In light of a 34 per cent YoY growth in the number of Indian tourists the previous year, Dubai has announced a new visa plan to bolster travel relations with their now top source market- India.
While Dubai is known to be a hotspot for tourism worldwide, it is an undeniable favourite for Indian tourists looking for an international getaway. Facts would attest, as just in the previous year Dubai welcomed 2.46 million overnight visitors from India according to the latest data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The significant hike from 1.84 million tourists in 2022 and the pre-pandemic figure of 1.97 million visitors shows a humongous 25% growth. This substantial number of international visitors from the Indian market has only added to Dubai’s record-breaking tourism performance in 2023 where the city welcomed 17.15 million international overnight visitors.
The growth not only aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, launched just over a year ago by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai that promotes Dubai as one of the top cities globally for business and leisure but also promote a deeper economic and diplomatic relationship with India. Hence, to further this agenda with India as the top source market for Dubai, they introduce a Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa for Indian tourists. With this step, holders of the visa, issued within two to five working days of the service request, allow them to stay 90 days in the country, extendable to a total of 180 days in a year. Through this move, tourists can seamlessly engage in the city’s vast offerings with multiple entries and exits through the year encouraging flexibility for business engagements as well as leisure trips. The step increases connectivity between the two nations, fostering further collaborations and encouraging tourism. Additionally, DET is also actively participating in SATTE 2024, India’s leading trade exhibition to further promote trade relations.
“Dubai values its long-standing relationship with India, and our inbound visitation from the market in 2023 was outstanding, contributing to a record-breaking performance by our tourism sector. As a key market for Dubai, India will continue to play an integral role in enabling us to achieve the goals of the D33 Agenda, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a hub for business, investment and tourism. The five-year multiple entry visa initiative signifies a strategic step towards deepening our already existing ties with India. This historic milestone will not only open doors to a longer and more enriching experience for Indian tourists but also provide a platform for increased economic collaboration. It is also a testament to Dubai’s commitment to India and the infinite possibilities that can be explored between the UAE and the sub-continent. With exceptional flight connectivity and our ongoing commitment to the Indian market, we are confident that our upcoming initiatives will further amplify awareness about Dubai’s diverse offerings, multicultural setting, and abundance of hotels and attractions, continuing to make it the top travel choice for Indian tourists,” stated Bader Ali Habib, Regional Head of Proximity Markets, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
The long-standing relationship between the UAE and India rooted in centuries-old cultural exchanges and diplomatic cooperation once again progressed with this significant step. The golden city of Dubai is now more accessible than ever for Indian tourists to indulge in a world of luxury and opulence and the various experiences exclusive to Dubai.
Source: Lifestyle Asia.
