Documents Required for Dubai Visa from India in 2025. Planning a trip to Dubai in 2025? Whether you’re visiting for tourism, work, business, or to see family, getting your Dubai visa documents right is the most important step. A missing bank statement, an old passport photo, or an incomplete form can delay or even reject your visa.
This guide walks you through all documents required for Dubai visa from India in 2025 – for tourist visas, visit visas, visa on arrival, transit visas, extensions, and special categories like children and family groups.
Key Documents Required for a Dubai Visa from India in 2025
Every Indian traveller applying for a UAE/Dubai visa in 2025 will need a core set of documents. Think of this as your basic Dubai visa checklist.
Essential Documents (for most Dubai visa types)
| Document Name | Requirement Details | 2025 Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Passport | At least 6 months’ validity from date of travel; machine-readable only | Check expiry before booking flights; UAE is strict |
| Passport-Size Photograph | Recent colour photo, white background, matt finish, front-facing | Must follow UAE visa photo specs |
| Completed Visa Application Form | Filled accurately as per UAE visa guidelines; online or offline | Digital forms widely accepted |
| Confirmed Return Flight Tickets | Return or onward ticket with your name, clear entry & exit dates | Visa duration and ticket dates must match |
| Hotel Booking Confirmation | Proof of accommodation for entire stay; hotel or host details | For 60-day visas, bookings should cover at least 31+ days |
These basics apply to almost all Dubai tourist and visit visas for Indians.
What Documents Are Required for a Dubai Visit Visa in 2025?
If you are visiting Dubai for tourism, to see family, or friends, you’ll need some mandatory documents plus extra papers if you have a local sponsor.
1. Mandatory Documents (All Applicants)
- Valid Passport
- Minimum 6 months’ validity from date of arrival
- Must be machine-readable and free from unusual symbols or special characters
- Passport-Size Photograph
- Recent colour photo
- Size: 35 x 45 mm
- White background, 70–80% face visible
- Completed Visa Application Form
- Filled as per UAE immigration guidelines
- Accepted in both digital and physical form, depending on service provider
- Confirmed Return Flight Tickets
- Round trip or onward journey ticket
- Must clearly show your full name and entry/exit dates
- Proof of Accommodation
- Hotel reservation covering entire stay, or
- If staying with family/friends: sponsor’s address and documents
2. Sponsor’s Documents (If Staying with Family or Friends)
If a UAE resident is sponsoring your stay, you may need:
- Sponsor’s valid Emirates ID / UAE Residency Card
- Ejari Tenancy Contract or Title Deed of residence
- Especially important if the host lives in an apartment with two or more bedrooms
- Additional supporting documents such as:
- Marriage certificate (if spouse is the sponsor)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if recently married
3. File Format & Submission Rules
- Documents should be uploaded in clear PDF/JPG/PNG format
- File size limits typically around 2 MB per document (check the portal)
- Digital uploads are preferred for faster processing
This checklist reflects current UAE immigration and GDRFA guidelines for 2025 and helps Indian applicants avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.
Documents Required for Dubai Visa on Arrival for Indians in 2025
Some Indian citizens are eligible for a Dubai visa on arrival in 2025, provided they hold certain valid foreign visas or residence permits.
Required Documents for Visa on Arrival
| Document Name | Requirement Details | 2025 Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Passport | Original passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival date | Must be machine-readable; strict enforcement |
| Valid US/UK/EU/Other Visa or Residence Permit | Visa or residence permit valid for 6+ months (US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, etc.) | Can be shown as original or printed copy |
| Confirmed Return Flight Tickets | Return/onward flights within the visa validity period | Should align with stay duration |
| Proof of Accommodation | Hotel booking, or tenancy docs if staying with family/friends | Dates must match stay period |
| Proof of Funds | Recommended minimum AED 3,000 (~USD 800) via bank statement, card, or cash | Demonstrates financial capacity |
Pre-Applied Dubai Visa vs Visa on Arrival (Indians – 2025)
| Criteria | Pre-Applied Dubai Visa | Dubai Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Application Timing | Applied before travel | Obtained at the airport on arrival |
| Eligibility | Most Indian passport holders | Only Indians with valid foreign visa/PR |
| Processing Time | Usually 3–5 working days | Around 10–20 minutes at immigration |
| Typical Validity | 30 or 60 days (or longer) | 14 days, usually extendable once |
| Fees | Varies by visa type, paid in advance | Around AED 100, paid at the counter |
Even if you qualify for visa on arrival, prepare all Dubai visa documents required for Indian travellers beforehand, especially during peak seasons when queues are long.
