UAE Confirms Visa on Arrival Eligibility for Indian Passport Holders

The United Arab Emirates continues to maintain its streamlined entry policy for Indian passport holders who possess specific qualifying documents. As of late 2026, Indian nationals who hold a valid visa or residence permit issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, or the European Union are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival at UAE airports. This policy is designed to facilitate tourism and business travel for a significant demographic of international visitors.

The process requires the payment of a fee, currently set at AED 100, and the presentation of the qualifying document at the point of entry. The UAE authorities emphasize that the qualifying visa or residence permit must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. This policy remains a cornerstone of the UAE's efforts to remain a global hub for transit and tourism, particularly for travellers already vetted by other major Western jurisdictions.

This policy applies specifically to Indian passport holders who possess a valid US, UK, or EU visa or residence permit. It does not apply to Indian citizens who do not hold these specific secondary documents, who must instead apply for a standard e-Visa prior to departure.

Makutet analysis suggests that the UAE will likely maintain this 'visa-on-arrival' model for the foreseeable future as it serves as a highly effective tool for managing high-volume tourism from India. By leveraging the vetting processes of the US, UK, and EU, the UAE effectively outsources a portion of its security screening, allowing for a frictionless entry experience that supports the country's ambitious 2030 tourism targets.