Abu Dhabi Tourism: Abu Dhabi has launched a special initiative for Indian travelers. Eligible Indian passport holders will be granted a UAE tourist visa for free, subject to specific conditions, making travel more affordable.

UAE Free Visa News: Traveling abroad is a dream for many. If you are planning an overseas trip, this news is relevant to you. Visiting Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), could now be more affordable than before. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has recently launched a special initiative under which eligible Indian passport holders will receive a UAE tourist visa at no extra cost, subject to certain conditions. The primary objective of this scheme is to attract more Indian tourists to Abu Dhabi.

Who is eligible for the free UAE visa?

• This facility is available to Indian passport holders.
• Travelers must undertake their journey between August 1 and October 31, 2026.
• To avail of this scheme, a minimum stay of three nights in Abu Dhabi must be booked.
• Bookings under this new scheme must be made through participating travel partners or online travel agencies.
• Visa support will be provided for up to 20,000 visas in the initial phase.

Why was this initiative launched?

According to officials from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, India is considered one of their most important international tourism markets. Recent tensions and conflicts in West Asia have impacted the tourism and aviation sectors. Consequently, the department stated that the main goal of this new initiative is to make Abu Dhabi more accessible and attractive to Indian travelers.

How will the visa process be simplified?

Travel partners can complete the visa process through their authorized Destination Management Companies (DMCs).
In certain cases, the visa costs will be covered directly by the Department of Tourism. If a travel partner continues working with their existing DMC, the department will reimburse up to AED 285 for each visa issued.

How will Indian travelers benefit?

• The Abu Dhabi Department of Tourism will bear the entire cost of the UAE entry visa.
• This will reduce the initial budget for a trip to the UAE.
• Visiting Abu Dhabi could become more affordable than before.
• Travel agencies will be able to offer better deals and packages to customers.
• It presents an opportunity for international travel at a lower cost.

Points to consider before traveling

• Travelers will receive the free visa only on eligible bookings.
• Travel dates and the duration of the hotel stay must comply with the scheme's terms and conditions.
• Be sure to check the availability of the offer with the relevant travel agency or partner before booking.