The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa waiver programme for Indian nationals and their families holding regular passports.

Effective February 13, 2025, Indian citizens with valid visas, residency permits, or Green Cards from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada will be eligible for the programme.

This expansion adds to a previous list that included the United States, European Union nations, and the United Kingdom.

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) announced that Indian passport holders meeting these criteria will be able to enter the UAE without a prior visa at all approved entry points.

To qualify, their passports must have a minimum validity of six months.

Upon arrival, eligible travelers will receive entry visas provided they pay the applicable fees and comply with local regulations.

The fee for a 14-day entry visa for Indian nationals and their family members is set at Dh100, while an extension for another 14 days costs Dh250.

A longer 60-day visa is also available for Dh250.

This visa waiver is intended to enhance travel convenience for Indian nationals and their families, reflecting the long-standing historical and cultural ties between India and the UAE.

The initiative aims to facilitate greater opportunities for living, working, and investing within the UAE.

Officials believe that this change will not only enhance the UAE’s appeal as a tourism and investment destination but also potentially attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs from India.

The move is part of the UAE's broader strategy to bolster its position as a global economic and financial center.