Traveling to Dubai becomes more difficult: Indian tourists now need to confirm hotel bookings and return tickets to obtain a visa

The Dubai Department of Emigration has announced new, stricter tourist visa requirements aimed at simplifying the application process and increasing eligibility. Travelers will now be required to provide hotel booking documents with a QR code and a copy of their return ticket when applying for a visa.

This change requires travel agencies to ensure that these documents are included in the application process, as failure to do so may result in delays.

Updated visa application rules

Under the revised rules, hotel bookings and return tickets are no longer mandatory. Applicants must upload these documents to the Department of Emigration website at the time of application. Only travel agencies are eligible to apply for tourist visas, while visitor visas can also be issued by traders, individuals or families, with both types of visas subject to the same documentation requirements.

A requirement for financial confirmation has been introduced

In addition to documentation changes, applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources on their credit or debit cards. The minimum requirement is set at AED 5,000 for a two-month visa and AED 3,000 for a three-month visa.

Reports show that many applicants have experienced processing delays due to difficulties in providing the required documents. Previously, travelers were only asked to show hotel reservations and return tickets when requested by immigration officials at the airport.

These new rules, which have already come into effect for citizens of Pakistan and several African countries, aim to further simplify the visa process. However, clarity is still needed on whether foreigners residing in the UAE will be required to provide similar documents when applying for a visitor visa for their families.

Preparing for your trip to Dubai

Indian passport holders in particular have several visa options available to them, including visa on arrival, a non-renewable 60-day visa and a new five-year multiple-entry visa designed to facilitate frequent travel.

1. Visa on Arrival: Indian travelers can obtain a 14-day visa on arrival, which can be extended for a further 14 days, provided they meet certain criteria, including holding a passport valid for at least six months and a valid visa or visa Residence from the US, UK or EU.

2. Non-extendable 60-day visa: This option allows you to extend your stay, but cannot be extended. The application fee is as per UAE regulations.

3. Five-year multiple-entry visa. Recently introduced, this visa aims to promote tourism and business ties between India and Dubai by allowing frequent visits for both business and personal reasons.