Travelling to Dubai has become easier for many Indian passport holders, but the UAE visa on arrival rules have changed in 2026. If you previously qualified based on a foreign visa or residence permit, it is worth checking the latest eligibility requirements before booking your flight.
The recent update expands visa-on-arrival eligibility to more travelers while also introducing a new long-stay option for qualifying visitors. Knowing which category you fall under can help you avoid unexpected issues during airline check-in or immigration.
Before planning your trip, explore our UAE Visa Services, or discover exciting UAE Activities to help organize your visit.
The UAE has expanded its visa-on-arrival program for eligible travelers by introducing updated eligibility criteria and additional visa options.
Previously, many travelers relied on the 14-day visa-on-arrival facility. Under the latest rules, eligible visitors may now receive either a 14-day or 60-day visa on arrival, depending on their eligibility and the applicable immigration regulations.
The revised policy also extends eligibility to nationals of additional countries, making the program available to a broader group of international travelers.
Although the update creates more travel opportunities, it remains important to verify your eligibility before departure because visa-on-arrival is still not available to every traveler.
Indian passport holders may qualify for a UAE visa on arrival if they meet the eligibility requirements set by the UAE authorities. To be eligible, you must hold a valid Indian passport along with one of the following:
Your passport and supporting visa, Green Card, or residence permit must meet the UAE’s validity requirements at the time of travel. Immigration officers may also request additional documents to verify your eligibility upon arrival.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a 60-day visa on arrival for eligible travelers. Previously, the visa-on-arrival facility was primarily associated with a 14-day stay, with an option to extend under certain conditions.
The new 60-day option offers greater flexibility for travelers planning longer vacations, visiting family, or attending business meetings in the UAE. However, it is available only to travelers who meet the official eligibility requirements, and the applicable visa duration will be determined by the UAE authorities upon arrival.
If you’d like to learn more about eligibility requirements, required documents, and the visa-on-arrival process, read our UAE Visa on Arrival for Indians guide.
Even if you qualify for a UAE visa on arrival, immigration officers may ask you to present documents confirming your eligibility and travel plans. Keeping these documents ready can help avoid unnecessary questions during your arrival.
Carry the following:
It’s also worth saving digital copies of your important travel documents on your phone or in secure cloud storage. While they won’t replace the originals, they can be useful if you need quick access to your information.
A UAE visa on arrival is a convenient option for eligible travelers, but it is not suitable for everyone. If you do not meet the current eligibility requirements or prefer to have your visa approved before you travel, applying for a UAE visit visa is the better choice.
You should apply for a UAE visit visa before departure if:
The latest changes make the UAE visa-on-arrival program more flexible for eligible travelers, but not everyone will qualify under the updated rules. Checking your eligibility before booking flights or accommodation is the best way to avoid last-minute surprises.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a UAE visa on arrival or need a UAE visit visa instead, Seaman Tours can help you understand your options and assist with your visa application before you travel.
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📧 info@seamantours.com
