Dubai/UAE eVisa for Indian Citizens: Online Application Guide 2026
Indian citizens need an eVisa to visit Dubai and the United Arab Emirates for tourism in 2026. The UAE does not offer visa-free entry for Indian passport holders traveling on ordinary passports, so you must apply for an electronic visa before your trip. The good news is that the process is straightforward and entirely online. With Viza, you can check your exact requirements, see all fees upfront, and begin your UAE eVisa application in minutes.
UAE eVisa for Indian Citizens: Overview
The UAE eVisa system allows Indian citizens to obtain their tourist visa digitally, without visiting an embassy or consulate. The visa is processed through UAE-based sponsors, airlines, hotels, or through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) and GDRFA (General Directorate of Residences and Foreigners Affairs) online portals.
Here is a quick summary of what Indian travelers need to know:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Tourist eVisa (single or multiple entry) |
| Visa Fee | AED 330 (~USD 90) for 30-day single entry |
| Processing Time | 3 to 4 working days |
| Stay Duration | 30 or 60 days depending on visa type |
| Entry | Single or multiple entry options |
| Passport Validity | Minimum 6 months from date of arrival |
| Application Method | Online via airlines, sponsors, or Viza |
Note that Indian citizens who hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea (with at least 6 months remaining validity) may also qualify for a visa on arrival — a 14-day VOA at AED 100 or a 60-day VOA at AED 250. However, physical visa cards or vignettes are required; digital copies are not accepted at immigration.
Required Documents for UAE eVisa
Preparing the right documents before you start your application will save time and prevent delays. Based on the current UAE visa policy, here are the documents you will need:
Mandatory Documents
- Passport Bio Page Scan — A clear, color scan of your passport biographical data page. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in the UAE. Accepted formats: JPEG (under 1 MB, minimum 300 DPI) or PDF (under 2 MB).
- Passport Cover Page Scan — A color scan of the outer cover of your passport. Same format requirements as the bio page scan.
- Passport Photo — A recent color photograph taken against a white background. The recommended size is approximately 4.3 cm x 5.5 cm. The photo must be clear and biometric-compliant, with your face covering 70-80% of the frame. Accepted format: JPEG (minimum 300 DPI, under 1 MB).
- Return or Onward Flight Booking — A confirmed round-trip or onward ticket showing your entry and exit dates within the visa validity period. The itinerary must clearly show your name matching the passport, flight numbers, and travel dates.
- Hotel Booking / Accommodation Proof — A confirmed hotel reservation for the full duration of your stay, or a tenancy contract if staying with family in the UAE.
- Visa Application Form — A completed UAE visa application form in English or Arabic. This is handled digitally when applying through Viza or other online platforms.
Optional but Recommended Documents
- Proof of Funds — Bank statements, salary slips, or credit card evidence may be requested by the sponsor or processing agent, especially for longer stays or first-time travelers.
- Travel Insurance — While not always mandatory for tourist visas, medical travel insurance covering your stay in the UAE is strongly recommended and may be required by some sponsors or airlines.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for a UAE eVisa as an Indian citizen is a straightforward process. Here is how to do it through Viza:
Step 1: Check Your Visa Requirements
Visit Viza's India to UAE page to see the exact visa type, fees, and documents required for your trip. The platform will confirm whether you need an eVisa or qualify for visa on arrival based on your passport and any third-country visas you may hold.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Prepare digital copies of all required documents listed above. Ensure your passport scans are clear, in color, and meet the minimum resolution requirements (300 DPI). Your passport photo should be recent, taken against a white background, and meet the biometric specifications.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
Complete the online visa application form with your personal details, travel dates, and accommodation information. Double-check all information matches your passport exactly — any discrepancy can cause delays or rejection.
Step 4: Upload Documents and Pay
Upload all required documents and pay the visa fee. The standard UAE tourist eVisa costs AED 330 (approximately USD 90) for a 30-day single-entry visa. A 60-day single-entry option is also available at USD 177. Payment is processed securely online.
Step 5: Receive Your eVisa
After submission, your application will be processed within 3 to 4 working days. Once approved, you will receive your eVisa electronically. Print a copy to carry with you, although the visa is linked to your passport number in the UAE immigration system.
