GOOD NEWS for Indians planning a trip to Dubai or looking to explore Dubai City during a layover en route to the United States! Emirates Airlines, one of our partners for best flight deals to USA/India, has introduced pre-approved visa-on-arrival service exclusively for Indian nationals, with effect from January 2024. With pre-arrival approval, Indian passport holders can skip queues for visa-on-arrival formalities at Dubai International Airport.
Difference between visa on arrival in Dubai and the newly launched pre-approved visa on arrival:
Emirates Airlines’ visa-on-arrival service in Dubai is not new for Indians having a valid US visa or Green Card. It has been in place for them for months. However, the newly launched pre-approved visa on arrival facility is more efficient and convenient. It simplifies and quickens the visa formalities on arrival at DXB Airport. If the Dubai airport layover in your itinerary permits only a short city sightseeing tour, Emirates Airlines’ new initiative will enable faster visa processing so that you can spend more time in the city.
How to get Emirates’ pre-approved visa on arrival in Dubai?
It is easy and simple. You can apply for it online only after booking Emirates flight tickets through Indian Eagle or any other travel agency. Emirates Airlines’ partnership with VFS Global Services facilitates the pre-approval process for eligible Indian passport holders. The UAE visa platform linked to Emirates.com outlines the requirements and clauses for you to obtain a 14-day single-entry visa on arrival.
- Log on to Emirates.com and navigate to “Manage an existing booking” on the portal.
- Enter your last name and booking reference number or e-ticket number to retrieve your booking details.
- Click the “Apply for a UAE Visa” link
- You will be redirected to the UAE Visa application portal powered by VFS Global Services
- Fill out the application form and pay the visa fee online.
- Go to the pre-approved visa on arrival counter at Dubai Airport
What is the cost of Emirates’ visa on arrival service for Indians?
A single-entry, 14-day visa on arrival costs USD 63 per traveler, as per the official website of Emirates Airlines. Eligible Indian nationals have to pay this UAE visa fee during the online pre-approval process (mentioned above).
Emirates’ visa on arrival eligibility norms for Indians
Among passengers of Emirates flights, normal Indian passport holders with a valid US visa or Green Card are eligible for a pre-approved visa on arrival in Dubai. Both the passport and the US visa/Green Card must be valid for 6 months from the date of departure for the UAE. Emirates Airlines extends this facility to Indian nationals holding an EU or UK residence card with 6-month validity.