Dubai (UAE) visa for Indians

As of mid-2026, Indian passport holders should confirm UAE entry requirements directly on the official government portals before booking. The UAE's visa services run through two official channels: the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) for national-level visa services, and Dubai's own GDRFA for Dubai-specific entry permits and residence visas. Indian nationals meeting certain criteria (such as holding valid US, UK, or Schengen visas/residence) have in the past qualified for visa-on-arrival — but eligibility criteria are specific and change, so confirm directly rather than assuming.

Where to check the current rules

Both were last checked for this guide on 27 June 2026. Eligibility criteria (including any visa-on-arrival provisions tied to other visas you hold) are specific and can change — confirm directly rather than relying on this or any third-party summary.

What to have ready before you check

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
  • Return or onward flight confirmation.
  • Proof of accommodation for your stay.
  • If relying on a visa-on-arrival provision tied to another visa (e.g. US/UK/Schengen), that visa/residence document itself, valid per the current official criteria.

Planning your trip

Once you've confirmed your entry route, see our upcoming Dubai itinerary guide covering city, desert and beach.

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Dubai/UAE?

Confirm directly on the official ICP or GDRFA Dubai portals — some Indian passport holders have qualified for visa-on-arrival based on other visas they hold (like US, UK or Schengen), but the exact criteria are specific and change.

What's the difference between ICP and GDRFA Dubai?

ICP handles UAE federal-level visa services, while GDRFA Dubai handles Dubai-specific entry permits and residence visas — check both if your visit centers on Dubai.

Can Indian passport holders get a UAE visa on arrival?

Some can, based on specific existing visas/residence they hold (such as US, UK, or Schengen) — but eligibility criteria are precise and change, so confirm on the official ICP portal before assuming you qualify.

What documents are commonly needed regardless of entry route?

A passport valid at least 6 months beyond your travel dates, proof of onward/return travel, and proof of accommodation are commonly requested.

Where can I get the most current answer?

The ICP portal (icp.gov.ae) and GDRFA Dubai (gdrfad.gov.ae) are the two official government sources for UAE and Dubai entry requirements respectively.

United Arab Emirates
Middle East & Africa