Dubai recently introduced a five-year multiple entry visa to boost travel from India. This visa, issued within two to five working days after receiving and accepting the job request, allows the holder to stay in the country for 90 days. It can be extended once for a similar period, and the total length of stay will not exceed 180 days per year.
According to the latest data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai received 2.46 million Indian overnight visitors between January and December 2023. This represents a significant increase from 1.84 million tourists in 2022, exceeding the pre-pandemic figure of 1.97 million visitors in 2019. DET said that this “important” initiative allows tourists to use multiple inputs and outputs, providing job flexibility for both business and leisure travel alliances. Bader Ali Habib, Regional Director of Near Market at DET, added that Dubai values its relationship with India and will show an exceptional number of visitors from the Indian market in 2023, contributing to a record in the tourism sector. look at Dubai.
Habib added that India will continue to play an important role in achieving the goals of the D33 Agenda, thereby strengthening Dubai’s position as a business, investment and tourism destination. He further added that the five-year visa program is an important step to improve the relationship between Dubai and India. He is convinced that this significant event will pave the way for Indian tourism to be long and increasing but will also provide opportunities for economic growth.
He added: “This is also a testament to Dubai’s commitment to India and the endless opportunities that can be explored between the UAE and the subcontinent. With our unique air connectivity and our continued commitment to the Indian market, we are confident that our upcoming initiatives will create awareness about the diverse offerings of Dubai, its cultural foundations and many buildings. entertainment and attractions, continue to make it the first choice of travel. for Indian tourists.”
In 2023, Dubai set a new record by welcoming 17.15 million international overnight visitors throughout the year, a 19.4% year-on year increase from 14.36 million tourists in 2022. This figure also exceeded the record. previous record of 16.73 million visitors. in the year 2019.
The reports added that DET reported an exceptional 34% annual increase in the number of Indian tourists, contributing significantly to Dubai’s tourism performance in 2023. DET highlighted that this growth is in line with the objectives of Dubai economic plan, D33. , founded more than a year ago by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to strengthen Dubai’s position as one of the the world’s top three cities for business and leisure, and the best cities to visit, live and work.The DET added in its statement that the UAE and India are key economic partners, with a relationship rooted in centuries of cultural exchange, cooperation and trade relations.
It also said that India’s diverse market offers Dubai the opportunity to attract more tourists, catering to different tastes such as luxury shopping, cultural experiences, family entertainment and business gatherings.