UAE Visa on Arrival for Indians 2026: Latest Rules

Planning a trip to Dubai or another part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)? Before booking your flights, check whether you need to apply for a visa in advance or can get a visa on arrival.

Indian passport holders can qualify for the UAE Visa on Arrival for Indians if they meet specific eligibility requirements. The rules have also expanded, allowing eligible Indian travelers with certain foreign visas or residence permits to use a wider range of qualifying documents than before.

As of October 2026, the UAE recognises a special entry scheme for eligible Indian ordinary passport holders. Depending on the category granted, travellers can receive a 14-day or 60-day visa on arrival. However, simply holding a foreign visa does not automatically guarantee entry.

In this guide, we explain who qualifies, which foreign visas and residence permits are accepted, how much the visa costs, what documents you need, and what to do if you are not eligible.

Also Read: UAE Visa for Indians: Fees, Processing Time, Documents and Apply Online (2026)

1. Can Indians Get a UAE Visa on Arrival in 2026?

Yes, eligible Indian passport holders can get a UAE Visa on Arrival in 2026. However, you must meet the conditions set by UAE immigration authorities.

Indian citizens holding an ordinary passport may qualify if they have a valid visa, residence permit or US Green Card issued by the United States, the United Kingdom or a European Union member state. A valid residence permit from Japan, South Korea, Australia, Canada, Singapore or New Zealand can also qualify under the applicable scheme.

Your passport and supporting documents must meet the relevant validity requirements.

The UAE expanded the qualifying-country list in June 2026, making the facility accessible to more eligible travelers.

Remember: A visa on arrival is not the same as visa-free entry. Eligible Indian travellers still need to complete the applicable entry formalities and pay the relevant fee.

2. What Changed in the UAE Visa on Arrival Rules in 2026?

The key change is the expansion of the qualifying foreign-document list for Indian travelers, alongside a wider scheme covering six additional nationalities.

On 25 June 2026, the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced that nationals of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa could also qualify for the special 14-day or 60-day entry facility if they met the specified residence-status conditions.

The update also recognizes qualifying residence permits from nine jurisdictions.

These are the main points Indian travelers should know:

1. More qualifying documents: Eligible Indians can use the expanded list of foreign visas and residence permits, subject to the applicable conditions.
2. Two possible stay durations: The special scheme includes 14-day and 60-day categories.
3. Different extension rules: The 14-day category can be extended once, while the 60-day category is non-extendable.
4. Passport validity matters: Your passport must generally have at least six months of validity for these special categories.
5. Eligibility is conditional: A qualifying foreign document does not replace the requirement to hold an eligible Indian passport.

The latest official announcement is available on the UAE ICP website.

3. Which Visas and Residence Permits Qualify Indians for a UAE Visa on Arrival?

This is one of the most important questions to answer before traveling.

Eligible Indian ordinary passport holders may qualify through the following documents, depending on the applicable ICP category.

Important distinction: The accepted document type is not identical for every country. The special scheme recognizes qualifying visas, residence permits or a US Green Card for the US, UK and EU categories, while the listed additional jurisdictions are included through qualifying residence permits.

Do not assume that a tourist visa issued by Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore, South Korea or New Zealand will automatically qualify you.

Before travelling, check the precise document requirements on the official ICP service page for the 14-day visa or the 60-day visa service page.

4. Is a Valid US Visa Enough to Get a UAE Visa on Arrival?

A valid US visa can help an Indian passport holder qualify for the special UAE visa-on-arrival facility.

However, you must satisfy the current eligibility conditions, including passport validity and the applicable requirements for the US visa or other qualifying document.

The same principle applies to eligible UK and EU documents.

Keep the following points in mind:

1. Your supporting document must be valid when you travel.
2. Your Indian passport must meet the minimum validity requirement.
3. You must hold an eligible ordinary passport.
4. UAE immigration authorities make the final entry decision.

An expired US visa, UK visa or other supporting document should not be treated as qualifying merely because it was valid in the past.

If your documents do not meet the requirements, consider applying for a UAE tourist visa online before departure.

Also Read: UAE Visa Documents Required for Indian Passport Holders: Complete Guide for 2026

5. How Long Can Indians Stay in the UAE on a Visa on Arrival?

The special UAE entry scheme offers two categories: a 14-day visa and a 60-day visa.

