What do Indians travelling to UAE need to know?
Travelers are advised to stay informed and equipped with all necessary documentation to prevent deportation or refusal to travel
Dubai: In response to recent travel updates for visitors from India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), several Indian airlines have issued new guidelines aimed at ensuring smooth travel experiences.
Mandatory documents for travel
A significant advisory has been issued by Indian airlines to travel agents in both India and the UAE, emphasizing the importance of carrying necessary documents when travelling. The advisory urges passengers to carry the following documents:
Valid passport: Travellers must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the UAE.
Return ticket: A confirmed return ticket is mandatory.
Accommodation details: Proof of confirmed hotel reservation is required.
Financial proof: Travellers must carry or have in their account Dh3,000 (approximately Rs68,000) for a one-month visa and Dh5,000 for a longer stay.
Additional documents: Information about relatives or friends who are residents of the UAE may also be needed.
Airline advisories and repercussions
Travel agents in both India and Dubai have received advisories from multiple airlines, including SpiceJet and Air India. These advisories stress the necessity of carrying all required documents to avoid complications.
SpiceJet's advisory, for instance, warns that failure to carry the necessary documents may lead to deportation. The airline has explicitly stated that passengers without the required documents will be denied boarding at the departing airport, and all related charges will be debited to the ticketing agency.
Travel agencies are taking extra precautions to confirm that their clients have all the necessary documents before booking their tickets. This proactive approach is vital to avoid the financial and logistical repercussions of denied entry.
Past incidents where travelers were denied boarding or sent back from UAE airports have heightened awareness and preparedness among travellers.
Airline and check-in procedures
If a traveller is denied entry to the UAE, the airline bears the responsibility of returning the traveler to their home country. Consequently, airline executives at check-in counters are meticulously verifying travellers' documents. Those who fail to produce the required documents are either sent back or asked to obtain the necessary documentation before boarding.
The new travel guidelines for Indian travelers while stringent, are aimed at ensuring a hassle-free travel experience and avoiding the complications of denied entry. Travelers are advised to stay informed and equipped with all necessary documentation to enjoy their journey to the UAE.