ABU DHABI: Indian tourists planning a holiday in Abu Dhabi can receive a UAE entry visa at no cost under a new programme launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) to boost travel from one of the emirate’s key international markets.
The initiative, which runs from August 1 to October 31, 2026, is available to eligible Indian passport holders who book their Abu Dhabi trip through participating travel partners and online travel agencies.
To qualify, bookings must include a stay of at least three nights at a hotel in Abu Dhabi and a return flight from India.
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DCT Abu Dhabi will cover the full cost of the UAE entry visa for travellers who meet the programme requirements, reducing the upfront cost of visiting the emirate.
The pilot programme will initially cover up to 20,000 visas.
India remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most important international tourism markets, with the initiative aimed at making the destination more accessible while encouraging Indian visitors to stay longer and explore the emirate.
Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said the authority remained committed to working with travel partners to make Abu Dhabi easier to access for Indian travellers.
He said covering the visa cost would simplify the decision to travel to Abu Dhabi while providing travel partners with an additional incentive to promote the emirate.
DCT Abu Dhabi said it expects the programme to encourage more Indian visitors to explore Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions, entertainment, hospitality offerings and natural destinations.
