Indian tourists, long accustomed to smooth visa approvals for Dubai, are now facing a wave of unexpected rejections. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced stricter visa application requirements, causing frustration and financial losses for many travelers. Reports from the Times of India (TOI) reveal that rejection rates, previously under 2%, have now risen to 5–6% daily.
New Visa Requirements: The change stems from recent mandates by Dubai's immigration department. Applicants must now submit hotel booking confirmations with QR codes and return flight tickets directly to the immigration portal. Those staying with family or friends must provide additional proof of accommodation.
These stricter measures have disrupted what was once a seamless process for Indian tourists, whose visa approval rate historically stood at an impressive 99%.
Industry Concerns: Travel agencies are witnessing a notable shift in approval trends. Nikhil Kumar, director of Passio Travels Pvt Ltd, expressed his frustration to TOI:
"Even when confirmed flight tickets and meticulous hotel stay details are attached, the visa applications are being rejected."
Kumar’s agency reports 5–6 rejections per day out of 100 submissions, a significant jump compared to earlier times.
Similarly, Vijay Thakkar of Hasmukh Travels highlighted cases where applications, even with complete documentation, were inexplicably denied. The financial burden on travelers, including visa fees and ticket cancellation charges, often totals over Rs 30,000 per person.
Emotional and Financial Strain: Travelers are reeling from the uncertainty. Rishikesh Pujari, director of Vihar Travels, shared an instance where a family of four had their visas rejected despite adhering to all requirements. The rejection, he noted, not only dampens spirits but also results in significant monetary losses.
Many travelers have expressed dismay at losing pre-booked flight and hotel expenses. This shift has cast a shadow over what was traditionally an exciting and straightforward travel experience.
Added Financial Scrutiny: The revised rules also demand proof of financial means. Applicants must show minimum funds of AED 5,000 (approximately Rs 1.14 lakh) for a two-month visa and AED 3,000 for shorter stays. Previously, such checks were conducted selectively at the airport. Now, they are mandatory, adding another hurdle for prospective visitors.
Broader Implications: The tightened visa regulations reflect a broader move by UAE authorities to enhance oversight and ensure financial transparency. However, the sudden changes have caught Indian travelers and travel agencies off guard, leading to calls for more predictable and traveler-friendly processes.
For now, the allure of Dubai—with its iconic skyscrapers, world-class shopping, and luxurious lifestyle—remains as strong as ever. Yet, the dream of experiencing this Gulf city has become notably harder to achieve.
Travelers and industry stakeholders are hopeful for a recalibration of the new rules, seeking a return to the ease and reliability of the past.