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Dubai Transit Visa for Indians

TeamAckoJan 29, 2024

For Indians who wish to travel through Dubai to some other destination and spend some time there before their next flight, they require a UAE transit visa. This visa allows you to have a layover in one of the Dubai airports as well as get a tour of the country. While travelling to a certain destination, if you have a layover in Dubai that is more than 8 hours, you will then require a transit visa to complete your travel.

Let's go over all you need to know about obtaining a Dubai transit visa for Indians and its specific details.

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Contents

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Do Indians Need a Visa in Dubai for Transit? 

Yes, Indians require a UAE transit visa while travelling through Dubai. However, there are certain conditions under which this is applicable. If you are not eligible for a visa on arrival for Indians, you need to apply for a transit visa for Dubai/UAE. Furthermore, if you have a layover in Dubai for more than 8 hours and intend to leave the airport to explore the place, you mandatorily need a transit visa. 

The Dubai transit visa for Indians is a single-entry permit provided to persons who have to stay more than 8 hours in Dubai or the UAE as part of airport transit. 

Types of Dubai Transit Visa for Indians

There are two types of Dubai transit visas for Indians. We have discussed the categories below.

48-hour Transit Visa

This visa is granted to tourists whose layover in the city is between 8 to 48 hours. It is a transit visa with a single entrance. You must apply for an Indian transit visa in advance to avoid issues during entrance.

96-hour Transit Visa

The Dubai 96-hour visa is provided to those who will be in Dubai for 8 to 96 hours. This is likewise a one-time entrance visa. As a result, you must depart the United Arab Emirates within 96 hours after your entry.

Validity of Dubai Transit Visa for Indians

The duration of your transit visa in Dubai is determined by the type of visa you apply for. If you apply for a 48-hour UAE visa, for example, the visa is valid for 12 days. However, you are only permitted to stay in Dubai for 48 hours.

The 96-hour UAE visa also has a 12-day validity period. However, once in Dubai, you are only permitted to stay for 96 hours.

Fees of Dubai Transit Visa for Indians 

Now that you know the types and validity of different types of transit visas available for Indians, here is a list showcasing the Dubai transit visas for Indian prices.

Dubai Transit Visa for Indians 

Fee

48-hour Transit Visa

Free of cost for Indians 

96-hour Transit Visa

AED 50 or Rs. 1135 (As per current exchange rate) 

Documents Required for Transit Visa for Indians

You need the following documents for obtaining a Dubai transit visa for Indians: 

  • A valid passport.

  • A passport image photo on a plain background. It is important to ensure that you review Dubai visa photo specifications. 

  • The ticket for your final destination.

Passport Requirements

While submitting the documents, make sure your passport meets the following requirements:

  • Passport is valid for at least six months after your proposed travel date.

  • Make sure that your passport has a minimum of 2 blank pages left.

Please note that the officers would deny your visa application if your passport does not fulfil these Dubai transit visa requirements

What Documents to Bring Along to Dubai?

There are certain documents that the Dubai airport officials will check after you have landed in the city and enjoy your layover. The documents you must bring along to avoid rejection of entry are as follows:

  • Transit visa: You should keep a copy of your visa just in case.

  • Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months, with at least 2 free pages from it.

  • A copy of your flight voucher for your third destination. You should copy your visa to avoid any future problems

How to Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa for Indians?

Before you travel, you must apply for a Dubai Transit Visa for Indians. However, like with other types of UAE visas, you cannot apply for this visa at a UAE embassy or consulate by yourself. You must have a sponsor who will apply for the visa on your behalf. 

Only a UAE-based airline can serve as a sponsor if you require a transit visa to Dubai/UAE. They are responsible for obtaining your transit visa from the applicable visa-issuing agencies in the UAE. So, if you know you'll be stopping in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or another emirate on your route to a third destination, you should call your airline to begin the process of acquiring your transit visa.

