The UAE has revised its visa-on-arrival rules for Indian passport holders, narrowing the eligibility criteria for who can enter without a pre-arranged visa. As of July 2, 2026, per the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP — icp.gov.ae), Indian travelers planning a trip to Dubai or any other UAE emirate must verify their eligibility before departure.
Who Qualifies for UAE Visa on Arrival Under the New Rules
Under the updated policy, Indian passport holders remain eligible for a UAE visa on arrival only if they hold a valid visa issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, or a Schengen Area country. The qualifying visa must be valid at the time of travel to the UAE.
Indian travelers who do not carry one of these three qualifying visas are no longer able to use the visa-on-arrival route and must obtain a UAE visa before travelling. This is a direct change from previous arrangements that had broader eligibility.
The UAE visa on arrival is valid for 14 days and can be extended once for an additional 14 days from within the UAE, giving eligible travelers a maximum stay of 28 days under this route.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | July 2, 2026 |
| Who Is Affected | All Indian passport holders travelling to UAE |
| Qualifying Condition | Valid US, UK, or Schengen visa required |
| Visa on Arrival Duration | 14 days, extendable once for 14 more days |
| Those Without Qualifying Visa | Must apply for UAE visa in advance |
| Official Source | UAE ICP — icp.gov.ae |
What Indian Travelers Must Do Before Flying to Dubai
Indian passport holders travelling from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, or Chennai must check their passport and any held visas against the new eligibility conditions before booking travel.
If you hold a valid US visa (including B1/B2), a valid UK visa, or a valid Schengen visa, you remain eligible to use the visa-on-arrival facility on arrival at UAE airports. Carry the original passport containing the qualifying visa along with a confirmed return ticket and proof of accommodation.
If you do not meet the qualifying visa condition, you must apply for a UAE visa in advance. Applications can be submitted through UAE-authorized channels. Use our Eligibility Checker to confirm which visa route applies to your travel documents before you finalize your itinerary.
For a full breakdown of UAE visa costs in INR, the Visa Fee Calculator provides current fee data to help you plan your travel budget accurately.
Indian travelers who already hold a valid UAE visa obtained before this rule change are not affected and may continue to travel on that visa for its remaining validity period.
For complete documentation requirements and a step-by-step preparation guide, see our Dubai Visa Guide.
Source: UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), UAE — icp.gov.ae
FAQ
Who among Indian passport holders can still get UAE visa on arrival?
Indian passport holders who hold a valid US visa, UK visa, or EU Schengen visa are eligible for UAE visa on arrival under the updated rules.
How long is the UAE visa on arrival valid for Indian travelers?
The UAE visa on arrival is valid for 14 days and can be extended once for another 14 days from within the UAE.
What documents do Indians need for UAE visa on arrival?
Travelers need a valid Indian passport, a confirmed return ticket, proof of accommodation, and the qualifying visa (US, UK, or Schengen) that makes them eligible. Carry all documents in original at the port of entry.
Is there a fee for UAE visa on arrival for Indians?
Check the official UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security website (icp.gov.ae) for the latest fee structure.
What should Indians do if they do not hold a qualifying visa for UAE visa on arrival?
Indian passport holders who do not hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa must apply for a UAE visa in advance through an authorized channel before travelling.