Dubai has recently unveiled a game-changing move to enhance travel between India and the Gulf nation. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa, aiming to strengthen the ties between the two countries.
In 2023, Dubai witnessed a significant surge in Indian visitors, reaching 2.46 million overnight stays, marking a remarkable 25% increase from the pre-pandemic era. The latest data from DET revealed that India has become the number one source market for Dubai, surpassing all expectations.
Five-Year Visa – A Strategic Move
To fortify the relationship between India and Dubai, the DET introduced the five-year multiple-entry visa. This strategic step aims to foster sustained economic collaborations, boost tourism, and strengthen business ties between the two nations.
Visa Details and Flexibility
The new visa, issued within 2-5 working days upon service request acceptance, allows holders to stay in the country for 90 days, extendable once for a similar period, with a total stay not exceeding 180 days in a year. This initiative offers tourists the flexibility of multiple entries and exits, catering to various purposes such as business engagements and leisure travel.
India continues to hold its position as the top source market for Dubai, with a remarkable 34% year-on-year growth. In 2023, India played a pivotal role in Dubai’s tourism sector, contributing to a record-breaking performance.
Dubai’s Vision for the Future
Bader Ali Habib, Regional Head of Proximity Markets at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, expressed confidence in India’s role in achieving the goals of the D33 Agenda. He highlighted that this historic initiative will not only enhance the experience for Indian tourists but also pave the way for increased economic collaboration.
The five-year visa offers operational flexibility, allowing tourists to make multiple entries and exits. This feature is expected to facilitate seamless connectivity for business engagements and leisure travel, making Dubai an even more attractive destination for Indian visitors.
Dubai’s Appeal to Indian Tourists
With exceptional flight connectivity and a commitment to the Indian market, Dubai aims to boost awareness of its diverse offerings, multicultural environment, and abundance of hotels and attractions. The city aspires to maintain its position as the top travel choice for Indian tourists.
In 2023, Dubai welcomed a staggering 17.15 million international overnight visitors, marking a substantial 19.4% growth compared to the 14.36 million arrivals in 2022. This growth is indicative of Dubai’s resilience as a leading global tourist destination.
Looking Towards the Future
As Dubai continues to attract visitors from around the world, the introduction of the five-year multiple-entry visa for Indian tourists stands as a significant milestone. This move not only strengthens the ties between India and Dubai but also positions the city as a hub for business, investment, and tourism in the years to come.
