LATEST ISSUE

February 2024

Volume 24 | Issue 01

Dubai announces 5-year multiple entry visa for India
 
Dubai has introduced a fiveyear multiple-entry visa to enhance travel between India and Dubai, reflecting the commitment to sustained economic collaborations and encouraging tourism and business ties. The visa, issued within two to five working days, allows a 90-day stay, extendable once, with a total stay not exceeding 180 days in a year. Dubai experienced a surge in tourism from India, welcoming 2.46 million overnight visitors between January and December 2023, as reported by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This signifies a substantial increase from the 1.84 million tourists in 2022, surpassing the pre-pandemic figure of 1.97 million visitors in 2019, showcasing an impressive 25 per cent growth compared to the pre-pandemic era. India, with a remarkable 34 per cent year-on-year growth, maintains its position as the leading source market for Dubai, contributing significantly to the city’s record-breaking tourism performance in 2023. Aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, over a year ago, this growth aims to consolidate Dubai’s standing as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure. Bader Ali Habib, Regional Head of Proximity Markets at Dubai Department of Economy, and Tourism highlighted the long-standing relationship with India and the significant contribution of Indian tourists to Dubai’s record-breaking tourism sector in 2023.

The introduction of the five-year visa is seen as a strategic step to deepen ties and explore possibilities between the UAE and India. “Dubai values its long-standing relationship with India, and our inbound visitation from the market in 2023 was outstanding, contributing to a recordbreaking performance by our tourism sector. As a key market for Dubai, India will continue to play an integral role in enabling us to achieve the goals of the D33 Agenda, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a hub for business, investment, and tourism.  The five-year multiple entry visa initiative signifies a strategic step towards deepening our already existing ties with India. This historic milestone will not only open doors to a longer and more enriching experience for Indian tourists but also provide a platform for increased economic collaboration. It is also a testament to Dubai’s commitment to India and the infinite possibilities that can be explored between the UAE and the sub-continent. With exceptional flight connectivity and our ongoing commitment to the Indian market, we are confident that our upcoming initiatives will further amplify awareness about Dubai’s diverse offerings, multicultural setting, and abundance of hotels and attractions, continuing to make it the top travel choice for Indian tourists,” says Bader Ali Habib, Regional Head of Proximity Markets, Dubai Department of Economy, and Tourism. In 2023, Dubai recorded its highest ever tourist influx, welcoming 17.15 million international overnight visitors, reflecting a 19.4 per cent year-on-year growth. Recognized as the No.1 global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations Awards 2024 for the third consecutive year, Dubai’s diverse offerings and commitment to excellence in hospitality contribute to its popularity among global travellers. The UAE and India, as a key economic partner, continue to foster cultural exchanges, diplomatic cooperation, and robust trade ties, making Dubai a preferred destination catering to various traveller preferences.

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