Dubai Visa Guide for Indian Citizens (2025)
Dubai, also known as the ‘City of Gold,’ stands as one of the most visited emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Its iconic skyline, luxury shopping, and thriving business environment attract millions of visitors, including a large number of Indian travelers each year. This guide provides Indian citizens with accurate, up-to-date information on obtaining a Dubai visa.
What is a Dubai Visa?
Dubai visa for Indian citizens has become relatively simple, thanks to the UAE government’s recent policies. Technically, the visa issued is a UAE visa, but the sponsoring authority should be in Dubai; it is often informally referred to as a Dubai visa. This visa allows Entry not only to Dubai but also to all the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
How to Apply for a Dubai Visa?
The UAE Embassy in India does not directly issue visas to ordinary passport holders. Indian citizens must apply for a Dubai visa through approved sponsors such as:
- UAE-based airlines (e.g., Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, Air Arabia)
- Authorized travel agencies
- Hotels based in Dubai or the UAE
The sponsoring entity manages the Application on your behalf.
Application Process:
- Select an authorized sponsor (airline, travel agency, or hotel).
- You should Determine the type of visa based on your travel purpose.
- Gather the required documents according to your visa type.
- Complete the application form provided by the sponsor.
- The sponsor uploads documents to the UAE visa portal.
- Pay visa fees online or through the sponsor.
- The sponsor applies to UAE immigration authorities.
- Await processing and receiving your e-visa by Email upon approval.
It is crucial to submit accurate information and genuine documents to avoid visa rejection, as this may impact future visa applications.
Types of Dubai Visa for Indian Citizens
Dubai offers several visa categories based on purpose and duration:
1️⃣ Dubai Transit Visa
- For travelers transiting through Dubai International Airport.
- Valid for 48 hours or 96 hours.
- Requires confirmed onward travel.
2️⃣ Dubai Service Visa
- Valid for 14 days.
- Issued for business meetings, seminars, or short commercial visits.
3️⃣ Dubai Tourist Visa
- Allows visits for tourism purposes.
- Typically valid for 30 days.
- Available as single-entry or multiple-entry.
4️⃣ Dubai Long-Term Tourist Visa
- Suitable for longer vacations or extended visits.
- Valid for 90 days.
- Offered as single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
Documents Required for Dubai Visa
Indian citizens applying for a Dubai visa generally need to submit:
- Passport with at least 6 months’ validity.
- Color copy of passport bio page and last page.
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- One recent color passport-sized photograph (white background).
- Proof of employment or business (salary slip, employment letter, or business registration).
Depending on the visa type or sponsor requirements, you might be required to submit additional documents.
Dubai Visa Fees for Indians
Visa fees vary depending on:
- Visa type (tourist, transit, business, long-term)
- Number of entries (single or multiple)
- Express processing fees
- Sponsoring agency service charges
It is advisable to verify the exact fee with your selected sponsor before submitting your Application.
Dubai Visa Processing Time
- Standard processing time: 3-5 working days.
- Express processing may be available at an additional cost.
- Delays may occur based on document verification or public holidays.
Always apply in advance to avoid last-minute complications.
How to Check Dubai Visa Status
Indian citizens can track their Dubai visa status by:
- Logging into the sponsoring airline or travel agency portal.
- Contact the travel agency or hotel handling your Application.
- Use your reference number and passport expiry date on the sponsor’s tracking portal.
✅ Quick Recap for Indian Applicants:
- A Dubai visa is a must for Indian passport holders.
- You must make an Application through authorized sponsors.
- The process is entirely online through your sponsor.
- Processing takes approximately 3–5 working days.
- Various visa types are available: Transit, Tourist, Business, and Long-Term.
