Dreaming of glittering skyscrapers and luxury shopping in Dubai? Hold onto your travel plans, Indian tourists as the new visa rules have hit, and they aren’t pretty. What used to be a straightforward visa process for Dubai has turned into a paperwork marathon, leaving travellers and agents pulling their hair out due to visa rejections in Dubai. So here’s what has changed.
Dubai Visa Process Change Results In Rejections Of Indian Tourists
Visa rejection rates have skyrocketed, jumping from a manageable 1-2% to an alarming 5-6%. Many Indians are finding their plans grounded, losing not just visa fees but also cash poured into non-refundable flights and hotels. If this sounds like a travel nightmare, wait until you hear what’s causing the chaos.
The New Rules Of The Game
Dubai now demands tourists submit proof of a return ticket before even boarding their flight. Forget the good ol’ days when this was only checked at the airport. Without this, applications hit the reject pile faster than you can say “desert safari.”
Tourists must now show their accommodation details, be it a swanky hotel or a cosy stay with relatives. And don’t forget to prove you can fund your Dubai adventure. Bank statements or sponsorship letters are now non-negotiable.
Agent Troubles
Think you can wing it? Think again. Only authorised travel agents or specific entities like trading companies can process applications. Even family-sponsored visas need to tick all these same boxes. Travel agents are in a bind, grappling with a surge of dissatisfied clients and lost revenue. The stricter guidelines mean agents must triple-check every detail before submission, or risk rejection. For travellers, this means more time, more hassle and inevitably, more stress.
Also Read: Emiratis Can Now Enjoy Indian Visa On Arrival Across Six Cities
Planning Is Key
Dubai’s new visa rules are a stark reminder to Indian travellers, that meticulous planning is now your golden ticket. Double-check your documents, pre-book accommodations, and ensure funds are in order. While the process feels like climbing a dune, careful preparation can still make your Dubai dreams come true. Travel agents might grumble, but with the right support, you can still swap the chaos for camel rides in no time.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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