Indian travelers planning to visit Dubai are facing an unprecedented surge in tourist visa rejections after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) tightened its requirements for visa applications.
While earlier almost 99% of applications were approved, the rejection rate has now spiked, even for meticulously prepared applications, according to a report by The Times of India (TOI).
Stricter Visa Requirements
Dubai's emigration department recently introduced new regulations mandating travelers to submit hotel booking documents with QR codes and return flight tickets as part of their tourist visa application.
For those planning to stay with relatives, additional proof of accommodation is required.
Rise in Visa Rejections
Since these new rules came into effect, the rejection rate for Dubai visas has surged to 5-6 rejections per 100 applications daily, up from the earlier rate of 1-2%. Travel agents report that even applications with all necessary documents are being denied.
Nikhil Kumar, director of Passio Travels Pvt Ltd, told TOI, "We are seeing at least 5-6 visa rejections daily out of 100 applications, even when confirmed flight tickets and hotel stay details are attached."
The stricter policies are causing significant distress among travelers, many of whom are losing money on visa fees, pre-booked flights, and hotel reservations.
Vijay Thakkar, director of Hasmukh Travels, shared a recent case where two passengers staying with relatives in Dubai had their applications denied despite submitting all required documents.
"They incurred losses of nearly Rs 14,000 in visa fees and over Rs 20,000 in ticket cancellation charges," he said.
Financial Burden and New Requirements
Under the new policy, travelers must also demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their stay. Applicants are required to show a minimum balance of AED 5,000 (approximately Rs 1.14 lakh) in their accounts for a two-month visa, and AED 3,000 for a three-month visa.
Impact on Travelers
Travel agents describe the situation as unprecedented.
Rishikesh Pujari, director of Vihar Travels, remarked, "Even meticulously prepared applications are being rejected. Earlier, almost all Dubai visa applications were approved, but now we are seeing rejections for well-prepared travelers too."
This increase in rejections is adding uncertainty and financial strain on Indian tourists planning to visit Dubai. Many travelers are now reconsidering their plans as the new policies continue to disrupt travel arrangements.
