Indian passport holders travelling from India can receive a complimentary UAE entry visa when booking an Abu Dhabi holiday under a new tourism programme. The offer runs until October 31, 2026, and requires eligible travellers to book at least three consecutive nights in an Abu Dhabi hotel.
The programme, launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, aims to make the emirate more accessible to one of its most important international tourism markets. Moreover, the pilot programme will cover visa costs for up to 20,000 travellers.
Who Qualifies for the Free UAE Visa?
The free UAE visa for Indian tourists is available to eligible Indian passport holders departing from India. However, travellers must book through a participating travel partner or online travel agency.
Qualifying bookings must include a minimum three-night stay at an Abu Dhabi hotel and a return flight from India.
The programme began on August 1 and will continue through October 31, 2026. DCT Abu Dhabi will cover the full UAE entry visa cost for eligible bookings, reducing the upfront expense for participating travellers.
However, tourists cannot apply independently for the promotion. Instead, the offer operates through participating travel partners and OTAs.
How the Abu Dhabi Visa Offer Works
Travel partners can access the programme through two routes. First, they can work with a DCT-appointed destination management company, with DCT Abu Dhabi covering the visa costs directly.
Alternatively, partners can continue using their existing DMC arrangements. In that case, DCT Abu Dhabi will reimburse Dh285 for each eligible visa issued.
Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “India continues to be one of our most important international markets, and we remain committed to working closely with our travel partners to make Abu Dhabi even more accessible for Indian travellers.”
Yousuf said covering visa costs would simplify the booking process while giving travel partners another incentive to recommend Abu Dhabi.
He added: “We look forward to welcoming more visitors as they spend longer exploring Abu Dhabi’s culture, entertainment, hospitality and natural attractions.”
The initiative comes as Abu Dhabi continues efforts to strengthen connectivity with India and expand tourism partnerships. Consequently, the three-night requirement also encourages visitors to spend longer in the emirate.
For Indian travellers considering a UAE holiday this year, the programme offers a direct financial incentive while keeping the booking process tied to participating travel companies.