New Travel Rules Apply Now Worldwide

The UAE has announced visa-on-arrival provisions for Indian travellers with valid visas, green cards, or residence permits from six more countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea. This policy — which came into effect on February 13, 2025 — will permit entry from checkpoints, such as Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central, to boost tourism and accommodate seamless travel through the UAE.

This new mandate is an offshoot of the UAE’s 2024 visa policy, which permitted Indian nationals with valid tourist visas or resident permits from the United States, European Union member states, and the United Kingdom to use visa-on-arrival facilities.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security declared that Indian travellers who qualify for the new policy will be granted visas on arrival at all authorised entry points. The eligibility criteria for this policy include passports valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in the UAE, visa, Green Card, or residence permit from any eligible country, and travellers must also pay the visa fees applicable at the checkpoints as per local regulations.

This policy highlights the UAE’s long-standing relationship with India — among the largest expatriate societies in the country. It will facilitate tourism for individuals and enable families of UAE residents to plan hassle-free visits.

The UAE’s new visa-on-arrival clause for Indian citizens has key details that include the eligibility criteria and the benefits of the policy. The eligibility criteria include having a valid visa, Green Card, or residence permit from eligible countries, and paying the applicable visa fees.

The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication. The UAE’s new visa policy is expected to boost tourism and facilitate travel for Indian citizens.

Note: The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.