Visa on Arrival in UAE for Indians – Exploring New Horizons Beyond Dubai

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a famous travel destination. Often known for its glitzy charm, Dubai is often known. However, there are many other uncharted experiences outside of Dubai. When recent changes in visa on arrival rules for Indians with US, UK or EU gotten visa have become easier to explore these experiences. New opportunities for travelers open with the relaxed visa policy.

The Indian passport holders are free to explore the country due to the UAE government. Now, based on valid visa from America, United Kingdom or any European Union member state, they are now offering visa on arrival. The UAE is trying to attract international travelers with such a policy. It will also strengthen the UAE ties with India and make travel easier for Indian visitors, the UAE officials said. This will also boost tourism.

Indian passport holders are be given visa on arrival at the major entry points in UAE. In order to qualify, a valid visa to the US, UK or EU, as proof of entry into the UAE must be valid up to minimum six months from the date of entry into UAE. Normally visa on arrival is valid for 14 days and can be extended based on travel plans. The UAE tries to become more accessible, that is, the bigger number of tourists each year. With more than 16 million visitors in 2023, Dubai stood as sole host. Huge number of them were from India.

Visa on Arrival in UAE for Indians: Exploring Opportunities Beyond Dubai - 95dubai.com — Visa on Arrival in UAE for Indians: Exploring Opportunities Beyond Dubai – 95dubai.com

Venturing Beyond Dubai: Top 4 Places to Visit

Any UAE trip usually revolves around Dubai. The famous skyline and busy malls may be what we think of when we think of Dubai, but there’s much more to see. Below mentioned are four amazing places for Indian travelers, not limited to Dubai.

UAE’s capital city is Abu Dhabi. It is a mix of luxury and culture. One of its great attractions is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Here, there is the beauty of traditional Islamic architecture and tourists come here to enjoy it.

Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld, both good for thrill seekers, are at home to this city. 5 million visitors visited Abu Dhabi in 2023, according to a 2023 report from the Department of Culture and Tourism. That proves its growing popularity among international travelers.

If you are visiting Abu Dhabi, then the Loure Abu Dhabi is another place you have to go to. The art shown herein comes from every other country in the world. Perhaps it proves the UAE’s commitment to cultural diversity. The Mangrove National Park is the place to go when you want to experience nature. You’ll be able to kayak through the calm waterways and experience the special ecosystem.

The UAE refers to Al Ain as the ‘Garden City’. Its historical landmarks and natural beauty are offered. Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It helps to give you a glimpse into the UAE’s agricultural past. The oasis has more than 147,000 date palms on some 3,000 acres. Jebel Hafeet, the second highest peak in the UAE, there are also views to be had. Over 4,000 animals, it is also worth a visit to Al Ain Zoo.

History lovers will love Al Ain. Al Jahili Fort is one of the oldest built structures in the UAE. It shows the region’s heritage and defense strategies earlier. The Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority says the fort is significant for its cultural value and its ability to preserve Emirati heritage.

In 1998, UNESCO declared Sharjah the Cultural Capital of the Arab World. The road provides travelers a chance to experience the traditional and the cultural side of the UAE. Visiting journey begins with the key attraction at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. The artifacts include rare manuscripts and scientific instruments that it has over 5,000 of them.

Sharjah is very much a culture and education focused city. International exhibitions, workshops and artist residencies are organized by the Sharjah Art Foundation. Over 2 million tourists visited Sharjah in 2023, some of them to visit the cultural landmarks. Another exciting one is Sharjah Desert Park. Families will also love it, and there is the Arabian Wildlife Center for the learning of all varieties of wildlife in the area.

The UAE’s northernmost tip is Ras Al Khaimah. If you’re wanting some adventure, and some natural beauty along the way then this is perfect. There are lots to do in Jebel Jais, including the Jebel Jais Flight, which takes place in Jebel Jais, the highest peak in UAE. It’s the world’s longest zipline, recognized by Guinness World Records. As one of the more rugged parts, Ras Al Khaimah is famous for being a camping and hiking hot spot.

Ras Al Khaimah is also rich in history. A fort in which the ruling family lived is now the home of the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah. It provides glimpses into the region’s past stretching back from ancient settlements to the pearling tradition. Ras Al Khaimah is also increasingly a destination for eco tourism. It offers ‘sustainable and responsible travel experiences’ to tourists.

The biggest development in visa affairs of the UAE is the decision to grant visa on arrival to Indian travelers with US or UK or EU visas. This makes new opportunities for exploration. There is so much more than Dubai, beyond. What’s great about the UAE is it has culture, adventure and natural beauty. Sharjah is rich in culture. Al Ain is chock full of historical charm. Abu Dhabi offers luxury. The sporty Ras Al Khaimah is for the adventurers. Everyone can find something for their travel.

Reference List

India Today. Visa on Arrival in UAE for Indians on US, UK, EU Visa: 4 Places Beyond Dubai to Visit. India Today. October 18, 2024.
Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi. Tourism Statistics Report 2023. Abu Dhabi Government, 2023.
Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority. Cultural Heritage and Attractions in Al Ain. Abu Dhabi Government, 2023.
Sharjah Art Foundation. Sharjah’s Cultural Events and Exhibitions. Sharjah Government, 2023.
Guinness World Records. Jebel Jais Flight: The World’s Longest Zipline. Guinness World Records, 2023.