New tourist visa regulations in Dubai require QR code-enabled hotel bookings and return tickets

Stricter restrictions for acquiring a tourist visa have been implemented by the Dubai emigration department, which now requires tourists to present a copy of their return ticket and hotel booking paperwork with a QR code.

In order to avoid delays in the visa application procedure, travel agencies have been directed to make sure that these documents are presented during the application process.

The revised rules require that return tickets and hotel booking paperwork be uploaded to the emigration department's website at the time of application; they are no longer optional.

While trading companies, individuals, or families may obtain visit visas, only travel agencies are permitted to apply for tourist visas. Nonetheless, both visa categories are subject to the same regulations.

Applicants must ensure their credit or debit cards have sufficient funds when applying for a visa. The required balance is 5,000 Dirhams (approximately ₹115,000) for a two-month visa, and 3,000 Dirhams (around ₹69,000) for a three-month visa.

The failure to provide this documentation has apparently caused processing delays for several applicants. In the past, travelers just had to provide their hotel reservations and return tickets when asked to do so by airport emigration officials.

These regulations, which are already in place for citizens of Pakistan and a number of African countries, are meant to guarantee compliance and streamline the visa application process.

It is still not clear, though, if foreigners living in the United Arab Emirates must provide the same paperwork when requesting visiting visas for their families.

For individuals who intend to visit Dubai, the new regulations highlight the significance of careful planning in order to prevent travel delays.

Indian passport holders who want to go to Dubai have a variety of visa options that can accommodate both quick trips and longer stays.

These include the recently implemented five-year multiple-entry visa, non-extendable visas, and visa-on-arrival.

Indian travelers have the option to apply for a 14-day visa-on-arrival in Dubai, which can be extended for an additional 14 days.

To be eligible, they must either have a passport valid for at least six months from the arrival date or hold a valid USA visit visa, USA green card, UK residence visa, or EU residence visa.

This provides flexibility for short-term visits, as long as the eligibility conditions are met.

For those seeking a longer stay, a 60-day non-extendable visa is available. The application fees for this visa are in accordance with UAE regulations, making it an ideal option for tourists or visitors with family and friends in Dubai.

Additionally, Dubai has introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa for Indian citizens, enhancing tourism and commercial relations between the two nations.

This visa is designed for frequent travelers, including business professionals, regular tourists, and those with family ties in Dubai, allowing for multiple visits over a longer period.