Dubai has long been regarded as a dream destination for Indian travellers, blending futuristic skyscrapers with desert landscapes, golden beaches and world-class shopping.
Its proximity to India, excellent air connectivity and cultural familiarity have made it one of the most visited international cities by Indian tourists. Whether for family holidays, business events or luxurious getaways, Dubai continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Indian visitors.
With global travel booming again in 2025, more Indians are planning international trips, and Dubai remains at the top of the list. The city has embraced digital innovations to make travel more seamless than ever.
One of the biggest advantages for tourists today is the convenience of applying for a Dubai visa for Indians through streamlined online platforms.
Digital submissions, faster approvals and simplified documentation mean travellers can now plan their holidays with minimal hassle.
Understanding updated visa procedures is essential for a smooth trip. Knowing the latest visa costs, online application options and eligibility requirements ensures that travellers can avoid unnecessary delays or confusion.
Many travellers also prefer booking a complete Dubai tour package, which often includes flights, hotels, sightseeing and visa assistance, making the process even more convenient.
For Indian travellers, the accessibility of a Dubai visa for Indians makes exploring the city’s attractions, from the Burj Khalifa to desert safaris and luxury resorts, more appealing than ever before.
In 2025, Dubai is not just a holiday destination; it is an effortless escapes thanks to modernised visa systems and its enduring charm. For Indians looking to combine ease of travel with unforgettable experiences, Dubai continues to shine as the perfect international getaway.
Do Indians need a Visa for Dubai?
Yes, Indian citizens do need a visa to enter Dubai. The process is straightforward, and with modernised systems in place, applying for a Dubai visa for Indians has become easier than ever. The United Arab Emirates offers multiple types of visas for Indian travellers, catering to different purposes and durations of stay.
The most common option is the tourist visa, which is available in short-term (14 or 30 days) and long-term (90 days) variants. These can be single-entry or multiple-entry depending on the traveller’s preference. For those passing through Dubai on their way to another destination, a transit visa is available, usually valid for 48 or 96 hours. Business professionals can apply for a business or work visa, while frequent travellers may choose a multi-entry long-term visa for added convenience.
Understanding which type of Dubai visa for Indians best suits your travel plan ensures a smooth journey. With easy online access and quick approvals, Indian visitors can plan their trip with confidence, whether it is for leisure, business or a short transit stop.
Dubai Visa Types for Indian Travellers
Indian citizens planning a trip to Dubai have several visa options depending on the purpose and duration of their stay. Understanding which visa to choose can make travel planning easier and ensure a smooth experience.
1. Tourist Visa:
The tourist visa is the most common option for Indian travellers visiting Dubai for leisure. It is suitable for short-term holidays, sightseeing, or family trips. This visa is available as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa and can last for 14, 30, or 90 days. Travellers should opt for a longer duration if planning an extended stay or combining Dubai with trips to neighbouring Emirates.
2. Transit Visa:
The transit visa is ideal for Indian travellers who are connecting through Dubai on their way to another destination. It is valid for 48 or 96 hours and cannot be extended. This visa is perfect for short stopovers, allowing passengers to explore Dubai briefly before continuing their journey.
3. Business Visa:
Indian professionals visiting Dubai for work-related activities should apply for a business visa. It is suitable for attending conferences, meetings, or exploring business opportunities. This visa usually has a 14 to 90-day validity and can sometimes be issued as a multiple-entry visa depending on the applicant’s requirements.
4. Multi-Entry Long-Term Visa:
The multi-entry long-term visa is designed for frequent travellers. It allows multiple visits to Dubai within the visa validity period, making it convenient for Indians who travel regularly for business or leisure. This option reduces the need for repeated visa applications.
Comparison Table of Dubai Visas for Indians
| Visa Type | Duration | Entry Type | Best Suited for |
| Tourist Visa | 14,30,90 days | Single / Multiple | Leisure trips, family holidays |
| Transit Visa | 48-96 hours | Single | Short stopovers and layovers |
| Business Visa | 14-90 dayss | Single / Multiple | Business meetings, conferences, and professional visits |
| Multi-entry Long-term Visa | Varies (6–12 months) | Multiple | Frequent travellers, combined business and leisure trips |
The Dubai visa for Indians process is straightforward, with online applications, quick approvals, and multiple options to suit different travel needs. Choosing the right visa type ensures a hassle-free visit and a memorable Dubai experience.
