Not every Indian qualifies for a UAE visa on arrival. Here's who does

Indian passport holders who live outside India may be eligible for a UAE visa on arrival if they meet specific residency requirements, according to a clarification issued by Dubai's General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai).

The visa-on-arrival facility is available to Indian nationals holding valid residence permits from select countries. Eligible travellers can choose between a 14-day or a 60-day visa on arrival, depending on their travel plans.

Here's what Indian travellers need to know.

Who is eligible?

Indian nationals can use the visa-on-arrival service if they:

• Hold an ordinary Indian passport.
• Have a passport valid for at least six months.
• Possess a valid residence permit issued by one of the approved countries.

The facility also extends to accompanying family members who meet the eligibility requirements.

Which residence permits are accepted?

To qualify, applicants must hold a valid residence permit issued by one of the following:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Any European Union (EU) member state
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Japan
• South Korea
• Singapore

What visa options are available?

Eligible Indian travellers can choose between two visa-on-arrival options:

14-day visa

• Valid for 14 days from arrival.
• Can be extended once for another 14 days.

60-day visa

• Valid for 60 days.
• Cannot be extended.

What documents are required?

Applicants must submit:

• A recent colour photograph with a white background.
• A passport valid for at least six months.
• A valid residence permit issued by one of the approved countries.

How can Indians apply?

Applications must be submitted through GDRFA Dubai's official digital channels.

Applicants need to log into the smart services platform, select the visa-on-arrival service, upload the required details and documents, pay the applicable fee, and wait for approval. Once approved, the visa is sent to the applicant's registered email address.

According to GDRFA Dubai, applications are processed within 48 hours, and the service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through its website and smart application.

How much does it cost?

The visa fees are:

• Dh172.50 for a 14-day visa on arrival.
• Dh422.50 for a 60-day visa on arrival.

Why has the UAE introduced this facility?

GDRFA Dubai said the visa-on-arrival service is intended to simplify entry procedures for eligible foreign residents while ensuring compliance with the UAE's immigration rules.

The authority said the initiative also supports the country's efforts to improve travel convenience, attract more visitors and boost tourism.

The programme has already seen significant demand. According to GDRFA Dubai, 73,551 visas were issued under the scheme during the first half of 2026, reflecting growing interest among eligible expatriates living abroad.