Dubai Launches Five-Year Multiple Entry Visa for Indian Tourists
Dubai has taken a significant step to cement its status as a leading global tourism destination by introducing a five-year multiple entry visa for Indian citizens. This initiative reflects Dubai's recognition of India as its largest source market for tourism, aiming to streamline the travel process for Indian visitors and encourage repeated visits.
Visa Details and Requirements
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism outlines the visa process as efficient, with an expected processing time of two to five business days. The visa enables Indian tourists to enjoy prolonged stays of up to 90 days per visit, with the option to extend for another 90 days, allowing a total stay of 180 days within a year. Applicants must meet specific requirements, including:
- A passport with a minimum six-month validity
- Bank statements of the last six months showing a balance of at least INR 330,000 ($4,000)
- Valid health insurance
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- A recent photograph
Indians Leading Dubai's Tourism Influx
In 2023, Dubai welcomed 17.15 million international overnight visitors, with nearly 2.5 million from India, marking a significant increase from previous years. This surge not only illustrates the strong cultural and economic ties between Dubai and India but also highlights the strategic importance of the Indian market in Dubai’s broader tourism and economic goals.
Enhancing Air Connectivity
The India-Dubai route is among the world's busiest air travel corridors, further strengthened by Indian carriers like Indigo and Air India Express, which have expanded services to connect Dubai with smaller Indian cities. This increased connectivity aligns with the bilateral air service agreement between the UAE and India, allowing for a maximum of 66,000 seats per week on flights between Dubai and various Indian cities, a quota fully utilized by airlines from both countries.
Visa Incentives and Streamlined Entry
In a related development, Emirates Airline, in collaboration with VFS Global, introduced a pre-approved visa-on-arrival service for Indian passport holders. This service is designed for those with valid visas or residency permits from the US, UK, or EU, offering a 14-day single entry visa to expedite entry procedures upon arrival in Dubai.
A Vision for the Future
This visa policy underscores Dubai's commitment to enhancing its appeal as a hub for business, investment, and tourism. By facilitating easier access for Indian travelers, Dubai aims to foster deeper cultural exchanges and economic cooperation, further solidifying its position on the global stage.
