Dubai Visa for Indians: Types, Requirements, How to Apply
- Published by Max-B.
- May 22, 2025
- 10 min read
Table of Contents

Many Indians travel to Dubai every year for vacations, work, family visits, or business. No matter the reason, a visa is always part of the plan. The process may look confusing at first, but it’s not as hard as it seems. With a few steps and the right info, getting a Dubai visa for Indians can be smooth and stress-free.
Do Indians Need Visas for Dubai?
Yes, there’s a need for a Dubai visa for Indians. But don’t worry; the process is simple, and we’ll guide you through it. Actually, there are different types of Dubai visas for Indians, based on why you’re visiting and how long you plan to stay.
Here’s the good news: if you have a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa on your Indian passport, you can get a visa on arrival in Dubai. That means no paperwork before you travel. You just land in Dubai, head to immigration, and get your visa right there.
But if you don’t have those visas, don’t stress. You can still apply online or through a travel agent. Many airlines like Emirates and Air India Express also help Indian travelers get their Dubai visas.
Also, if you have friends or family in Dubai, they can sponsor your visa too. Just ask them to apply for it on your behalf.
All Dubai visa applications need:
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- 2 clear photos (white background)
- Confirmed return ticket
- Hotel or sponsor info (for tourist or family visas)
Types of UAE Visas for Indians
A Dubai visa for Indians comes in different types, including tourist visas, visit visas, transit visas, and residence visas. Let’s have a look:
Tourist Visa
If you are planning a holiday, a Dubai tourist visa for Indians is perfect if you just want to visit, relax, or shop till you drop. The visa:
- Comes as single-entry or multiple-entry.
- Usually valid for 30 or 60 days.
- You can extend it if needed.
- No job or study allowed.
If you are traveling with your family, know that most Indian families go for the 30-day visa. Easy to get, easy to extend.
Business Visa
If you are going for meetings, deals, or a short-term work project, then you’ll need a Dubai business visa.
- Best for entrepreneurs, investors, or office visits.
- Can be arranged by your company or a local business partner.
- Requires valid passport, photo, and confirmed return ticket.
Just don’t mix up this Dubai visa for Indians with a work permit. This visa is for short trips, not full-time jobs.
Visa on Arrival
Dubai visa on arrival for Indians lets some Indians skip the paperwork and get a visa at the airport. You qualify only if you have:
- A valid US visa or Green Card
- A valid UK visa or residency
- A valid EU visa or residency
- Or a valid residence permit from: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea
If you do, here’s what you get:
- A 14-day visa on arrival
- It costs around USD 63
- You can extend it once for 14 more days
Just make sure your passport and visa are valid for at least 6 more months from the day you land in Dubai. You don’t need to apply online or fill out forms. Just show your passport, visa, and return ticket at the airport.
Pro Tip: If your visa is even one day expired, you can’t get this. No exceptions. Dubai immigration is super strict.
48 HRS Transit Visa for Indians
If you have a short layover in Dubai and still want to sneak in a look at the Burj Khalifa, you can get a 48-hour transit visa.
- Valid for 2 days only
- For Indian travelers changing flights in Dubai
- Must show confirmed onward ticket
96 HRS Transit Visa for Indians
If you have a little more time between flights, go for the 96-hour transit visa.
- Valid for 4 days
- Perfect for quick trips or mini-vacations
- You still need a confirmed onward flight
To get a Dubai visa for Indians for your transit, you must arrange both types before you travel, usually through your airline.
Work Permit
If you are dreaming of working in Dubai, you’ll need a Dubai work permit for Indians.
- Your employer in Dubai applies for it
- Only given after you get a job offer
- Comes with a residence visa, medical test, and Emirates ID
Pro Tips: You can’t apply on your own. The company hiring you handles everything.
Study Visa
Want to study in Dubai? Dubai visa for Indians for study purposes is the way to go:
- Given by colleges or universities in the UAE
- Valid for 1 year, renewable
- You must show an admission letter and financial proof
Many Indian students choose Dubai because it’s closer to Europe and more affordable than the US.
Medical Permit
Dubai has top hospitals. Many Indians visit for surgeries or special treatments. If you need medical treatment in Dubai, you’ll need a Dubia medical visa for Indians.
- Given by the hospital or clinic
- Can allow multiple entries during treatment
- Valid only for the duration of your care
How to Apply for a UAE Visa Online through Air India?
Applying for a Dubai visa for Indians through Air India is easy and stress-free. Here’s how you can do it step by step:
- Go to the official Air India visa website, powered by OneVasco: airindia.visaops.net.
- Choose “UAE” from the list of countries, then click on “Apply Now.”
- Fill in your basic details like full name, passport number and expiry date, travel dates, email and mobile number.
