Last month, Dubai's immigration department implemented stricter requirements for tourist visa applications, now mandating travelers to provide hotel booking confirmations and a copy of their return tickets
Dubai is one of the favourite tourist destinations for Indians. In 2023, Dubai saw 11.9 million visitors from India, making it the leading country of origin for tourists to the city. This marked a substantial rise from 2022 when 1.84 million Indian tourists visited Dubai.
However, new visa regulations introduced by Dubai's immigration department are creating challenges for Indian tourists planning to visit the city during the Dubai Shopping Festival, scheduled from December 8 to December 14. Last month, the department implemented stricter requirements for tourist visa applications, now mandating travelers to provide hotel booking confirmations and a copy of their return tickets.
Here are the new rules.
Confirmed Return Flight Tickets
As part of the new visa regulations, tourists must provide a copy of their confirmed return flight tickets when applying for a Dubai tourist visa. This requirement aims to ensure that travelers have a clear intention of leaving the city after their visit. Previously, return tickets were only requested if airport officers specifically asked for them, but under the updated rules, they are now mandatory for all applicants.
Proof Of Accommodation
To apply for a tourist visa, travelers are now required to present proof of accommodation. This includes a confirmation of their hotel booking or alternative documentation showing where they will be staying in Dubai during their visit. The authorities are emphasizing the importance of confirming a place to stay to ensure that tourists are well-prepared and secure during their trip.
Financial Resources
Applicants must also show evidence of their financial capacity to cover the expenses of their stay in Dubai. This could include recent bank statements, a letter of sponsorship, or any other documentation proving they have sufficient funds for their trip. The aim is to ensure that tourists can support themselves financially while in the city and do not become a burden on local resources.
Visa Application Submission By Authorized Agents
Tourist visa applications can be processed either online or through authorized travel agents. This provides flexibility to travelers in submitting their visa requests. However, for those applying outside of these channels, such as through trading companies, individuals, or families, the same documentation requirements still apply. This consistency ensures that all applicants adhere to the same set of rules, regardless of the method used for submission.
These new rules are part of Dubai's effort to streamline tourist visa processes and ensure that visitors meet all the necessary criteria before entering the city.