THE NEWS: Abu Dhabi will issue up to 20,000 complimentary 30‑day tourist visas to eligible Indian travellers who visit between 1 August and 31 October 2026. The pilot scheme, launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), is intended to attract more Indian visitors to the emirate.
DETAILS:
- The visa is free of charge and allows a stay of up to thirty days in the United Arab Emirates.
- Eligibility is limited to Indian nationals meeting the programme’s criteria.
- DCT Abu Dhabi highlighted India as one of its most important international markets.
- A senior DCT Abu Dhabi official said the emirate remains committed to working closely with India.
WHY IT MATTERS: By removing visa costs for a sizable pool of Indian tourists, Abu Dhabi hopes to boost inbound travel demand, creating new revenue opportunities for airlines, tour operators, hotels and other tourism‑related businesses targeting the fast‑growing Indian outbound market.
FAQ
When can Indian travellers use the complimentary UAE visa offered by Abu Dhabi?
Indian travellers can use the free 30‑day UAE tourist visa if they travel to Abu Dhabi between 1 August and 31 October 2026, giving them a month‑long stay in the United Arab Emirates.
How many complimentary visas will Abu Dhabi initially make available to Indian visitors?
The pilot programme will initially provide up to 20,000 complimentary 30‑day tourist visas for eligible Indian visitors, with the allocation limited to this number for the August‑October 2026 travel window.
Which Abu Dhabi department is behind the visa pilot programme?
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is launching the pilot visa scheme, emphasizing India as a key market and pledging continued close cooperation with Indian partners.
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