- Upload your documents, including a clear photo of your passport, one recent photo with a white background, and a confirmed return flight ticket.
- Make the payment. After payment, you’ll get an instant confirmation via email
- A OneVasco visa expert will call or email you. They’ll help you if any documents are missing or not clear.
- Once everything looks good, your application goes to UAE immigration.
- After approval, your visa will be sent to your registered email. Print it and keep a copy on your phone.
Important tips before you apply:
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months
- The photo must match UAE visa rules.
- Apply at least 7 days before your trip to be safe
- Wait for the visa before booking hotel stays or activities
UAE Visa Processing Time
Getting a Dubai visa for Indians is quick. Normal processing takes 3 to 4 working days, not counting weekends or UAE holidays. If you’re in a hurry, express processing takes about 36 hours. Great for last-minute trips.
How to Track UAE Visa Application?
If you applied through Air India’s OneVasco portal, tracking your UAE visa is simple. Just contact your OneVasco travel consultant. They’ll give you updates on your visa status and tell you if anything else is needed. You can also check your email for updates. They usually send confirmation and final visa details there.
Dubai Visa for Indians Prices
The cost of a Dubai visa for Indians depends on the visa type and speed. A 30-day tourist visa costs around ₹6,710, while the express option is about ₹8,560. Prices may change, so always check before applying. Longer stays or extra services can cost more. If you’re not in a hurry, the normal option is usually fine.
2525 Update: UAE Expands Visa on Arrival for Indian Nationals
Starting from 13 February 2025, Indian passport holders with valid residence permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, or Singapore can now get a UAE visa on arrival. You don’t need to apply in advance. Just land at any UAE airport and get your visa right there. Super easy.
This is in addition to the old rule, which already allowed visa on arrival for Indian citizens who have:
- A valid US visa, Green Card, or residence permit
- A valid UK visa or residency
- A valid EU visa or residence permit
But here’s the catch: The visa or residence permit must be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive in the UAE. Even if it’s valid for five months and 29 days, they won’t accept it. So, double-check the expiry date before you fly.
The visa on arrival is valid for 14 days, and you can extend it once for another 14 days if needed. The fee is around USD 63, which you pay at the airport.
Just pack your bags, carry your passport, and make sure your supporting visa or permit is still valid. If you don’t have any of these visas or permits, you can still apply for a Dubai visa for Indians online or through a travel agency.
Dubai Visa for Indians: Let’s Recap
The rules for getting a Dubai visa for Indians have changed over time, and now there are more options than ever. The process is still clear if you know what to do. Simple documents, a little planning, and the right support can save a lot of time and trouble. With your visa sorted, all that’s left is to enjoy your trip and make the most of your time in Dubai.
If you want more information and details on how to get a Dubai visa for Indians, stop guessing and get a FREE expert visa consultation to make your dream a reality.
FAQ about the Dubai visa for Indians
Do Indian citizens need a visa to enter the UAE?
Yes, you do. But if you have a valid visa or residency from the US, UK, EU, or certain other countries, you might qualify for a visa on arrival.
What's the easiest way to apply for a UAE tourist visa?
You can apply online through airlines like Air India or Emirates, or use a trusted travel agent. The whole process takes just a few days if your documents are ready.
Can Indians get a visa on arrival in the UAE, or is it only for some travelers?
Only some Indian citizens can. You must have a valid US, UK, or EU visa or a residence permit from countries like Canada, Australia, Japan, or Singapore. No other shortcuts, sadly.
How long can I stay in the UAE on a tourist visa?
Usually, you can stay for 30 or 60 days, depending on the visa you choose. Visa on arrival allows 14 days, but you can extend it once.
How long is my UAE visa valid once it's issued?
Most UAE visit visas are valid for 58 days from the date they’re issued. That means you must enter the UAE within that time. Once you enter, your stay begins.
If I already have a Schengen visa, do I still need a UAE visa?
Yes, but if your Schengen visa is still valid, you may qualify for a visa on arrival. Just make sure it’s valid for at least six more months.
Can I cancel my UAE visa if my plans change?
Yes, you can. But don’t wait until the last minute. Let your visa provider know as early as possible.
If I cancel my UAE visa, will I get my money back?
Usually, no. Visa fees are non-refundable, even if you cancel before using it. So only apply when you’re sure about your travel.
Will I get a refund if my UAE visa gets rejected?
Nope, sorry. If your visa is rejected, the fee is not refunded. That’s why it helps to double-check your documents before applying.
If my UAE visa gets rejected, how soon can I apply again?
There’s no official waiting period. You can apply again right away. But it’s smart to fix the reason it got rejected before reapplying or ask an expert for help.
- Author
- Max-B.
- May 22, 2025

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