New programme runs until October 31 and covers visa costs for up to 20,000 Indian travellers.
Abu Dhabi: Indian tourists can now have their UAE entry visa fees waived when they book a holiday in Abu Dhabi under a new programme launched by the emirate’s tourism authority.
The initiative, launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), is open to eligible Indian passport holders who book an Abu Dhabi holiday through participating travel partners and online travel agencies.
Running from August 1 to October 31, 2026, the programme applies to bookings that include at least a three-night stay at an Abu Dhabi hotel and a return flight from India. During the pilot phase, the initiative will cover visa costs for up to 20,000 travellers.
DCT Abu Dhabi will cover the full UAE entry visa cost for eligible bookings, reducing the upfront expense for Indian travellers visiting the emirate.
India remains a key market
India continues to be one of Abu Dhabi’s most important international tourism markets, according to DCT Abu Dhabi.
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.”
He said waiving the visa fee would make it easier for Indian travellers to choose Abu Dhabi while giving travel partners an additional incentive to recommend the destination.
Yousuf 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 steps up efforts to strengthen air connectivity, expand partnerships with the travel trade and create more opportunities for Indian visitors.
Who is eligible for the free UAE visa?
The offer is open to Indian passport holders travelling from India who book an Abu Dhabi holiday through a participating travel partner.
To qualify, the booking must include:
- A minimum stay of three consecutive nights at an Abu Dhabi hotel
- A return flight from India
- A booking made through a participating travel partner or online travel agency
Travellers cannot apply for the offer independently. The programme is available exclusively through participating travel partners and online travel agencies.
How does the free visa programme work?
Participating travel partners can choose between two options.
Under the first option, they can work with a DCT-appointed destination management company (DMC), with DCT Abu Dhabi covering the visa costs directly.
Alternatively, travel partners can continue working with their existing DMC partners, with DCT Abu Dhabi reimbursing Dh285 for each eligible visa issued.
