e-Visa required

Indian citizens typically need an e-Visa before travelling to United Arab Emirates, though some may qualify for Visa on Arrival.

Indian citizens generally require an e-Visa to enter the United Arab Emirates for tourism. However, those holding a valid US visa or Green Card, or a valid UK or EU residence visa, may be eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for a shorter stay. It is crucial to check the specific requirements based on your individual circumstances before travel.

Select visa type & details

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e-Visa (30-day Single Entry Tourist) — visa details for Indian citizens travelling to United Arab Emirates
Detail e-Visa (30-day Single Entry Tourist)
Verdict e-Visa required
Validity 58 days from the date of issue
Max stay 30 days from date of entry
Entries Single
Processing time Typically 3 to 6 working days for e-Visas, but can vary based on the type of visa and processing authority.
Government fee Fees vary by visa type and nationality, and change often — check the official fee portal.
Best for For Indian citizens visiting the UAE for general tourism purposes.

How much does a United Arab Emirates visa cost for Indian citizens?

You pay online when you apply. The total is usually the government e-Visa fee plus any card or processing charge.

  • Government fee Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application.
  • Processing / card charge Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top.
  • Third-party sites Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

Documents required for Indian citizens

Tick items as you collect them — 0 of 6 ready.

How to apply for a United Arab Emirates visa from India

Follow these steps in order.

  1. 1
    Determine your eligibility: Check if you qualify for Visa on Arrival or if you need to apply for an e-Visa in advance.
    UAE Government Visa Information
  2. 2
    For e-Visa: Apply through UAE-based airlines (e.g., Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, Air Arabia), authorized travel agencies, or hotels (for their guests). These entities will facilitate the application process with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
  3. 3
    Gather required documents: Prepare your passport copy, photograph, flight tickets, and accommodation details as per the visa type.
  4. 4
    Submit your application and wait for approval. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays or rejection.
  5. 5
    For Visa on Arrival: Present your valid Indian passport, confirmed return ticket, and the qualifying US visa/Green Card or UK/EU residence permit to immigration officials upon arrival at any UAE international airport.

Common United Arab Emirates visa rejection reasons

Why India → United Arab Emirates applications get refused — and how to avoid it.

  • Incomplete or incorrect application form/documents.

    How to avoid: Double-check all fields for accuracy and ensure all required documents are attached and legible before submission.

  • Passport validity less than six months.

    How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into the UAE.

  • Previous overstay or deportation from the UAE.

    How to avoid: Always adhere to visa validity periods and immigration laws. If you have a history, seek legal advice or contact the UAE embassy for specific guidance.

  • Criminal record or security concerns.

    How to avoid: Ensure you have no criminal history that might flag security concerns. Be truthful in your application.

  • Discrepancies in provided information.

    How to avoid: All information provided in your application and supporting documents must be consistent and truthful. Inconsistencies can lead to suspicion and rejection.

  • Lack of clear travel purpose or insufficient funds.

    How to avoid: Clearly state your purpose of visit as tourism and be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.

Trip essentials

Hand-picked tools for your United Arab Emirates trip.

Travel insurance

Cover for medical emergencies & delays.

eSIM & data

Get online the moment you land.

Flights

Compare routes to United Arab Emirates.

Stays

Hotels & rentals at your destination.

Things to know & places to visit

Practical tips and top destinations.

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places, to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Stay hydrated, particularly during warmer months, and use sunscreen to protect against the strong sun.
  • Alcohol consumption is permitted in licensed venues (hotels, clubs, bars) but public intoxication is illegal. Be mindful of local laws.
  • Photography of government buildings, military installations, and local people without their permission is generally discouraged.
Best time to visit

October to April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities.

Top places
  • 📍 Burj Khalifa, Dubai
  • 📍 The Dubai Mall, Dubai
  • 📍 Desert Safari, various locations
  • 📍 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
  • 📍 Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
  • 📍 Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi

Frequently asked questions

  • Yes, tourist visas can generally be extended twice, each for 30 days, for a fee. This must be done before the current visa expires to avoid fines. Indian citizens eligible for VOA can extend their 14-day stay once for another 14 days.

  • No, a tourist visa does not permit employment in the UAE. Engaging in any form of paid work is strictly prohibited and can lead to penalties, deportation, and future entry bans.

  • Overstaying your visa will result in daily fines, and you may face detention and deportation. It can also lead to a ban from re-entering the UAE for a certain period. It is crucial to depart before your visa expires or extend it legally.

  • While not always a mandatory requirement for visa application, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances during your stay in the UAE.

  • No, the Visa on Arrival facility for Indian citizens is strictly limited to those holding a valid US visa or Green Card, or a valid UK or EU residence visa. All other Indian citizens must obtain an e-Visa in advance.

  • Indian citizens applying for a UAE tourist e-Visa must have a passport valid for at least six months from their intended date of entry into the UAE. If your passport has less than six months validity, you should renew it before applying for the e-Visa. Applying with insufficient validity may lead to your application being rejected.

  • While UAE e-Visa processing can be relatively quick, it is generally recommended to apply at least 3-5 working days before your intended travel date. Applying at short notice carries a risk that your visa may not be processed in time for your trip. Always check the current processing times on the official application portal.

  • Indian citizens applying for a UAE tourist e-Visa are generally expected to demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover their expenses during their stay. This can typically be shown through recent bank statements or other proof of funds. There is no fixed minimum amount specified, but you should be able to support yourself without working.

  • As a self-employed Indian citizen, you will typically need to provide proof of your business registration and recent bank statements for your business or personal accounts. You may also be asked for income tax returns or a letter from your accountant. Ensure all documents clearly demonstrate your financial stability and intent to return to India.

  • Yes, every individual, including children, must have their own valid e-Visa to enter the UAE. You will need to submit a separate e-Visa application for your child, along with their passport and other required documents. Ensure you also carry their birth certificate to prove your relationship during travel.

  • You pay online when you apply. The total is usually the government e-Visa fee plus any card or processing charge. Government fee: Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application. Processing / card charge: Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top. Third-party sites: Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

  • You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a United Arab Emirates visa is valid for the whole country — including Burj Khalifa, Dubai, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Desert Safari, various locations and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi. Apply once for United Arab Emirates and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.

This page is AI-assisted and last verified on 12 Jul 2026. Visa rules change — always confirm on the official source before you travel.