UAE tightens visa-on-arrival conditions for Indian passport holders
Visa on arrival in Dubai and Abu Dhabi now requires a valid US visa, US green card, or UK/EU residence permit. Everyone else should apply for an e-visa before flying.
- In effect from
- 28 Aug 2026
- Published
- 9 Sept 2026
- Source
- ICP UAE
Airlines have been instructed to verify the supporting document at check-in. Travellers arriving on the strength of an expired US visa are being denied boarding rather than refused at the border.
The visa on arrival is issued for 14 days and can be extended once for a further 14 days at an immigration office inside the country.
If you do not hold a qualifying document, the 30-day or 60-day tourist e-visa is straightforward and is normally approved in three to four working days. Apply earlier during peak holiday weeks.
Countries affected
Related updates
ESTA holders should check authorisation against new selfie requirement
US Customs and Border Protection now requires a selfie photograph for ESTA. Travellers whose ESTA does not contain the required photograph may need to apply for a new authorisation.
Check existing ESTA authorisations for the new selfie requirement
US Customs and Border Protection now requires a selfie photograph for ESTA. Travellers whose authorisation does not contain the required photograph may need to apply for a new ESTA.