Is This an Official Promotion?
First, clarify if the “free visa” is part of an official government or airline promotion. For instance, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has launched a pilot programme for Indian passport holders travelling from India between August 1
and October 31, 2026. This scheme covers the visa cost for travellers who book a package including at least three consecutive nights in an Abu Dhabi hotel. Understanding whether the offer is a recognised initiative or just an agent's marketing tactic is your first line of defence. An agent's deal might simply bundle the visa cost into a higher package price, making it seem free.
What is the Exact Type of Visa?
The term “tourist visa” is broad. You need to ask whether it’s a 14-day, 30-day, or 60-day visa. Is it single-entry or multiple-entry? A free 14-day visa is less valuable if you plan to stay for a month. Mismatched visa duration can lead to overstay fines, which are typically AED 50 per day plus administrative charges. Ensure the visa type and validity align perfectly with your travel dates and itinerary to avoid costly complications upon your departure.
Are There Hidden Processing or Service Fees?
This is the most critical question. An agent might advertise a “free visa,” where the government's visa fee (e.g., AED 200-300) is waived or covered, but then add their own significant “service charge,” “processing fee,” or “typing fee.” Always ask for a complete cost breakdown. Reputable agents will be transparent about their service charges versus the actual government fees. If the agent is hesitant to provide a detailed invoice, consider it a major red flag.
Is a 'Refundable' Security Deposit Required?
Some travel agents require a refundable security deposit, which can range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000, especially for first-time travellers or certain nationalities. This is supposedly to cover potential overstay fines. While sometimes a legitimate practice, you must ask about the exact refund process. How long does it take to get the deposit back after you return? Get the terms in writing. Unscrupulous agents may create delays or find excuses to withhold the deposit, turning a “free” offer into a significant expense.
What is the Total Package Cost and Inclusions?
Free visa offers are almost always tied to a package deal that includes flights and hotels. Ask for the total, all-inclusive price of the package and compare it with booking the components separately. You may find that the package is inflated to cover the visa cost. Also, confirm every detail: flight times, airline, hotel name and star rating, and whether mandatory travel insurance is included. Often, a seemingly good deal on a visa is balanced by less desirable flight times or a poorly located hotel.
Can You Verify Your Company’s Credentials?
Before handing over any money or documents, verify the travel agency's legitimacy. Ask for their trade license number and check if they are an authorised visa agent. Scams involving unlicensed agents promising express visas are common. These entities often operate only through social media or WhatsApp, demand cash payments, and may disappear after receiving your money, leaving you with no visa and compromised personal data. A legitimate agent will have a physical office and transparent, official payment channels.
What is the Policy on Visa Rejection?
While agents can facilitate applications, they cannot guarantee visa approval, as the final decision rests with UAE immigration authorities. Ask about the agent's policy if your visa is rejected. Will any part of the service fee be refunded? Most government visa fees are non-refundable once the application is processed. A reliable agent will be upfront about this. Be wary of any agent who promises a 100% approval guarantee, as this is often a sign of a scam.