Fees and Processing Times
Understanding the costs involved helps you budget your trip properly. Here is a breakdown of all UAE visa-related fees for Indian citizens:
| Visa Type | Fee | Processing Time | Stay Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa (30-day, single entry) | AED 330 (~USD 90) | 3-4 working days | 30 days |
| Tourist eVisa (60-day, single entry) | ~USD 177 | 3-4 working days | 60 days |
| Visa on Arrival (14-day)* | AED 100 | Issued at immigration | 14 days |
| Visa on Arrival (60-day)* | AED 250 | Issued at immigration | 60 days |
| VOA Extension | AED 250 | Contact embassy | +14 or +60 days (one-time) |
| Transit Visa (48 hours) | Free (airline service fee may apply) | 1-3 working days | 48 hours |
| Transit Visa (96 hours) | AED 50 | 1-3 working days | 96 hours |
| Viza Service Fee | $5 |
*Visa on Arrival is only available for Indian citizens holding a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea with at least 6 months remaining validity. Physical documents required — digital copies are not accepted.
Important Tips for Indian Travelers to the UAE
Apply early: Even though processing takes only 3-4 working days, apply at least 1-2 weeks before your travel date to allow for any delays or additional document requests.
Passport validity matters: Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity from your date of arrival. If your passport is expiring soon, renew it before applying for the visa.
Overstay penalties are strict: Overstaying any UAE visa results in fines of AED 50 per day plus administrative fees. Always extend your visa or exit the country before it expires.
Keep printed copies: While your eVisa is linked digitally, carrying a printed copy of your visa approval, hotel booking, and return flight itinerary is recommended for smooth entry.
Check VOA eligibility carefully: If you plan to use the visa-on-arrival option, ensure your qualifying third-country visa or residence permit has at least 6 months of remaining validity and that you carry the physical card or vignette — digital copies are not accepted.
Currency note: AED (UAE Dirham) is pegged to the US Dollar at approximately 3.67 AED per 1 USD. Currency exchange is widely available at airports, banks, and exchange offices throughout the UAE.
Practical Travel Information for Dubai and the UAE
Airports and Points of Entry
The main international airports include Dubai International Airport (DXB), Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), and Sharjah International Airport (SHJ). Border officers will check your passport, visa, and may ask about your accommodation, purpose of visit, and proof of funds. Have all your documents readily accessible.
Mobile and Internet
The UAE has excellent mobile coverage with operators Etisalat, du, and Virgin Mobile UAE. Tourist SIM cards are available at airports and stores with prepaid data packages typically valid for 30 days. eSIM services are also available. The UAE boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the world with widespread 5G availability.
VAT Refunds for Tourists
Tourists can claim VAT refunds through the Global Blue system at participating stores. The minimum purchase amount is typically AED 250 (approximately USD 68-70). You must export goods within 3 months of purchase and present receipts at customs when leaving.
Official source: UAE ICP Smart Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian citizens need a visa for Dubai/UAE?
Yes, Indian citizens with ordinary passports need either an eVisa (applied for before travel) or may qualify for a visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea with at least 6 months remaining validity.
How much does a UAE eVisa cost for Indian citizens?
The standard 30-day single-entry tourist eVisa costs AED 330 (approximately USD 90). A 60-day single-entry option is available at approximately USD 177. Fees may vary slightly depending on the processing agent or sponsor.
How long does the UAE eVisa take to process?
The standard processing time for a UAE tourist eVisa is 3 to 4 working days. It is recommended to apply at least 1-2 weeks before your planned travel date to account for potential delays or requests for additional documents.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Dubai as an Indian citizen?
Only if you hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea with at least 6 months remaining validity. The 14-day VOA costs AED 100 and the 60-day VOA costs AED 250. You must carry the physical visa card or vignette — digital copies are not accepted at UAE immigration.
What passport validity is required for a UAE visa?
Your Indian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your arrival in the UAE. This applies to both the eVisa and visa-on-arrival options. If your passport is expiring within 6 months, renew it before applying.
What happens if I overstay my UAE visa?
Overstaying any UAE visa results in penalties of AED 50 per day plus administrative fees, payable at exit. To avoid fines, either extend your visa before it expires or leave the country within the permitted stay duration.
Ready to Apply for Your UAE eVisa?
Getting your UAE eVisa as an Indian citizen does not have to be complicated. With the right documents prepared and a clear understanding of the fees and processing times, you can have your visa approved within days. Start your UAE eVisa application on Viza today — check your requirements, upload your documents, and let us handle the rest so you can focus on planning your Dubai adventure.
