Travellers heading to Dubai on visit visas must now carry AED 3,000 in cash, a valid return ticket, and proof of accommodation, tourism agencies informed the Khaleej Times. These stringent entry guidelines, implemented to ensure compliance with immigration rules, have caused disruptions for some passengers.
Stricter Entry Guidelines
Authorities are closely monitoring entry requirements, ensuring that all visitors comply with the updated regulations. Some passengers who failed to meet these criteria reported being stopped at Indian airports and barred from boarding their flights, while others were stranded upon arrival in Dubai.
Key Requirements:
- A valid visa and passport with at least six months of validity.
- A confirmed return ticket.
- AED 3,000 in cash or equivalent in other currencies or credit cards.
- Proof of accommodation, which can be a hotel booking or a relative’s or friend’s home address.
Some travel agencies emphasized that these checks are not new but are now being enforced more rigorously. “People travelling to Dubai must have a valid visa with a passport having validity of at least six months. One must carry a confirmed return ticket. These are checks that were being done earlier,” Maliyakkal explained. “However, now, checks are being done to ensure that you are carrying enough money as proof of funds to sustain your stay in Dubai.”
Impact on Travellers
Some travel agencies also noted that while these measures have been in place for a long time, authorities have tightened their enforcement to safeguard travellers. “Airport checks are being conducted to safeguard travellers arriving in Dubai. There have been many cases of overstaying. This step by the authorities will positively impact the tourism sector of the emirate,” Varghese said.
Personal Experiences
Abin S, who arrived in Dubai on May 15, recounted his ordeal after failing to provide proof of accommodation. Despite having AED 3,000 in cash and a return ticket, he was asked to show documentation of his stay. “I mentioned that I would be staying with my cousin, and the officers requested his Emirates ID and proof of accommodation. However, my cousin is renting a room in Dubai and doesn’t have accommodation under his name,” Abin explained. This led to a four-day wait at the airport before he returned to his hometown.
In another incident, Abhishek was denied boarding at Cochin International Airport due to insufficient proof of accommodation and funds. “The airport staff said that the UAE will not allow anyone to enter the country without showing a valid hotel stay for the duration of their visit visa or AED 5,000 in cash,” recounted his brother-in-law, Bijesh.
Airlines’ Role and Penalties
The UAE has mandated airlines to verify specific details before allowing passengers to board. Airlines failing to comply with these regulations face fines of AED 5,000 per non-compliant passenger. The guidelines require travellers to have AED 3,000 for a one-month visa or AED 5,000 for a three-month visa, a hotel reservation, and a return ticket.
Conclusion
Dubai’s new entry requirements aim to deter individuals from misusing visit visas to seek employment and to ensure that all visitors have sufficient funds and proper accommodation arrangements. While these measures may cause inconvenience to some travellers, they are designed to maintain order and transparency within the tourism and immigration sectors.
Travelers planning to visit Dubai are urged to thoroughly check and comply with these requirements to avoid any disruptions to their travel plans.
