Indians Face Mass Dubai Visa Rejections After Rule Changes

Indian travelers are now facing a sharp rise in visa rejections for Dubai due to the UAE’s implementation of stricter application requirements. Earlier, almost all visa applications were approved, but now around 5-6 out of every 100 applications are being turned down daily.

The updated rules require applicants to provide hotel booking confirmations with QR codes and return flight tickets when applying for a visa. Those staying with family members must also submit additional proof of accommodation. These measures, aimed at tightening the visa process, have left even well-prepared applications at risk of rejection.

The increased rejections are causing financial hardships for travelers, who are losing money on non-refundable visa fees, pre-booked tickets, and hotel reservations. A travel agency reported a case where a family’s visa application, despite meeting all requirements, was denied, resulting in losses exceeding ₹34,000.

Furthermore, tourists must now prove they have adequate funds to stay in Dubai. Applicants are required to show at least AED 5,000 (around ₹1.14 lakh) in their accounts for a two-month visa and AED 3,000 for a three-month visa. These changes have added complexity to the process, making it harder for Indian travelers to visit Dubai.