What Exactly Is the New Visa Offer?
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has launched a promotional program specifically for the Indian market. Under this scheme, the government is covering the entire cost of the UAE entry visa for eligible travellers. This
is not a visa-free-for-all policy, but rather a targeted tourism drive where the visa is still issued, but the fee is paid by DCT Abu Dhabi. The program is designed to make booking a holiday in the emirate more attractive and accessible. The initiative is a pilot program running from August 1 to October 31, 2026, and is set to cover up to 20,000 visas. It's important for travellers to act swiftly and confirm availability with their travel providers, as the offer has a fixed limit.
Checking Your Eligibility
This offer is not open to all Indian passport holders. To qualify for the visa cost waiver, travellers must meet a specific set of criteria. You must be an Indian passport holder departing from India. The trip must be booked as a package through a participating travel agency or an approved online travel platform. A crucial condition is that the booking must include a stay of at least three consecutive nights in an Abu Dhabi hotel, along with a return flight from India. Independent visa applications and bookings made directly with airlines or hotels without involving a partnered travel agent will not qualify for this benefit. The aim is to encourage more comprehensive holiday packages centered around the capital.
How to Claim the Benefit
The process to avail of this offer is streamlined through travel partners. Instead of applying for a visa independently and seeking reimbursement, travellers must book a qualifying holiday package. Your chosen travel agency or online platform will handle the visa application process. They will either process the visa through a DCT-appointed Destination Management Company (DMC), where the fee is covered directly, or get a reimbursement of AED 285 for each qualifying visa issued. For the traveller, the process is simple: book a valid package with a participating partner, submit your documents to them, and they will manage the rest.
Other Waivers for Family Travel
Beyond this specific promotion, families travelling to the UAE during the summer can benefit from another long-standing rule. Between July 15 and September 15 each year, the UAE government waives tourist visa fees for children under the age of 18 who are accompanied by their parents. This separate initiative, introduced in 2018, is designed to boost the UAE's appeal as a family-friendly destination during the summer holidays. It's important to note that every traveller, including infants, must have their own individual passport and visa to enter the UAE.
Why Abu Dhabi Should Be on Your List
With the visa cost potentially covered, it’s the perfect time to explore Abu Dhabi's diverse attractions. The city is a treasure trove for families and solo travellers alike. For thrill-seekers, Yas Island offers world-class theme parks. Culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or explore global art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. For a more traditional experience, you can wander through bustling souks or take a desert safari to see the stunning sand dunes. The city also boasts beautiful public beaches and luxurious resorts, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for a memorable holiday.
