Abu Dhabi Offers Free UAE Visa to Indian Tourists Under New Holiday Programme
Abu Dhabi has launched a new holiday programme offering free UAE entry visas to eligible Indian tourists, as the emirate seeks to strengthen tourism links with India. The initiative, introduced by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, covers eligible Indian passport holders who book qualifying Abu Dhabi holidays through participating travel partners and online travel agencies.
The programme runs from August 1 through October 31, 2026, with DCT Abu Dhabi initially planning to support up to 20,000 visas during the pilot period. For qualifying bookings, the tourism authority will cover the full cost of the UAE entry visa.
Who Can Get the Free UAE Visa?
The offer is aimed at Indian passport holders departing from India. However, travellers must meet specific holiday-package requirements rather than simply applying for a free tourist visa independently.
Eligible bookings must include a minimum three-night consecutive stay at an Abu Dhabi hotel and a return flight from India. Travellers must also book through participating travel partners or online travel agencies that are part of the programme.
Therefore, the offer should not be interpreted as a general waiver of UAE visa fees for all Indian passport holders. The complimentary visa is tied to qualifying Abu Dhabi holiday bookings under the promotional programme.
Abu Dhabi Targets India’s Growing Travel Market
India remains a major international tourism market for Abu Dhabi, and the new programme is designed to reduce one of the upfront costs associated with international travel.
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 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 continues to strengthen air connectivity and travel-trade partnerships with India. Consequently, the visa incentive gives participating travel companies another tool to promote longer stays in the UAE capital.
For Indian travellers considering a holiday in Abu Dhabi between August and October, the programme could reduce the overall cost of a qualifying holiday. However, eligibility depends on meeting the package, flight, and accommodation conditions, so travellers should confirm the offer with a participating travel partner before booking.