Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has introduced a new visa initiative aimed at bolstering travel between India and the Gulf nation, according to a report by news agency PTI.
As per the latest data released by DET on February 22, there has been a notable surge in Indian visitors to Dubai, with 2.46 million Indians traveling to the city last year, marking a remarkable 25 percent increase compared to the pre-Covid-19 era. This surge has solidified India's position as the leading source market, experiencing an exceptional 34 percent year-on-year growth.
Under this new visa scheme, eligible Indian nationals can benefit from a five-year multiple-entry visa, allowing for multiple entries into Dubai within this period, with each stay permitted for up to 90 days. Additionally, this visa can be extended once for a similar duration, ensuring a maximum total stay of 180 days within a year.
One of the notable features of this visa program is its efficient processing time, with applications typically being processed within two to five working days upon receipt and acceptance of the service request.
To be eligible for the visa, applicants must fulfill specific criteria, including maintaining a bank balance of $4,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies over the last six months and possessing valid health insurance coverage applicable in the UAE.
This initiative aims to provide tourists with increased flexibility for business engagements and leisure travel, while also promoting seamless connectivity between India and Dubai, as highlighted by DET in the PTI report.
Bader Ali Habib, Regional Head of Proximity Markets at Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, emphasized the significance of this visa scheme in strengthening economic collaborations and tourism between India and Dubai. He expressed confidence that Dubai's diverse offerings, multicultural ambiance, and abundant hotels and attractions will continue to attract Indian tourists, further solidifying Dubai's position as a preferred travel destination.
