🇦🇪 UAE visa — Indian passport.
UAE has two tracks for Indian passport holders. Under-30 first-time visitors get a FREE 14-day visa-on-arrival. Everyone else applies for an e-visa via emirates.com or a UAE-licensed travel agent, ₹6,500 for a 30/60-day single-entry, 3-5 day processing.
How to apply — 6 steps.
- 1
Check eligibility for free VoA (under 30, first-time only)
If you are under 30 AND have never had a UAE visa before, you get a free 14-day visa-on-arrival. Skip to Step 6.
Today - 2
Choose application route
Easiest: book your flight on Emirates, Air India, IndiGo, etc. and apply via their portal during booking. They handle the visa application — ₹6,500-7,500 charged separately.
After booking flight - 3
Gather documents
Passport scan, recent photo (white background, 4.3×5.5 cm), confirmed flight booking, hotel reservation. Bank statement NOT required for tourist visa.
Before applying - 4
Submit application
Upload via the airline's portal or directly via smartdubai.ae. Pay via card.
5-7 days before travel - 5
Wait for approval
3-5 working days typical. Approval lands in email as a PDF — print it.
3-5 days - 6
Travel + immigration
Show e-visa PDF + return ticket at Dubai/Abu Dhabi immigration. Eye scan + fingerprint biometrics. 60-day stamp.
At airport on arrival
Document checklist.
- Passport scan (6+ months validity)
- Recent passport-size photo
- Confirmed return ticket
- Hotel booking or sponsor letter
- Visa fee receipt
Why Indians get rejected.
- Previous UAE overstay or deportation
- Damaged passport
- Incorrect photo dimensions (4.3×5.5 cm specifically)
- Booking flight after applying — must be booked first
FAQ
How long does UAE visa take for Indians?
Processing time is 3-5 days. Apply 2-4 weeks before travel for safe margin.
How much does UAE visa cost for Indians in 2026?
₹6,500 per person (Q2 2026 official rate).
How long can Indians stay in UAE?
60 days per entry on the e-visa visa. Extension possible from inside the country in most cases — check with local immigration.
Do Indians need a return ticket to enter UAE?
Yes — a confirmed return or onward ticket within the visa duration (60 days) is required at airline check-in and at UAE immigration. Open-jaw and circle-trip tickets qualify.