Dubai Visa Photo Requirements for Indians in 2025
UAE immigration is strict about photo specifications. A non-compliant photo is one of the most common reasons for delays.
Standard Dubai Visa Photo Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Photo Dimensions | 35mm x 45mm (1.4 x 1.8 inches) |
| Digital Size | Minimum 300 x 369 pixels |
| File Format | JPG, JPEG, or PNG |
| File Size | Between 50 KB and 1 MB |
| Photo Age | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Background | Plain white, no shadows, no patterns |
| Face Coverage | 70–80% of the frame, clearly visible |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open |
| Head Position | Head centred, directly facing the camera |
| Clothing | Preferably dark clothes; no uniforms |
| Head Covering | Allowed only for religious reasons; face fully visible |
| Glasses | Generally not allowed, except for medical reasons |
| Children/Infants | No toys, no hands visible; face must be fully visible |
Can You Use a Selfie for a Dubai Visa?
Yes, you may use a selfie only if it strictly meets all official photo rules:
- Plain, light/white background
- Face centred and covering about 80% of the frame
- No shadows on face or background
- No filters, heavy edits, or tilt
- Saved as JPG/JPEG/PNG within the correct file size
- Taken within the last 6 months
However: professional studio photos are still recommended because they have a much higher acceptance rate and reduce the chances of rejection due to minor technical issues.
How Many Documents Do I Need for a Dubai Tourist Visa in 2025?
For a standard Dubai tourist visa from India, most travellers submit 5 to 7 documents.
Mandatory Documents (Always Required)
- Valid passport (with photocopies of front, biodata and last pages)
- One recent passport-size photograph
- Completed visa application form
- Confirmed return/onward tickets
- Hotel booking confirmation or stay details
When Are Additional Documents Needed?
Extra documents may be requested:
- If you have no previous travel history to Schengen/US/UK etc.
- If you are a minor, student, or newly married
- If your nationality differs from the country of residence
For faster approvals, ensure that all Dubai visa documentation is complete, consistent, and clearly scanned.
Documents Required for Different Dubai Visa Types (Indians – 2025)
Different visa types require slightly different document sets.
1. Tourist Visa (14/30/60/90 Days)
Common documents:
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Passport-size photo
- Completed visa form
- Return/onward flight tickets
- Hotel booking/accommodation proof
- Visa fee payment proof
- Sometimes bank statements or proof of funds
14-Day Dubai Tourist Visa – Documents
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Visa photo meeting UAE specs
- Filled visa application form
- Confirmed return ticket within 14 days
- Hotel booking for entire stay
- Proof of visa fee payment
Best for short visits; usually not extendable.
30-Day Single Entry Visa – Documents
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- UAE-compliant photo
- Completed and signed application form
- Return or onward ticket within 30 days
- Hotel/accommodation for full 30-day stay
- Visa fee payment proof
The visa must be used within 60 days of issue, and in many cases can be extended twice by 30 days (check current rules at the time of application).
