How to Apply for a Dubai Visa on Arrival?

A Dubai Visa on Arrival is a tourist or business visa that is processed immediately at the immigration counter upon your arrival in Dubai. For this there is no need to apply online as in the case of a pre-approved tourist visa.

However, most Indian passport holders are not entitled to this facility. Eligibility you need to hold certain foreign visas or residence permits.

Indian nationals can avail the Dubai Visa on Arrival only if they are in possession of a valid visa or residence permit from the following countries or organizations:

• A valid US visa (visitor visa, employment visa or resident visa)
• A valid US Green Card
• A valid UK residence permit
• A valid Schengen residence visa

• • The Indian passport must be valid for at least Six months 
• • The foreign visa or residence permit must be valid upon arrival.
• • Ordinary passports without the above listed visas will not be eligible for this visa.

For such visitors, the option to apply for a Dubai tourist visa in advance will be the right option.

Be sure to have the original documents and their printed copies to prevent any hold-ups:

• Indian Passport (with 6 Months Validity)
• Valid US / UK / Schengen Visa or Residence Permit
• Hard copy of the foreign visa application
• Return ticket or onward journey
• Confirmation of hotel booking or UAE address
• Evidence of sufficient funds (recommended)

Immigration officers can also ask additional questions according to your travel history.

Step 1: Arrive at Dubai Airport

Land at Dubai International Airport and proceed to the immigration hall.

Step 2: Approach the Immigration Counter

Tell the officer you want a visa on arrival.

Step 3: Submit Documents

Submit your passport and accommodation details to foreign visa staff.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the fees for the applicable visa on arrival at the counter.

Step 5: Entry Stamp & Approval

After approval, get your passport stamped and enter Dubai.

Like anything, it's the discretion of the immigration whether to grant the visa or not, but the process will be hassle-free if you have your paperwork in order.

• Estimated average fees: ₹2,951 – ₹3,689
• Card or cash payment is generally accepted
• Visa fees are not refundable if you get refused entry

Charges are subject to change, it is a good idea to bring extra money.

• An average processing time: 15–45 minutes
• The waiting time may be longer in the high season
• Printed documents can expedite clearance

• Stay allowed in first phase: 14 days
• Extension: one time only for a further 14 days
• Application for extension shall be submitted from within the UAE
• Overstaying will be punished with daily fines and legal matters

Better safe than sorry: if you anticipate a longer stay, get your visa in advance.

• The wrong assumption that visa on arrival is open for all Indians
• Holding expired or almost expiring foreign visas
• Not carrying printed copies of their visa
• Mistaking visa on arrival as a regular tourist visa
• Bringing along family members who are not entitled

These mistakes can cause entry denial at the airport.

Visa on Arrival vs Pre-Approved Tourist Visa (Dubai)

To apply in advance or not to – that is the question!

• You have a valid US/UK/Schengen visa
• You are traveling solo or on a brief solo trip
• You are travelling after last-minute planning

• You are travelling with family / kids
• You want guaranteed entry
• You are planning your trip in advance
• You want the cheapest cost and the least stress at the airport!

Indian citizens with a normal passport and a valid visa or resident permit from the USA, UK, or European Union had been the long-term eligibility for Indians to seek a visa on arrival in Dubai. The changes brought in 2025 further broadened the scope of visa on arrival for India, as the facility was expanded to include residents of Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Singapore.