here’s a general overview of the typical processing times for Dubai visas:

Is There a Visa on Arrival for Indians in Dubai?

Indian citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival in Dubai only if they meet specific criteria. In addition to holding a valid Indian passport, individuals must fulfill one of the following requirements:

1. A valid US visit visa or green card with a minimum validity of six months

2. A residence permit for the UK or EU

Those meeting these conditions can apply for a visa on arrival, which permits a stay of up to 14 days in Dubai. Note that a visa fee is applicable for this service. Additionally, travelers have the option to pay an extra fee for a one-time extension of their visa duration.

FAQs

1. Who is eligible to apply for a Dubai visa?

Indian passport holders who wish to visit the UAE are eligible to apply for a UAE visa.

2. Which Dubai visa option is most suitable for travelers from India?

The type of visa you should get for Dubai from India depends on why you’re going and how long you’ll stay. If it’s just for a short trip, like tourism, go for a tourist visa which can last from 30 to 60 days and can be for single or multiple entries. But if you’re moving for work, you’ll need a work visa.

3. What are the implications if my Dubai visa application is denied?

If your visa application gets declined, you’ll be notified of the reasons for the rejection. Once you’ve resolved those reasons, you can submit a new application. However, please note that the application fee is non-refundable.

4. Is there an option to obtain a visa upon arrival in Dubai?

Travelers from India holding a valid US visa, UK visa, Schengen visa, US green card, EU resident visa, or UK residence visa are eligible to apply for a Dubai visa upon arrival.

5. What is the processing time for Dubai visa applications submitted online?

You might receive a Dubai visa in as little as 24 hours, but typically, expect your Dubai visa to be processed and delivered within 1 to 5 days.

6. How far in advance should I apply for a Dubai visa before my trip?

It’s advisable to apply at least one month before your intended travel date to Dubai.

7. Is it compulsory to include details of a local contact or host in the visa application form?

Yes, it’s necessary to provide the details of your local host for your application to be processed.

8. My passport expires in two months, and I intend to visit the UAE for 30 days. Can I still apply for a visa?

To qualify for a visa, your passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months. If your passport doesn’t meet this requirement, you’ll need to renew it before applying for the visa.