Indian travellers planning to visit Dubai are encountering significant challenges after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) enforced stricter tourist visa requirements.
Reports show a sharp rise in visa rejections, leaving many potential visitors frustrated and financially burdened.
Previously, Dubai enjoyed an almost perfect approval rate for tourist visas, with 99% of applications getting the green light. However, under the new rules, even meticulously prepared applications are being turned down. According to reports, the visa rejection rate has now surged to 5-6% daily, a notable increase from the earlier 1-2%.
Stricter visa requirements
The UAE has recently rolled out a series of stringent norms for those applying for tourist visas. Applicants must now provide detailed documentation, including confirmed hotel bookings and return flight tickets. For individuals planning to stay with relatives, proof of accommodation from the host is mandatory. Additionally, travellers are required to submit financial documents to prove their ability to sustain themselves during their stay. This includes providing bank statements for the last three months, showing a minimum balance of ₹50,000, and a copy of their PAN card.
These measures aim to ensure that visitors have concrete plans and sufficient resources for their trip. However, these requirements have created hurdles for many travellers who might struggle to meet the financial benchmarks or provide detailed documentation.
Impact on travelers
The rising rejection rates have led to widespread uncertainty among Indian tourists, causing significant financial losses. Many travellers are losing money on non-refundable visa fees, pre-booked flights, and hotel reservations. The situation is particularly troubling for those who had already planned and paid for their trips, as they now face the dual burden of reapplying or abandoning their plans altogether.
Travel agents have reported an increase in the number of inquiries regarding visa rejections, with applicants seeking clarity on the new requirements. Some agencies have also started advising clients to carefully review the updated guidelines and ensure all necessary documents are in order before applying.
Dubai, a popular destination for Indian tourists, is known for its vibrant culture, luxury shopping, and iconic landmarks. However, the new visa rules reflect the UAE’s broader efforts to tighten immigration policies and ensure compliance with entry norms. While these measures may enhance security and order, they have also added complexities for genuine tourists.