60-Day Visa – Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Passport photo as per UAE guidelines
- Fully completed application form
- Confirmed entry and exit flight tickets
- Hotel booking for the entire 60 days
- Recent bank statements showing at least AED 3,000 or equivalent
- Proof of visa fee payment
2. Dubai Transit Visa (48/96 Hours)
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Passport-size photo
- Confirmed onward flight tickets within 48 or 96 hours
- Airline confirmation (often Emirates or FlyDubai specific)
- Hotel booking not always required if you remain within airport or short transit
If you plan to leave the airport and your layover is long, you may need a regular tourist visa instead of a transit visa.
3. Visit Visa (Family/Friends)
- Valid passport and photo
- Completed visa application form
- Invitation letter from UAE-based sponsor
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID and valid residence visa
- Sponsor’s Ejari/tenancy contract or title deed
- Confirmed return tickets
4. Business Visa
- Valid passport and recent photo
- Completed business visa application
- Invitation letter from UAE company
- UAE company trade license and registration documents
- Sponsor’s residence visa & Emirates ID
- Flight and accommodation details
5. Family Visa
- Applicant’s passport & photos
- Application form
- Sponsor’s valid residency visa & Emirates ID
- Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificates)
- Ejari or tenancy proof
- Sponsor’s financial proof (salary slips, bank statements)
Supporting Documents That May Be Required (Indians – 2025)
Besides the core documents, immigration or the visa centre may ask for:
- Bank Statements (3–6 months)
- Minimum balance often suggested: AED 3,000 or equivalent
- Employment Letter
- On company letterhead, showing your role, salary, and approved leave dates
- Income Tax Returns (Last 2 years)
- Useful when employment proof is limited
- Travel Insurance
- Covering medical emergencies and repatriation for your full stay
- Invitation Letter & Sponsor’s Documents
- For family/friend visits: sponsor’s Emirates ID, tenancy contract/title deed
- Marriage certificate or affidavit for newlyweds
While not always compulsory, carrying solid financial and travel proof reduces the risk of delays or boarding denial.
How to Prepare Your Documents for Dubai Visa Application (2025)
To avoid last-minute issues:
- Scan Passport Pages Clearly
- Front cover, biodata page, and last page in colour
- Recommended resolution: 300 DPI
- Prepare a Compliant Photo
- Size: 35 x 45 mm, white background
- Neutral expression, no shadows
- Save as JPG/JPEG/PNG, 50 KB – 1 MB
- Save Files in Accepted Formats
- PDF, JPG, JPEG, or PNG as required
- Keep each file within the portal’s maximum size limit
- Organise Files in Order
- Passport → Photo → Tickets → Hotel → Supporting docs
- Use clear filenames like
Passport_Name,Photo_Name,BankStatement_Month
- Keep Both Digital and Physical Copies
- Digital copies for upload
- Printed copies for airline check-in and immigration checks
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting Dubai Visa Documents
Avoid these frequent errors to improve your chances of smooth approval:
- Applying with a passport valid for less than 6 months
- Uploading blurry or low-quality scans
- Spelling differences in names across passport, tickets, and hotel bookings
- Skipping the last page of the passport or external cover (often checked now)
- Using wrong file formats or exceeding size limits
Pro Tip: Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages – one for visa and another for entry/exit stamps. This is often overlooked but very important.
Do You Need Original Documents or Copies for a Dubai Visa in 2025?
Digital Copies (For Application)
- For most online applications, scanned copies or clear photos of documents are enough
- Passport, photo, bank statements, ITR, and supporting documents are uploaded digitally
Originals (At Travel/Immigration)
- Original passport is always required at the airport
- Some visit or long-term visas may require original documents at UAE immigration offices
Visa Centres & Embassy Submissions
- If applying through a visa centre, you might present originals for verification
- For long-term, work, or business visas, original documents may be couriered or submitted for stamping
Always read the instructions from your visa service provider, airline, or UAE sponsor carefully.
Passport Requirements for Dubai Visa from India in 2025
Make sure your Indian passport meets these conditions:
- Minimum Validity: At least 6 months from the date of entry into Dubai
- Machine-Readable: Handwritten or damaged passports are not accepted
- Blank Pages: Minimum two blank pages available
- Good Condition: No water damage, heavy wear, or illegible text
- Clear Biodata: All details and photo must be clearly visible
Check your passport before you start the application or book tickets. UAE immigration is very strict about passport rules.
