UAE visa-on-arrival expanded for Indian nationals

Last updated:

abu dhabi airport exterior image

Indian nationals with residency in six more countries can now get a UAE visa on arrival

 

The UAE expands visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals and here’s what’s changed.

The UAE has introduced new visa-on-arrival rules for Indian nationals, making travel to the country even more seamless.

The new rules, which came into effect on Thursday 13 February 2025, now allows Indian passport holders with valid residency permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea to obtain a visa on arrival at all UAE ports, including Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central.

This update follows a previous expansion allowing Indian nationals with valid UK, USA, or EU visas to also enter the UAE with a visa-on-arrival.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by UAE_BARQ_EN (@uae_barq_en)

 

Who qualifies for UAE visa-on-arrival?

 

Indian passport holders with a valid residency permit from the following countries:
Australia
Canada
Japan
New Zealand
Singapore
South Korea

 

No advance visa required

 

Travellers meeting these criteria no longer need to apply for a UAE visit visa in advance. Instead, they can obtain a visa upon arrival at UAE immigration checkpoints.

The announcement was made by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to streamlining travel and making it easier for families and business visitors to enter the country.

 

Why this matters

 

With Indian expats making up the largest expatriate community in the UAE, this visa expansion allows more families to visit with ease and boosts tourism and business opportunities.

For Indian nationals who do not hold a residency permit from these approved countries, there are still 11 different UAE visa options, including:
✔ Tourist visas
✔ Student visas
✔ Job-seeker visas
✔ Multi-entry visas

This latest move further cements the UAE’s position as one of the most accessible and welcoming destinations for global travellers.

 

Follow Yalla for all the latest news

Image credit ADQ Instagram

Read more