New Delhi: The United Arab Emirates has expanded its visa-on-arrival program for Indian nationals. The move underscores the deepening partnership between the two countries, said Abdulnasser Alshaali, the UAE Ambassador to India.
The expansion is seen as a key milestone to enhance bilateral relations and promote greater people-to-people connectivity. Since February 13, Indian passport holders with valid residence permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Singapore have become eligible for visas on arrival at all UAE entry points.
This complements the existing eligibility, which includes holders of valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from the United States, European Union countries, and the United Kingdom.
Ambassador Alshaali highlighted the significance of the expanded program, stating that, “It is a practical step that will make it easier for families to reconnect, professionals to collaborate, and businesses to grow across borders.”
UAE Expands Visa-on-Arrival Facility for Indian Nationals
Indian passport holders with a valid resident permit from the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, or Singapore are now eligible for visa on arrival in the UAE.
This move further strengthens… pic.twitter.com/TCoKBSvRum— DD News (@DDNewslive) June 29, 2025
India has emerged as a major contributor to the UAE’s tourism sector, with an estimated 4.5 million Indian visitors in 2023. The embassy noted that coordinated efforts to enhance connectivity and simplify visa processes are central to sustaining tourism as a vital component of the countries’ growing economic relationship.
A recent report by the India-UAE CEPA Council underlined tourism’s role in expanding economic cooperation following the 2022 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Bilateral relations between India and the UAE have surged since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to the UAE in August 2015, when ties were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Since then, trade and investment flows have significantly increased.
The UAE embassy described mobility initiatives like visa-on-arrival as more than logistical conveniences; they symbolize mutual trust and foster stronger connections among citizens, investors, students, and professionals.