How to Apply for Dubai Visa from India: Document Submission Process (2025)
- Choose the Right Visa Type & Service Provider
- Tourist, visit, business, or transit
- Apply via airline, authorised visa agent, travel portal, or UAE sponsor
- Fill the Visa Application Form
- Enter accurate personal, passport, and travel information
- Double-check spellings and dates
- Upload Required Documents
- Passport, photo, tickets, hotel booking, and supporting documents
- Make sure all files are clear and within size limits
- Pay Visa Fees Online
- Pay using accepted methods (card, net banking, etc.)
- Keep the payment receipt
- Submit & Track Application
- Submit online or through a visa centre
- Track status using the reference number
- Typical processing time: 3–5 working days, depending on visa type
Apply well before your travel date to allow time for corrections or additional document requests.
Dubai Visa Document Requirements for Special Categories
Some travellers need extra documents depending on their situation.
Minors / Children
- Child’s valid passport (6+ months)
- Passport-size photo (relaxed expression allowed for infants)
- Birth certificate (English/Arabic or certified translation)
- Notarised consent letter from both parents, especially if travelling with one parent or guardian
- Copies of both parents’ passports
Always carry the original birth certificate when travelling with children.
Family Group Visas
- Passports and photos of all family members
- Marriage and birth certificates for relationship proof
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID and valid residence visa
- Tenancy contract (Ejari) or title deed
- Financial proof from sponsor
Senior Citizens
- Valid passport and photo
- Accommodation proof
- Health insurance or medical reports (if required)
- Financial proof
Medical Tourism
- Hospital/clinic referral or admission letter
- Travel insurance
- Passport and visa application
- Confirmed accommodation
Business Visa
- UAE company invitation letter
- Company trade licence
- Sponsor’s residency visa & Emirates ID
- Applicant’s passport, photo, tickets, and hotel booking
Additional Documents for Children Applying for Dubai Visa
For child visa applications, prepare:
- Child’s passport (6+ months validity)
- Recent visa photo
- Birth certificate (with translation if needed)
- Notarised consent letter from both parents
- Copies of parents’ passports
This helps avoid queries at immigration, especially if surnames differ or only one parent is travelling.
Documents Required for Dubai Visa Extension in 2025
To extend a Dubai tourist or visit visa:
- Original passport with 6+ months validity and current visa copy
- Passport-size photograph
- Completed visa extension application (online or at authorised centres)
- Proof of funds (bank statement, financial documents)
- Updated hotel booking covering the extended stay
- Visa extension fee (e.g. AED 250 per 30 days, or as per current rule)
Apply for an extension 7–10 days before visa expiry to avoid overstaying fines.
Documents Required for Dubai Visa for Other Nationalities Living in India (2025)
Non-Indian nationals residing in India usually need:
- Valid passport of their home country (6+ months validity)
- Valid Indian residence permit/visa (at least 6 months remaining)
- Same base set of documents as Indian citizens:
- Photo, tickets, hotel booking, application form
- Additional papers such as:
- Sponsor’s ID, financial proofs
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer for work/business travel
Expat residents should start their Dubai visa process early to allow time for extra verification steps.
Conclusion
Getting the documents required for Dubai visa from India in 2025 right is the foundation of a smooth travel experience. Start by checking your passport validity, preparing UAE-compliant photos, and organising your tickets, hotel bookings, and financial proofs. Then add any extra documents based on your visa type – tourist, visit, business, transit, or family.
A complete, clearly scanned, and well-organised document set not only speeds up your Dubai visa approval but also reduces the risk of last-minute stress at the airport. With the right preparation, your Dubai trip in 2025 can focus on sightseeing and memories – not paperwork.
