In a significant development, Emirates, Dubai’s leading airline, has introduced a groundbreaking pre-approved visa-on-arrival service for Indian passport holders who have booked their travel with the airline. This move aims to enhance the travel experience for Indian passengers and streamline arrival formalities.
Simplifying Arrival Procedures
Emirates has collaborated with the Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC) to facilitate a hassle-free process for Indian travellers. The pre-approved visa, issued as a 14-day single entry permit, enables passengers to bypass long queues upon arrival in Dubai. This strategic initiative by Emirates reflects a commitment to customer convenience and a seamless travel experience.
Eligibility Criteria
The new visa-on-arrival service is exclusively available to Indian passport holders meeting specific eligibility criteria. To qualify, travellers must possess a valid six-month US, US Green Card, EU Residency, or UK Residency. Emirates emphasizes that visa issuance remains at the discretion of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA).
Partnering with VFS Global
The service is facilitated by VFS Global, a renowned document collection and processing agency serving several nations globally. DVPC, designated by Emirates and Dubai governments, operates under the umbrella of VFS Global. This facility processes UAE visas through an online portal seamlessly integrated with Emirates’ official website.
India: A Key Market for Dubai Tourism
India continues to hold its position as Dubai’s primary source market for tourist arrivals. According to Dubai Tourism, the city welcomed a staggering 2 million overnight visitors from India between January and October 2023. The introduction of the pre-approved visa-on-arrival service by Emirates is poised to further strengthen the ties between these two travel hubs.
Extensive Network in India
Emirates currently operates flights to nine destinations across India, with 167 weekly flights connecting travellers to Dubai and onwards to a global network comprising more than 140 destinations. The airline’s extensive network in India includes Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram.
How Can Indian Travellers Avail the Visa on Arrival?
Travellers from India looking to benefit from this innovative service can book their flights through emirates.com or their preferred travel agent. Upon retrieving their booking through ‘Manage an existing booking’ on emirates.com, customers should click on the ‘apply for a UAE visa’ link. This will redirect them to the online UAE Visa application site powered by VFS Global Services, providing clear requirements, terms, and conditions for a streamlined visa application process.
In conclusion, Emirates’ introduction of the pre-approved on-arrival service for Indian travellers underscores its commitment to enhancing the overall travel experience. By simplifying procedures, the airline aims to attract more Indian passengers and contribute to the continued growth of Dubai’s tourism industry. This strategic move positions Emirates as a pioneer in offering innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the modern traveller.