Dubai Visa on Arrival for Indians
Indian citizens enjoy a special privilege when visiting Dubai: the Dubai visa for Indians can be obtained on arrival under certain conditions, making travel planning convenient and hassle-free.
The visa on arrival is available primarily for residents holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa.
This option allows eligible Indian travellers to skip the traditional application process and receive their visa directly at the airport.
How the Visa on Arrival Works
Upon landing at Dubai International Airport, eligible Indian travellers can approach the immigration counters to request a visa on arrival.
Airport officials will verify eligibility, check supporting documents, and issue a short-term visa. This process typically takes a few minutes to complete and provides immediate clearance to enter the United Arab Emirates.
Required Documents
To obtain a Dubai visa on arrival, Indian travellers must carry:
- A passport valid for at least six months
- A confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Dubai
- A valid US, UK, or Schengen visa (for most cases)
- Payment for the visa fee (in cash or card)
Validity and How to Extend
The Dubai visa on arrival for Indians is generally valid for 14 days. It can be extended once for an additional 14 days by applying through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) before the initial visa expires. Extensions are subject to approval and payment of additional fees.
Where to Pay and Currency Accepted
Visa fees must be paid at the immigration counter upon arrival. Payments can typically be made using UAE Dirhams (AED) or via internationally accepted credit and debit cards. It is advisable to carry some local currency in case electronic payments face issues.
Dubai Visa Online Process for Indians
Indian citizens planning a trip to Dubai can conveniently apply for a Dubai visa for Indians online. The e-Visa system allows travellers to complete the entire process digitally, reducing paperwork and ensuring faster approvals. This method is suitable for leisure, business, or family visits, and is highly recommended for first-time visitors or those who prefer a hassle-free journey.
Who is Eligible?
Indian passport holders planning to visit Dubai for tourism, business meetings, or short-term stays are eligible to apply online. Unlike the Visa on Arrival, there are no restrictions on holding another international visa, making it accessible to a wider range of travellers.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official UAE e-Visa portal or authorised service provider.
- Create an account and fill in the online application form with personal, passport, and travel details.
- Upload digital copies of required documents.
- Pay the visa fee online using an international debit or credit card.
- Apply and wait for confirmation.
Required Documents in Digital Format
- Passport copy valid for at least six months
- Passport-sized photograph in JPEG format
- Confirmed flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Travel insurance (optional but recommended)
Timeline
It is recommended to apply at least 7–14 days before travel. Processing times for e-Visas usually range from 3 to 5 working days, depending on the type of visa and completeness of documentation.
Costs and Processing
Visa fees vary depending on the duration and type of e-Visa, generally ranging from AED 350 to AED 800. Payments are made online, ensuring a smooth and secure transaction.
Advantages vs. Visa on Arrival
The e-Visa process provides greater flexibility and certainty compared to the Visa on Arrival. Travellers can plan, avoid long queues at the airport, and receive electronic confirmation before departure. Unlike the Visa on Arrival, the e-Visa is available to all eligible Indian citizens, even those without a US, UK, or Schengen visa.
Applying for a Dubai visa for Indians online ensures a stress-free start to the trip, allowing travellers to focus on enjoying Dubai’s iconic attractions, shopping districts, and cultural experiences.
Dubai Visa Cost Breakdown
When planning a trip to the UAE, understanding the cost structure of a Dubai visa for Indians is essential. The fees vary depending on the type and duration of stay you choose.
A standard 14-day tourist visa usually costs around AED 350–400 (₹7,900–9,000), while a 30-day single-entry tourist visa is priced between AED 450–500 (₹10,200–11,300).
For longer stays, such as a 90-day visa, the cost can rise to AED 1,000–1,200 (₹22,500–27,000).
Multiple-entry visas are slightly higher, typically starting at AED 1,500 (₹34,000 onwards), ideal for travellers who plan to enter and exit Dubai several times during their trip.
When converted to Indian Rupees, the pricing can fluctuate slightly due to changing exchange rates (₹22–23 per AED on average). For instance, AED 350 at an exchange rate of 22.5 equals about ₹7,875.