The duration you receive depends on the category issued by UAE immigration authorities.

The special categories also have a pre-entry validity period of 30 days. This is different from the permitted stay after entering the UAE.

For example, a 14-day entry visa does not allow you to remain in the UAE for 30 days. You must follow the permitted stay recorded for your entry.

Always check the entry record or visa issued to you. Do not assume that every Indian traveller receives the same duration.

6. What Is the UAE Visa on Arrival Fee for Indians in 2026?

The official ICP service information lists the following issuance fees for the special entry categories.

These are the listed issuance fees, not necessarily the final amount payable through every service channel. Additional service charges may apply, so confirm the amount shown by the official system before payment.

If you do not qualify for a visa on arrival, the cost of a pre-arranged UAE Visa for Indians will depend on the visa duration, entry type, application channel and any additional service charges.

For that reason, compare the available UAE Visa online options before applying.

7. What Documents Should Indians Carry for a UAE Visa on Arrival?

Even when you qualify for a visa on arrival, keeping your documents ready can make the immigration process easier.

Prepare the following:

1. Valid Indian passport

Carry your original ordinary Indian passport. The special 14-day and 60-day categories require at least six months of passport validity.

2. Qualifying foreign visa or residence permit

Keep a clear copy of the supporting document that establishes your eligibility. Carry the original or accessible digital version where applicable.

3. US Green Card, if applicable

If you qualify through a US Green Card, keep it available for verification.

4. Return or onward ticket

Keep your confirmed travel details ready. An immigration officer or airline may request proof of onward travel.

5. Accommodation details

Keep your hotel reservation or the address where you plan to stay accessible.

6. Proof of sufficient funds

Be prepared to provide financial evidence if requested by the relevant authorities.

The exact documentation requirements can vary by entry category. Check the current ICP service conditions and your airline's travel-document guidance before departure.

Also Read: Applying for a UAE Visa Online? Follow This Easy Step-by-Step Guide

8. How Can Indians Get a UAE Visa on Arrival at the Airport?

If you meet the eligibility requirements, the process is relatively straightforward.

Step 1: Check your eligibility before travelling.

Confirm that your passport and supporting foreign visa or residence permit meet the current requirements.

Step 2: Prepare your travel documents.

Keep your passport, qualifying document and relevant travel details ready for inspection.

Step 3: Arrive at a UAE airport.

Proceed to the designated immigration area and follow the instructions for your entry category.

Step 4: Present your documents.

The immigration authorities will review your passport and supporting documents.

Step 5: Pay the applicable fee.

Pay the fee required for the category issued through the relevant immigration service channel.

Step 6: Check your permitted stay.

Before leaving the immigration area, make sure you understand the authorised stay period and any applicable conditions.

A visa on arrival is subject to immigration approval. Meeting the published eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission in every case.

9. Can Indians Extend a UAE Visa on Arrival?

Yes, the special 14-day category can be extended once, subject to approval and the applicable fee.

The 60-day category is non-extendable under the special scheme.

If you receive a 14-day visa and need more time, check the extension procedure and apply through the appropriate official channel before your permitted stay expires.

Do not assume that a 14-day extension is automatic. Confirm your eligibility, the fee and the revised expiry date with ICP.

If you hold a 60-day visa, you should plan your departure within the authorized period because the special category does not offer an extension.

Also Read: UAE Visa Photo Requirements for Indians: Size, Format and Rules

10. What Happens If You Overstay Your UAE Visa?

Overstaying means remaining in the UAE after your authorised stay has expired.

Under the published rules for the special entry categories, the overstay fine is AED 50 per day after the permitted period expires.

For example, if you remain in the UAE beyond your authorised stay, the fine can increase for every additional day.

To avoid unnecessary problems:

1. Check the expiry date recorded for your entry.
2. Plan your return journey in advance.
3. Apply for an eligible extension before expiry, where permitted.
4. Do not assume that a grace period automatically applies.

Contact the relevant UAE immigration authority if your travel plans change unexpectedly.

Overstaying can create additional immigration complications. If your visa has expired, seek guidance from the appropriate authority rather than assuming that paying a fine resolves every issue.

11. What If You Are Not Eligible for a UAE Visa on Arrival?

If you do not meet the requirements, you should arrange the appropriate visa before travelling.

