Indian Airlines Issue New Travel Guidelines for Dubai Visit Visa Holders

Important updates for Indian travellers planning a trip to Dubai! Several Indian airlines have recently issued new guidelines for passengers holding visit visas. These directives aim to ensure smoother and more hassle-free journeys for Indian travellers heading to Dubai and other parts of the UAE.

Mandatory Requirements for Travel

Indian airlines such as Air India Express, IndiGo and SpiceJet have distributed advisories to travel agents both in India and the UAE. These advisories emphasize the importance of carrying specific documents for travel.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points you need to know:

1. Financial Resources: Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay. The amount may vary depending on the visa duration – approximately INR 68,000 for a one-month visit and INR 1.3 lakh for a longer stay. You can carry this amount in cash or provide evidence of it in your bank account.

2. Valid Travel Documents: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your intended arrival date in Dubai.

3. Proof of Onward Travel & Accommodation: Carry a confirmed return flight ticket to demonstrate your exit from the UAE and a confirmed hotel reservation document must be readily available.

4. Additional Documents (Optional): If you’re visiting relatives or friends residing in the UAE, carrying documents proving their residency can be helpful.

Book a Return Flight on the Same Airline!

Other recent advisories indicate that travellers to the UAE on visit visas should book their return tickets with the same airline they fly into the country. This recommendation follows incidents where passengers faced boarding denials for booking their onward and return flights on different airlines.

Although no Indian airline has officially confirmed this policy, travel agents warn that failing to comply with the emerging guidelines could lead to boarding issues.

Why Are These Guidelines Important?

These guidelines were implemented in response to recent instances where passengers were denied boarding due to missing documentation. Airlines are now enforcing stricter checks to ensure travellers meet all entry requirements set by the UAE immigration authorities.

Also Read: Travelling to Dubai? New Online Pre-Approval Simplifies Visa-On-Arrival Process

What Happens If You Don’t Have the Required Documents?

Failing to comply with these guidelines could result in:

• Denied boarding at the departure airport in India.
• Deportation from Dubai upon arrival.
• Financial penalties are charged to the travel agency that booked your ticket (which may be passed on to you).

Travel Agents Advise Being Well-Prepared

Travel agents in both India and Dubai recommend that passengers take these guidelines seriously and ensure they have all the necessary documentation before booking their flights. This will help avoid any last-minute hassles and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Key Takeaways for Travellers

To avoid travel disruptions, passengers travelling from India to the UAE are advised to:

• Ensure their passport is valid for at least six months.
• Have a confirmed return ticket.
• Provide proof of accommodation.
• Carry or have accessible funds as specified for their visa duration.
• Present additional documents if staying with friends or relatives in the UAE.

By adhering to these guidelines, travellers can facilitate a smoother journey and avoid potential complications during their travels to Dubai and other UAE destinations.