Emirates Unveils Pre-Approved Visa-on-Arrival for Indian Visitors

Emirates has unveiled a pre-approved visa-on-arrival option for specific Indian passport holders, offering enhanced convenience for eligible travelers who have booked their flights with the airline. This initiative grants a 14-day single-entry visa and enables Emirates customers to bypass queues upon arrival in Dubai. The application process is managed by the Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC), operated by VFS Global, a facility designated by Emirates Airline for processing UAE visas.

Eligibility for this pre-approved visa-on-arrival is extended to Indian nationals possessing a normal passport with a validity of at least six months. Additionally, these individuals must hold a US visa or green card or have EU or UK residency valid for a minimum of six months.

While eligible travelers have been receiving visas on arrival at UAE airports since 2017, the new service allows Emirates customers to proactively arrange their visas, facilitating a smoother arrival process and allowing them to "breeze through customs." The cost of this initiative is $47, along with a service fee of $18.50.

Emirates emphasizes that visa issuance remains at the "absolute discretion of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs."

To apply for this pre-approved visa, customers can access their booking through the airline's digital platforms under 'Manage an existing booking.' Subsequently, they can click on the 'Apply for a UAE visa' link, redirecting them to the online UAE visa application site powered by VFS Global Services. The site outlines requirements, terms, and conditions, guiding applicants through the visa application process.

According to Dubai Tourism statistics, between January and October 2023, Dubai welcomed 2 million overnight visitors from India.

Emirates presently operates 167 weekly flights across nine destinations in India, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram. This initiative aligns with the airline's commitment to enhancing customer experience and facilitating smoother travel processes.