Abu Dhabi: Indian tourists can now receive a free UAE entry visa when they book an eligible holiday package in Abu Dhabi under a new initiative launched by the emirate’s tourism authority.

The programme, introduced by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), is aimed at eligible Indian passport holders booking Abu Dhabi holidays through participating travel partners and online travel agencies (OTAs).

The offer is valid from August 1 to October 31, 2026, and applies to bookings that include a minimum three-night consecutive stay at an Abu Dhabi hotel along with a return flight from India.

During the pilot phase, the programme will support up to 20,000 visas. DCT Abu Dhabi will cover the full cost of the UAE entry visa for eligible bookings, helping reduce the upfront cost for Indian travellers.

India Remains a Key Tourism Market

India continues to be one of Abu Dhabi’s most important international tourism markets, according to DCT Abu Dhabi.

Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said the emirate remains committed to working closely with travel partners to make Abu Dhabi more accessible to Indian visitors.

Covering the visa cost is expected to make it easier for Indian travellers to choose Abu Dhabi while providing travel partners with an additional incentive to recommend the destination.

The initiative is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader efforts to strengthen air connectivity, expand partnerships with the travel industry and create new opportunities for Indian tourists.

Who Is Eligible for the Free Visa?

The offer is available to Indian passport holders travelling from India who book an Abu Dhabi holiday through a participating travel partner or OTA.

To qualify, the booking must include:

• A minimum three consecutive nights at an Abu Dhabi hotel
• A return flight from India
• Booking through a participating travel partner or online travel agency

Travellers cannot apply independently for the free visa. The programme is specifically designed for bookings made through participating travel partners and OTAs.

How Does the Programme Work?

Participating travel partners can use one of two options to process the visas.

Under the first option, travel partners can work with a DCT Abu Dhabi-appointed Destination Management Company (DMC), with DCT Abu Dhabi covering the visa costs directly.

Alternatively, travel partners can continue working with their existing DMC partners. In this case, DCT Abu Dhabi will provide a reimbursement of Dh285 for each visa issued.

The initiative is expected to make Abu Dhabi more accessible to Indian holidaymakers while encouraging longer stays and greater exploration of the emirate’s culture, entertainment, hospitality and natural attractions.