The United Arab Emirates has issued updated guidance, published 29 October 2025, on the 14-day visa-on-arrival (VoA) facility for Indian citizens. To qualify, travellers must hold a valid US visa or green card, or residency in the UK or EU, with at least six months’ validity remaining.
The clarification, aimed at curbing abuse and avoiding last-minute deportations, reiterates that overstay fines accrue daily after the initial 14 days unless the visa is formally extended once for another 14 days. VoA ineligible passengers will be refused boarding by airlines. Business travellers must carry proof of onward travel and hotels; immigration officers may ask to see the third-country residency card in original.
For Indian companies arranging last-minute client visits or maintenance trips to Dubai, the key change is the stricter documentation check at airline counters rather than on arrival. Travel managers should therefore verify that employees’ US visa or EU residence permits remain valid for six months beyond the travel date and insert copies into the ticketing PNR for airline verification.
Note that Indians without qualifying third-country status must still obtain a prepaid visit visa from UAE-based sponsors or VFS prior to travel. Airlines have been instructed to impose DGCA-level penalties if they transport non-compliant passengers.
The clarification, aimed at curbing abuse and avoiding last-minute deportations, reiterates that overstay fines accrue daily after the initial 14 days unless the visa is formally extended once for another 14 days. VoA ineligible passengers will be refused boarding by airlines. Business travellers must carry proof of onward travel and hotels; immigration officers may ask to see the third-country residency card in original.
For Indian companies arranging last-minute client visits or maintenance trips to Dubai, the key change is the stricter documentation check at airline counters rather than on arrival. Travel managers should therefore verify that employees’ US visa or EU residence permits remain valid for six months beyond the travel date and insert copies into the ticketing PNR for airline verification.
Note that Indians without qualifying third-country status must still obtain a prepaid visit visa from UAE-based sponsors or VFS prior to travel. Airlines have been instructed to impose DGCA-level penalties if they transport non-compliant passengers.
