Indian nationals holding valid residency permits, visas, or Green Cards from six additional countries can now obtain a UAE visa on arrival — no pre-application required. The expansion, effective 13 February 2025, significantly broadens a facility that was previously limited to permit holders from just three regions.
New Eligible Countries for UAE Visa on Arrival
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (FAIC) confirmed that Indian nationals who hold valid documents from any of the following six countries now qualify:
- Singapore - Japan - South Korea - Australia - New Zealand - Canada
Before this update, the visa-on-arrival facility for Indian passport holders applied only to those with valid visas or residency from the United States, European Union, or United Kingdom.
What the Visa Allows
Eligible travelers receive a 14-day visitor entry, which can be extended once for an additional 14 days — giving a potential total stay of 28 days. The visa is available at all UAE entry points, including Dubai International Airport.
To qualify, applicants must present:
- A valid Indian passport with at least six months of remaining validity - A valid visa, residency permit, or Green Card from one of the eligible countries - Fee payment at the point of arrival
Why the UAE Made This Change
According to FAIC, the decision reflects the strength of the UAE-India bilateral relationship. The expanded program is designed to:
- Boost UAE tourism - Attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs - Strengthen the UAE's position as a global connectivity hub
The United Arab Emirates is home to one of the world's largest Indian diaspora communities, and India consistently ranks among the UAE's top source markets for both tourism and business travel.
Previously Eligible Countries
Indian nationals with permits from the following regions qualified for UAE visa on arrival before the February 2025 expansion:
- United States - European Union member states - United Kingdom
The six newly added countries bring the total to nine qualifying regions, making this one of the most significant expansions of the facility since its introduction.
