New UAE visa waiver rules for Indians to benefit job seekers, transit travel

Dubai: UAE’s decision to extend its visa waiver rules for Indian passport holders with a valid visa, residence permit or green card from six more countries has many benefits for job seekers, transit passengers, and medical tourists. Travel agents have said it also helps prospective property investors, students seeking higher education in the UAE, and cruise tourists.

Moreover, Indian travellers with visas from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and Canada – who are the beneficiaries of the extension – can also save anything from Dh200 (cost for single-entry 30-day tourist visa) to Dh300 (cost for single-entry 60-day tourist visa) on visa application fees. However, eligible Indian tourists can still apply for a pre-approved entry permit before their trip through the immigration websites (ICP, GDRFA) for Dh253. The processing time is 48 hours.

Afi Ahmed, Chairman of Smart Travels, said, “The extension of the visa waiver will greatly help Indian passport holders who are looking to find jobs in the UAE. It makes it easier for professionals to attend interviews and networking events.”

He added, “Earlier, job seekers from these countries had to take 30-day visit visas to attend job interviews or networking opportunities that cost anything between Dh200 to Dh300. Moreover, if they had to extend in-country, they had to pay an additional Dh 500.”

Earlier, Indian visitors with proof of residency from the EU, the US or the UK would automatically qualify for a visa on arrival. Justin Sunny from Europe Tours and Travels said, “It reduces immigration processing by lessening the workload for UAE visa authorities. It also encourages property investments by making travel hassle-free and strengthens medical tourism.”

“Transit passengers from these countries will benefit as well. Previously, many chose flights with short layovers of 3-6 hours, staying within the airport. Now, they have the chance to step out and explore the UAE with a 2-3 day stay,” said Hemali Shah, Managing Director of City One Tourism and Travel. “It also boosts tourism,” she added.

The Abu Dhabi stopover programme already provides a free-of-charge visit visa upon arrival at Zayed International Airport for citizens from 72 countries.

According to the travel agents, it also attracts more attendees for business events, conferences, and exhibitions, attracts students and academics for collaborations, encourages cruise passengers to explore UAE ports, supports family visits, and increases airline traffic.

Indian passport holders eligible for the preapproved visa on arrival can apply through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) or through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA) website.

Indian travellers hoping to use the facility must ensure that their applicable tourist or residency visas and passports are valid for at least six months when they enter the UAE. Eligible Indian tourists can apply for a pre-approved entry permit before their trip.

“This initiative aims to boost tourism, attract top talent, skilled workers and entrepreneurs, and further solidify the UAE’s position as a leading global hub,” state news agency WAM reported. WAM said the applicable regulation requires a six-month passport validity and payment of prescribed fees. Emirates passengers can also apply by paying $63 (Dh232).