Destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have long attracted millions of travellers to the UAE. To enhance tourism accessibility, the UAE introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa, simplifying travel to the Middle Eastern nation.
Launched in October 2022, the multiple-entry visa revolutionised travel for those planning frequent visits to the UAE by eliminating the need for visa applications each time. Tourists can stay for up to 90 days per visit, with the visa allowing a cumulative stay of 180 days within a year.
Understanding UAE’s five-year multiple-entry visa for tourists
This visa option is ideal for individuals who frequently travel to the UAE for tourism purposes. It’s also beneficial for those with family in cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai, offering the flexibility to visit loved ones without visa-related concerns.
Travellers under this visa category can visit the UAE multiple times over five years, with a maximum stay of 180 days per year. This allows for a total of 900 days in the UAE within the five years, though not consecutively. Additionally, the visa is issued within just 48 hours, adding to its convenience.
Dubai is the top international destination for Indian tourists, according to ACKO Travel Index 2023, and the multiple-entry visa expands travel opportunities for Indians to Dubai. Here’s a breakdown of the application process for Indian travellers.
UAE visa application process:
Applicants travelling to the UAE can apply via the Federal Authorities for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) website. Alternatively, they can visit accredited application centres within India to apply for a long-term visa and gain entry to the UAE.
Documents required:
Applicants must provide the following documents to obtain the visa:
- Personal photo
- Valid passport copy (with at least six months validity)
- Six months’ bank statement showing a minimum bank balance of USD 4,000 (approximately INR 3,31,485), or its equivalent in other currencies
- Valid health insurance details for coverage in the UAE
- Round-trip ticket
Cost:
According to information on the ICP website, here is the cost breakdown for the UAE visa:
Application fee: 100 AED (approx. INR 2,256)
Issuance fee: 500 AED (approx. INR 11,282)
Electronic service: 50 AED (approx. INR 1,128)
(All currency conversions were done at the time of writing)
(Featured image credit: ZQ Lee/Unsplash)
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