Visa-on-arrival: UAE relaxes visa rules for Indian nationals, families

Dubai: The UAE has expanded its visa-on-arrival program for Indian nationals to include those with valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from six new countries.

Starting February 13, 2025, Indian citizens holding ordinary passports and valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from the following countries—Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada—will be granted visas upon arrival at all UAE entry points.

Previously, the policy applied only to individuals with documentation from the United States, European Union member states, and the United Kingdom.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) announced that eligible Indian travelers will be granted visas on arrival at all authorized UAE entry points.
To qualify, travellers must hold passports valid for at least six months and pay the applicable visa fees, in accordance with local regulations.

According to the ICP, the expansion reflects the UAE’s long-standing ties with India and aims to facilitate the movement of eligible Indian nationals and their families, offering them opportunities to explore new prospects for living, working, and investing in the country.

The move also aligns with the UAE’s strategic efforts to attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, further strengthening its position as a global financial, tourism, and economic hub.