Visit visa holders urged to carry Dh3,000 in cash or credit, return tickets, proof of stay

Dubai visit visa

Travellers on Dubai visit visas are being urged to carry Dh3,000 in cash or on a credit card, along with a valid return ticket and proof of accommodation. This advisory comes from tourism agencies as authorities tighten entry guidelines.

Firoz Maliyakkal, founder and CEO of Tahira Tours and Travels, explained that these checks are not new but have become more stringent. "People travelling to Dubai must have a valid visa with a passport having a validity of at least six months and a confirmed return ticket. Now, checks are also ensuring that travellers have enough money to sustain their stay in Dubai, equivalent to Dh3,000, and valid proof of accommodation, whether it's a relative's or friend’s home or a hotel booking," said Maliyakkal.

Travel agents emphasize that these measures are in place to protect travellers and ensure compliance with UAE regulations. "Airport checks are being conducted to safeguard travellers arriving in Dubai. There have been many cases of overstaying, and this step will positively impact the tourism sector of the emirate," noted Libin Varghese from Rooh Travel and Tourism. He added that stringent checks provide transparency and prevent discrepancies for people traveling to the UAE.

However, some travellers have faced significant issues due to these strict measures. Abin S, who arrived in Dubai on May 15 from Cochin International Airport, was asked to provide Dh3,000 and proof of accommodation upon arrival. Despite having the required amount and a return ticket, he could not provide proof of accommodation under his cousin's name, as his cousin was renting a room in Dubai. As a result, Abin had to stay in the airport's waiting hall for four days before returning to his hometown on May 19.

Similarly, Indian tourist Abhishek was denied boarding at Cochin International Airport on May 20 because he could not present a valid hotel stay or Dh5,000 in cash. Despite having Rs50,000, the airport staff insisted the amount had to be in dirhams. Abhishek's brother-in-law, Bijesh, tried to provide the necessary documents from Dubai, but the airport authorities did not relent. Abhishek lost the money spent on his Spice Jet flight and is now arranging funds and booking new tickets to fly to Dubai.

These incidents highlight the importance of being well-prepared with all required documents and funds before traveling. Authorities are enforcing these rules strictly to ensure compliance and avoid any issues for travelers entering the UAE.