Overview
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From the bustling city of Dubai to the serene desert landscapes, the UAE has something for everyone.
Why Visit the UAE?
- Luxurious Cities: Explore the opulent city of Dubai, with its iconic skyscrapers, world-class shopping malls, and artificial islands.
- Desert Adventures: Embark on a desert safari, ride a camel, or stargaze under the vast desert sky.
- Cultural Heritage: Discover the rich history and culture of the UAE, with visits to historical sites like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and traditional souks.
- Beach Paradise: Relax on the pristine beaches of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, or explore the stunning coastal cities of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah.
Best Time to Visit:
- Winter (November-March): Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with pleasant temperatures.
- Spring (April-May): Comfortable weather, perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Summer (June-September): Very hot and humid, best avoided unless you enjoy high temperatures.
Currency:
The official currency of the UAE is the UAE Dirham (AED).
Things to Know Before Visiting:
- Visa Requirements: Indian citizens require a tourist visa to visit the UAE. This can be obtained online or upon arrival at the airport.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
- Culture and Customs: The UAE is a conservative Muslim country, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Ramadan: During Ramadan, visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly regarding food and drink in public places.
Must-Visit Cities:
- Dubai: A global city known for its luxury shopping, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife.
- Abu Dhabi: The capital city, home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and beautiful beaches.
Get ready to be amazed by the stunning beauty, vibrant culture, and luxurious lifestyle of the UAE!
Identify your Visa Type
48-Hour Transit Visa: Perfect for short layovers, this single-entry visa allows you to stay in Dubai for up to 48 hours (based on your flight schedule). Ideal for business meetings or transit connections. Valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Documents Required
- Duly filled Visa Application Form
- Confirmed round-trip Emirates Airline ticket
- One recent passport-sized color photograph
- Color photocopy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Proof of financial means to cover your stay in the UAE
Please note: For specific requirements and additional supporting documents, refer to the our Visa Experts.
Begin Your Application
Getting Started
1. Determine Your Eligibility:
The first step is to identify which eligibility criteria you meet:
- Travel Record: Have you traveled to countries like the US, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Canada, Switzerland, or Japan in the last 5 years?
- Financial Records: Do you have a minimum annual income of INR 2 lakhs or more from business, profession, or employment, or investments of INR 5 lakhs or more?
- Family Invitation: Are you being invited by an immediate family member residing in the UAE?
2. Gather Required Documents:
Based on your eligibility criteria, gather the necessary documents. This may include:
- Visa Application Form: Fill out the form accurately and completely.
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the UAE.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent color photographs.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, salary slips, tax returns, or investment certificates.
- Flight Itinerary: Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Hotel Bookings: Reservations for your stay in the UAE.
- Invitation Letter (if applicable): From a host in the UAE.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): For female applicants and students traveling alone.
- Visa Fees: Pay the required visa fees.
3. Schedule an Appointment:
Book an appointment at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre. Our Visa Expert Team can also provide you eVisa without requiring to attend an appointment.
4. Visit the Visa Application Centre:
- Submit Documents: Bring your completed application form, required documents, and visa fees to the VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
- Biometric Information: Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
- Payment: Pay any additional fees for services like courier, SMS updates, or premium lounge.
5. Track Your Application:
You can track the status of your application online using the reference number provided by the VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
Important Notes:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your intended departure from the UAE.
- All documents must be original or certified copies.
- If your documents are not in English, you may need to provide certified translations.
- The processing time for a UAE visa can vary. It’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
By following these steps and providing the necessary documentation, you can increase your chances of a successful UAE visa application.
Photo Specifications
- Dimensions: 45mm x 35mm
- Face Proportion: The face should cover 80% of the photo.
- Orientation: Full face, front view, with eyes open.
- Background: Plain white, free of patterns or shadows.
- Quantity: One scanned digital photo sent via email.
- Requirements: The photo must be in color and taken within the last three months. Black-and-white photos are not acceptable.
Additional Guidelines:
- Facial features and eyes must be clearly visible. Hair, bangs, or caps should not obscure the face.
- Head coverings are only allowed for religious purposes.
- It is strongly recommended to remove glasses for the photograph.
Do you need Appointment Assistance?
Contact our Visa Expert Team for Appointment Assistance or Offline visa processing alternatives.
Submission Process
Contact our Visa Experts for the document collection and submission process.
Submission Times
- Normal: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Sunday-Thursday)
- Express: 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM (Sunday-Thursday)
Note: Business days exclude Saturdays, Sundays, and UAE holidays.
Processing Timeline
- Normal: 3-4 business days
- Express: 36 hours