Travellers should always check the latest currency rates before making a payment to ensure accurate budgeting.
Apart from the official visa fees, applicants often incur additional charges if they apply through travel agents or online platforms.
Service fees can range from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 depending on the provider, and they usually cover application handling, document verification, and customer support.
Though optional, using such services can simplify the process, especially for first-time travellers.
Overall, the Dubai visa is reasonably priced compared to many international destinations, but factoring in agent service charges and exchange rate variations is vital for an accurate cost estimate.
Planning in advance ensures a smooth visa process and a stress-free beginning to your Dubai journey.
Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Indian passport holders travelling to Dubai must meet certain requirements when applying for a visa. Having the right documents ready ensures a smooth approval process and avoids unnecessary delays.
Passport Validity: Travellers must hold a valid Indian passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of arrival in Dubai. Passports nearing expiry are not accepted, so renewal should be done before applying.
Return or Onward Ticket: Authorities require proof of a confirmed return or onward ticket. This assures immigration officials that the visitor will leave Dubai within the permitted visa duration.
Hotel Booking or Stay Proof: Applicants should submit confirmed hotel reservations or, in the case of staying with relatives, a letter of invitation with their address. This helps establish accommodation details during the visit.
Travel Insurance (Recommended): While it is not mandatory for every type of Dubai visa for Indians, having travel insurance is strongly advised. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or baggage loss, ensuring peace of mind throughout the trip.
ID Proofs and Passport Photos: A clear scanned copy of the passport’s bio page, recent passport-size photographs with a white background, and sometimes additional ID such as PAN or Aadhaar may be required.
In short, a valid passport, confirmed travel plans, proof of accommodation, and supporting documents are essential for a successful Dubai visa application. Carrying out all these steps ensures a smooth process and increases the chances of a quick approval. Adding travel insurance, though optional, is a wise step to safeguard your journey.
How to Apply for a Dubai Visa from India (Step-by-Step)
Indian travellers can obtain a Dubai visa through various methods, depending on their convenience and travel plans. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Visa on Arrival (VoA)
- At Dubai International Airport, eligible Indian citizens with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa can apply for a 14-day Visa on Arrival.
- Required documents include a passport valid for at least 6 months, a confirmed return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and a valid visa or green card copy of the US, UK or Schengen countries.
- The process is straightforward: present your documents at the immigration counter, pay the fee, and receive an entry stamp within minutes.
Online Visa Application
- Visit Dubai’s official e-Visa portal or airline websites such as Emirates and flydubai.
- Create an account, select the visa type, and complete the online application form.
- Upload scanned documents, including a passport copy, a passport-size photograph and confirmed bookings.
- Make the payment online using a debit or credit card.
- The visa is usually processed within 3 to 5 working days and delivered by email as a PDF. This option is the most convenient for most Dubai visas for Indians.
Visa via Travel Agent or Online Platform
- Travel agents and third-party visa platforms assist with applications, especially for first-time travellers.
- They charge an additional service fee of about ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 for handling paperwork, submissions and follow-ups.
- This option is useful if you want a hassle-free process or are less comfortable with online systems.
By choosing the right method, whether Visa on Arrival, online application or through an agent, securing a Dubai visa is simple and efficient.
Visa Extension Rules for Indians in Dubai
- Indian citizens visiting Dubai can extend their stay if they require more time. For those entering on a Dubai visa on arrival (VoA), an extension of an additional 30 days is possible. This allows the initial 14-day VoA to be prolonged once, giving travellers up to 44 days in total.
- To apply, visitors must submit their request before the current visa expires. Required documents include a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity, the original entry stamp, a copy of the visa, a confirmed return or onward ticket, and a recent passport-size photograph.
- The extension fee is generally AED 850 to AED 1,000 (₹19,000–22,500), depending on the visa category and service charges. Payment can be made at immigration counters or online via the GDRFA portal.
- Applications can be made at authorised General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) offices in Dubai, including the main office near Jafiliya Metro Station, service centres across the city, and Amer centres that handle visa services.
- Travellers should always apply a few days before expiry to avoid fines, as overstaying without an approved extension can lead to penalties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying for a Dubai visa for Indians, it is important to avoid certain mistakes that can disrupt your travel plans.
