All you need to know about UAE visas for Indian tourists: Updates, costs, and eligibility

The UAE is experiencing a major festive travel boom. This Diwali season, more Indians are choosing the UAE over celebrating at home. Between September and October 2025, visa applications from Indian travellers surged, with Dubai leading the list ahead of other popular Asian and European destinations.

The reasons? Quick visas, short flights, and world-class attractions. From luxury shopping and vibrant Diwali events to the city’s unbeatable safety record, Dubai offers a perfect mix of celebration and convenience.

Whether it’s exploring souks, watching the Dubai Fountain light up, or finding the best gold deals, the UAE feels both festive and familiar — just a few hours away.

In short, Diwali 2025 in Dubai promises a dazzling mix of fireworks, cultural festivities, big prizes, and family-friendly offers, cementing its place as a top global destination for Indian travellers this festive season.

UAE travel this Diwali? Check out our all-in-one visa guide
Here’s your complete visa and travel guide — in a quick Q&A format that answers all your key questions. From the latest UAE visit visa updates to costs, eligibility, e-visa and visa-on-arrival details, we break it all down for Indian travellers. Wondering what documents you need before applying or which tourist visa type suits your trip best? We’ve got you covered. Plus, if you’re considering staying longer after the holidays, find out how to switch from a tourist visa to a job visa in the UAE — all in one place.

Q1: What types of UAE tourist visas are available?
There are four main types:

Short-term, single entry – Valid 30 days, not extendable, fee Dh250.

Short-term, multiple entry – Valid 30 days, not extendable, fee Dh690.

Long-term, single entry – Valid 90 days, not extendable, fee Dh600.

Long-term, multiple entry – Valid 90 days, not extendable, fee Dh1,740.

Q2: Are there new types of UAE entry visas?
Yes. The ICP has introduced four new categories:

Specialist visa: For AI professionals; single or multiple entry; requires a UAE tech company sponsor letter.

Entertainment visa: For temporary visits for entertainment purposes.

Event visa: For festivals, exhibitions, conferences, sports, cultural or religious events; requires a sponsor/host letter.

Cruise and pleasure boat visa: Multiple-entry visa for travellers arriving via cruise or pleasure boats, sponsored by a licensed entity.

Q3: What are the latest UAE visit visa rules regarding host income?
Hosts must meet the following minimum salary thresholds:

First-degree relatives: Dh4,000/month

Second- or third-degree relatives: Dh8,000/month

Friends of UAE residents: Dh15,000/month
This ensures sponsors can financially support their visitors.

Q4: Can Indian passport holders get a visa on arrival?
Yes, if they hold a valid:

US visa, residence permit, or Green Card

EU or UK visa/residence permit

Visa or residence permit from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada

Q5: Do I always need a sponsor or guarantor?
Yes, most visit visas require a sponsor. Options include:

Hotels

Licensed travel agencies or tour operators

UAE-based airlines
Always process visas through authorised entities to avoid issues.

Q6: What are the requirements for Indian nationals?
Passport valid for at least six months

Bank statement showing at least Dh3,000

Valid hotel booking

Q7: Are there special fees for Indians with foreign residency or visas?
Yes:

14-day entry visa: Dh100

14-day extension: Dh250

60-day visa: Dh250

Q8: What if I don’t have friends or relatives in the UAE?
You have three options:

UAE-based hotels: Many can sponsor visas when you book directly.

Licensed travel agencies or tour operators: Act as sponsors; may require documents and refundable deposits.

Major UAE airlines: Visa assistance available from Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia and flyDubai.

Q9: What if I’m not eligible for visa-free entry?
Apply for a tourist visa through:

UAE-based airlines (Emirates, Etihad, flyDubai, Air Arabia)

Licensed travel agencies or tour operators

UAE residents (friends/family) as sponsors

Visa durations: 14, 30 or 90 days depending on the method.

Q10: Can these tourist visas be extended?
Standard short- and long-term tourist visas are not extendable, except through official extension services.

Q11: Can I extend a UAE tourist or visit visa?
Yes:

14-day entry visa: Dh100

14-day extension: Dh250

60-day visa: Dh250

Q8: What if I don’t have friends or relatives in the UAE?
You have three options:

UAE-based hotels: Many can sponsor visas when you book directly.

Licensed travel agencies or tour operators: Act as sponsors; may require documents and refundable deposits.

Major UAE airlines: Visa assistance available from Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia and flyDubai.

Q9: What if I’m not eligible for visa-free entry?
Apply for a tourist visa through:

UAE-based airlines (Emirates, Etihad, flyDubai, Air Arabia)

Licensed travel agencies or tour operators

UAE residents (friends/family) as sponsors

Visa durations: 14, 30 or 90 days depending on the method.

Q10: Can these tourist visas be extended?
Standard short- and long-term tourist visas are not extendable, except through official extension services.

Q11: Can I extend a UAE tourist or visit visa?
Yes: