In a move to boost tourism in Abu Dhabi and also the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) has launched an attractive new initiative. As per this new initiative, Indian passport holders will get a complimentary UAE visa provided they make bookings via selected travel partners. The programme is available from August 1 to October 31. However, before you apply for this, there are a number of things you need to keep in mind if you’re hoping to get the free UAE Visa for Indians.
Who Is Eligible For The Free UAE Visa?
The programme is primarily launched for the travel agencies and travel partners participating in it. In order to be eligible for the free UAE Visa, you must book at least three consecutive nights in a hotel via one of the travel agencies.
Upon doing that, you will be eligible for a visa without any additional costs. It is important to note that the bookings must be done exclusively through one of the participating travel partners. Indian passport holders cannot independently apply for a free visa to the UAE.
So, in simple words, Indian passport holders who are departing from India and book a stay via one of the participating travel agencies are eligible for this free UAE Visa.
Also Read: Do You Need Separate Visas For Dubai And Abu Dhabi? UAE Visa Rules, Costs & Application Guide
Till When Is The Abu Dhabi Free UAE Visa For Indians Available?
The program is available for a total of three months. It officially began on August 1 and will end on October 31. As per the Director of International Operations at the DCT, Abdulla Yousuf, this program is to make Abu Dhabi and the UAE a more attractive destination for travelers.
How Many Free Visas Is Abu Dhabi Offering?
Another one of the biggest catches of this programme is the cap. Since this is a pilot programme, the number of visas granted via this programme is capped at 20,000. The number of visas might increase if and when this pilot programme is extended.
If qualified, Indian travelers will save around INR 7,500 on visa costs. This makes traveling to the UAE all the more attractive.
Also Read: UAE Launches Blue Visa, Here’s Everything To Know
Summing Up
India is one of the biggest markets for tourism in the UAE. By covering the cost of the visa, the UAE becomes a more hassle-free destination for Indian passport holders. This initiative is a unique opportunity for Indian travelers to visit Abu Dhabi while saving money on visa costs. It is also a creative way of attracting more tourists to Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