Airline agents can apply for Dubai transit visas online using the following methods:

  • The eChannels website

  • The ICA UAE eChannels app is available for both Apple and Android devices

Processing Time for Dubai Transit Visa for Indians

Your application will be processed within 3-5 business days. However, depending on when you apply, and where you apply, your visa processing period may be extended. Keep track of your visa status on a frequent basis to stay updated.

Things to Remember While Applying for a Dubai Transit Visa for Indians 

Bear in mind certain Dubai transit rules if you have a Dubai Transit Visa for India. However, you must remember that these visas are meant exclusively for transit purposes and not for staying. However, if you intend to remain in the UAE, you should carefully consider various types of visas available for stay. 

  • Consequently, the visas are meant to serve a short-term period only. Therefore, transit visas cannot be renewed after expiration. As a result, you should organise your visit in such a way as not to exceed the duration of the visa.

  • You must remember that a transit visa can only be granted if there is evidence of subsequent travel. In this case, it could be for air tickets or ferry tickets again, contingent upon your means of transportation. If you don’t possess this evidence of forward migration, then there are good chances of getting rejected by those concerned officials who shall review your visa application.

  • Moreover, remember that getting permission to enter Dubai using the transit visa might not permit performing certain actions in Dubai except having an extra licensing procedure.

Final Words

Applying for a Dubai transit visa for Indians is now easier than ever, and the documents necessary are minimal. So, what are you holding out for? Start arranging your trip today and travel with comfort. 

Also, do not forget to purchase travel insurance before starting your trip. Travel insurance can save a lot of your precious money from being wasted in unwanted circumstances. 

Happy journey, happy transit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding the Dubai transit visa for Indians.

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Is a transit visa required for Dubai if I am not leaving the airport?

No. If you do not exit the transit area, you do not require a Dubai Transit Visa for Indians. If you want to leave the airport and tour Dubai, you'll need to apply for a transit visa. 

Who Is Exempt From a Transit Visa in the UAE?

Travellers from the following countries do not need to obtain a Dubai transit visa for Indians to enter Dubai or any other emirate in the United Arab Emirates: 

  • Bahrain
  • Kuwait
  • Oman
  • Saudi Arabia.  

 

What is the duration of the Dubai Transit Visa for Indian citizens?

The duration of a Dubai Transit Visa for Indian citizens can vary, but it is generally issued for a short period, typically ranging from 48 hours to 96 hours (2 to 4 days). The specific duration may depend on the purpose of the transit and the airline or immigration policies.

Can the Dubai Transit Visa for Indians be extended?

In most cases, the Dubai Transit Visa for Indian citizens is not extendable. Travellers should plan their stay within the permitted duration specified on the visa. If there is a need for an extended stay in Dubai, it is advisable to explore other visa options, such as a tourist visa, and comply with the immigration regulations of the United Arab Emirates. 

Can Indian citizens apply for a Dubai Transit Visa if their layover is longer than the standard duration?

If your layover exceeds the standard duration allowed on a Dubai Transit Visa, you may need to consider alternative visa options, such as a tourist visa. Transit visas are typically issued for short stays, and if your layover is longer, it's advisable to check with the airline or immigration authorities for guidance on the most suitable visa category.

Is a Dubai Transit Visa for Indian citizens applicable to all airlines flying through Dubai?

Not all airlines offer transit visa services for their passengers. It's essential to check with the specific airline you are travelling with to determine if they provide transit visa assistance. Some airlines have partnerships with immigration authorities to facilitate visa processes, while others may require passengers to apply independently. 

Can Indian citizens convert a Dubai Transit Visa into a different visa category if they wish to extend their stay in Dubai?

Typically, Dubai Transit Visas are non-convertible into other visa categories. If Indian citizens wish to extend their stay in Dubai, they may need to apply for a different visa, such as a tourist visa, and comply with the immigration regulations of the United Arab Emirates. It's advisable to plan the duration of stay accordingly and choose the appropriate visa category for an extended visit.

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