Muscat: An increased number of Indian expatriates residing in Oman are now eligible for visa-on-arrival privileges at the UAE's borders and airports, in accordance with newly implemented regulations.
Under the most recent directives, Indian nationals holding tourist visas for the United Kingdom and European Union nations are now capable of securing a visa-on-arrival status in the United Arab Emirates. This facility was previously accessible only to individuals possessing either a residence or tourist visa for the United States, or a residency permit for the United Kingdom and European Union.
For the purpose of securing a visa-on-arrival, passports must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry, as stipulated by the Indian mission in the United Arab Emirates.
This development comes in the wake of another recent amendment permitting Omani residents and their companions to apply for a 30-day electronic visa to enter the United Arab Emirates, with the option to extend this visa for an additional 30 days. Previously, Omani residents were not permitted to extend their visas while within the UAE; they were required to depart the country prior to reapplying for a new entry visa.
The application process for the electronic visa can be undertaken online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, or through travel agents located in Oman, who typically charge approximately OMR 35 for a 30-day visa-on-arrival status in the United Arab Emirates.
