The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has unveiled a visionary plan to overhaul outsourced consular services, set to roll out in 2024. Indian expats residing in the UAE will soon experience a remarkable transformation in accessing passport and attestation services.
Indian Expats Will Soon Be Able To Access Unified Centers For Passport & Attestation
In a strategic move reported by Gulf News, the embassy has initiated a call for bids from prospective service providers. The providers should be capable of delivering expeditious, transparent, and efficient solutions at key locations across the UAE. The forthcoming provider will consolidate a spectrum of consular services into a unified hub named the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC). It will encompass visa procurement and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) services.
The branches will grace all seven emirates, including major metropolises such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. The ICAC’s comprehensive network aims to be inclusive and accessible. Unique to this revamp, the ICAC is introducing doorstep passport services, pioneering a new era of convenience for applicants in the UAE.
Also Read: Visa Applications Open For All 7 Days For Indian Expats In UAE
A Revolution For Foreign Nationals
Anticipated to be a game-changer for an estimated 3.5 million Indian residents and foreign nationals seeking Indian visa services, this initiative arrives as an answer to evolving demand. Upon contract assignment, the new service provider will be tasked with commencing operations within two months, heralding the anticipated inauguration on January 1, 2024. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has released a comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) for the outsourcing of consular services via its website
Here’s the list of locations where these services will be provided
Ajman
Umm Al Quwain
Ras Al Khaimah
Fujairah
Dubai
1. Deira
2. Al Qusais
3.Karama/Oud Metha
4.Marina,
5.Al Quoz/Al Barsha
Abu Dhabi
1. Ghayathi
2. Musaffah
3. Al Ain
4. Al Khalidiya
5. Al Reem
Sharjah
1. Rolla
2. Abu Shagara
3. Khorfakkan
An impressive feature is that applicants will experience a wait time of no more than four days for online appointments. The applications are efficiently processed within just 20 minutes. Reports of any delay will lead to penalties for the service providers.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images