A pre-arranged UAE tourist or visit visa may be suitable depending on your travel plans and eligibility.

Common options include:

1. 30-day single-entry visa: For a short holiday or visit.
2. 60-day single-entry visa: For a longer visit, subject to eligibility.
3. Multiple-entry visa: For travelers who need to enter and leave the UAE more than once, if eligible.
4. Transit visa: For qualifying travelers passing through the UAE who meet the relevant transit requirements.

The right category depends on your purpose of travel, permitted activities, intended stay and immigration conditions.

You can explore UAE Visa online options through Visa2Fly if you need help understanding the application process, preparing documents or identifying an appropriate visa category.

Visa approval remains subject to the relevant UAE authorities.

12. How Can Indians Apply for a UAE Tourist Visa Online?

If you are not eligible for a visa on arrival, applying in advance can help you organise your travel documents before departure.

Here is a practical approach.

Step 1: Choose the right visa.

Decide whether you need a short-stay tourist visa, a longer visit visa, a multiple-entry visa or another category.

Step 2: Check the requirements.

Review the passport validity, photograph, supporting documents and other requirements for your selected visa.

Step 3: Submit your application.

Use the appropriate official channel or an authorised visa service provider.

Step 4: Pay the applicable charges.

Check the government fee and any service charges before completing payment.

Step 5: Track your application.

Use the relevant reference number or application-tracking service to check your status.

Step 6: Check the approved visa.

Once your visa is issued, review the permitted entry period, duration of stay and entry conditions carefully.

Visa2Fly can help travelers understand the available application options and document requirements when a pre-arranged UAE visa is needed.

Also Read: UAE Visa Delayed? Common Reasons, Processing Issues and What to Do

13. What Is the Difference Between a UAE Visa on Arrival and a UAE Tourist Visa?

Both options can allow eligible travellers to visit the UAE, but the application process is different.

If you qualify for a visa on arrival, you may not need to complete a separate tourist visa application.

If you do not qualify, a pre-arranged Dubai Visa for Indians is generally the appropriate route for tourism.

14. Do These Rules Apply Only to Dubai or to the Entire UAE?

The UAE is made up of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

UAE immigration rules govern entry into the country, rather than creating a separate national visa for each emirate.

Therefore, the relevant UAE entry category is important whether your trip includes Dubai, Abu Dhabi or another emirate.

Dubai is a common arrival destination for Indian travelers, which is why people often search for a Dubai visa on arrival. However, you should verify the applicable UAE entry requirements rather than assuming that rules are different simply because you are visiting a particular emirate.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Dubai from India: Weather and Travel Guide

15. What Should Indians Check Before Flying to the UAE?

Before leaving India, use this checklist to avoid common travel-document mistakes.

1. Your Indian passport is valid for at least six months.
2. Your qualifying foreign visa or residence permit is valid, if applicable.
3. You have confirmed whether your supporting document meets the relevant ICP conditions.
4. Your return or onward travel details are available.
5. Your accommodation details are accessible.
6. You have checked the latest visa fee and any additional service charges.
7. You understand the permitted stay and extension rules for your visa category.
8. You have reviewed the latest official UAE entry requirements.

If you are unsure whether your documents qualify, confirm your status with ICP before travelling. This is particularly important if your foreign visa or residence permit is close to expiry.

Conclusion: How Can You Choose the Right UAE Visa in 2026?

The UAE Visa on Arrival for Indians can make travel easier if you meet the applicable eligibility conditions. The expanded list of qualifying documents provides more options for eligible Indian passport holders, while the special scheme offers 14-day and 60-day stay categories.

However, the most important step is to confirm which document qualifies you. A valid foreign visa does not automatically make every Indian traveller eligible, and the extension rules differ between the two special categories.

If you qualify, prepare your documents, check the fee and understand your permitted stay before flying. If you do not qualify, arrange a suitable visa in advance.

For help understanding your options, preparing your documents or applying for a pre-arranged UAE visa, visit Visa2Fly and review the available UAE Visa online services before planning your trip.

Disclaimer: Visa rules, eligibility conditions and fees can change. This article is for general information and should not replace official immigration guidance. Always verify your individual eligibility and the latest requirements with the UAE ICP or the relevant UAE immigration authority before travelling.

Also Read: Why Dubai is the First Choice of Indian Travelers: Visa, Cost and Travel Guide