A frequent error is booking flights without confirming visa eligibility. Many Indian travellers assume they qualify for a Dubai Visa on Arrival, but eligibility depends on holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa. Booking tickets before confirming this can lead to denied entry or costly last-minute cancellations.
Another common issue is not carrying the correct currency for Visa on Arrival payments. The fees must usually be paid in UAE dirhams (AED), and although card payments are sometimes accepted, having cash in AED ensures a smoother process. Relying solely on Indian rupees or other currencies can cause delays at the airport.
The most serious mistake is overstaying without extending the visa. Whether you are on a VoA or an online Dubai visa, staying beyond the approved validity leads to fines and may affect future travel approvals. Extensions are possible, but they must be applied for before expiry at authorised GDRFA or Amer centres in Dubai.
By checking eligibility, carrying the right currency, and respecting visa rules, Indian travellers can enjoy a seamless Dubai trip without unnecessary complications.
Final Summary: Your Dubai Visa Sorted
Obtaining a Dubai visa for Indians has never been easier, with multiple options tailored to different travel needs. The simplest and most convenient choices are the Visa on Arrival for eligible travellers or an online visa applied through the official e-Visa portal. Both options allow you to manage your travel plans with minimal hassle and offer a clear and transparent cost structure.
The online process, in particular, highlights the convenience of modern travel planning. Applicants can upload documents, make payments securely, and receive the visa by email within a few working days. Visa on Arrival remains ideal for those who meet eligibility criteria and prefer completing the process upon entry at Dubai International Airport.
To ensure a smooth journey, it is important to plan. Confirm eligibility, prepare all required documents, and check the latest visa fees in AED and Indian rupees. Early preparation avoids last-minute stress and prevents complications such as overstaying or incorrect documentation.
By understanding your options, costs, and requirements in advance, securing a Dubai visa becomes a straightforward step in your trip, allowing you to focus on enjoying the city without unnecessary worry.
Indian travellers can choose from several visa types depending on the length and purpose of their stay. The most common options include a 14-day Visa on Arrival (VoA), a 30-day single-entry tourist visa, a 90-day tourist visa, and multiple-entry visas for frequent travellers. VoA is ideal for those holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa and provides a quick entry process at Dubai International Airport. Longer-duration visas can be applied for online through the official e-Visa portal or via authorised travel agents. Selecting the right type ensures compliance with UAE immigration rules and avoids fines for overstaying.
Applying for a Dubai visa for Indians online is straightforward. Visit Dubai’s official e-Visa portal or an authorised airline website such as Emirates or flydubai. After creating an account, choose the visa type, fill in your personal and travel details, and upload scanned copies of your passport and passport-size photograph. Payment is made online using a debit or credit card. Once processed, the visa is emailed as a PDF, which can be printed and presented upon arrival. This method is convenient, secure, and avoids queues at the airport.
Yes, Indian citizens can extend their Dubai visa on arrival for an additional 30 days. To do so, you must apply at a General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) office or the Amer Centre in Dubai before the current visa expires. Required documents include your passport, original entry stamp, a copy of the visa, a confirmed return ticket, and a recent passport photograph. Extension fees typically range from AED 850 to AED 1,000 (₹19,000–22,500). Overstaying without extension can result in fines and affect future travel to the UAE.
Essential documents include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, confirmed return or onward flight tickets, proof of hotel bookings or accommodation, passport-size photographs, and sometimes additional ID such as PAN or Aadhaar. While travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Carrying all necessary documents ensures a smooth visa process and reduces the risk of delays at immigration.
Indian citizens without a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa cannot avail the 14-day Visa on Arrival. They will need to apply for a tourist visa online or through a travel agent in advance. Attempting to rely on VoA without meeting eligibility criteria may result in denied entry at the airport. It is always recommended to check eligibility requirements before booking flights to Dubai to avoid last-minute complications.
Using a travel agent or third-party platform to apply for a Dubai visa for Indians usually involves an extra service charge ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500. These fees cover document verification, application submission, and follow-up support. While optional, many travellers prefer using an agent for first-time applications to ensure the process is smooth and hassle-free.
Leave a Reply