Abu Dhabi Launches Free UAE Visa Offer for Indian Tourists

Planning a vacation to Abu Dhabi just got more affordable for Indian travellers. In a major boost for tourism, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has introduced a new programme that offers free UAE entry visas to eligible Indian tourists booking holiday packages to the emirate.

The initiative is designed to encourage more visitors from India, one of Abu Dhabi's most important tourism markets, while making travel to the UAE easier and more cost-effective.

Free UAE Visa for Indian Travellers

Under the newly announced scheme, Indian passport holders can receive a UAE entry visa at no additional cost when they book an eligible Abu Dhabi holiday package through participating travel partners and online travel agencies (OTAs).

To qualify for the offer, travellers must:

• Hold a valid Indian passport.
• Travel from India to Abu Dhabi.
• Book a holiday package through a participating travel partner or OTA.
• Include a minimum three-night consecutive stay at a hotel in Abu Dhabi.
• Have a return flight booking from India.

The programme is expected to reduce overall travel expenses for Indian tourists and make Abu Dhabi an even more attractive destination for family vacations, leisure trips, and short getaways.

Offer Valid for 92 Days

The free visa initiative will run for 92 days, starting August 1, 2026, and continuing until October 31, 2026.

During this period, DCT Abu Dhabi will bear the full cost of the UAE entry visa for eligible bookings.

In its official statement, DCT Abu Dhabi said:

"The programme has been developed exclusively for participating travel partners and online travel agencies. Travellers booking a three-night Abu Dhabi package through participating partners will receive their UAE entry visa at no additional cost."

How the Programme Works

The initiative has been designed to work seamlessly with travel companies and tourism partners.

Participating travel partners can choose one of two models:

1. DCT-Appointed DMC Route

Travel partners can work with a Destination Management Company (DMC) appointed by DCT Abu Dhabi. In this case, the tourism department will directly cover the cost of the visa.

2. Existing DMC Partner Route

Travel partners can continue using their current DMC partners and later receive a reimbursement of AED 285 (approximately ₹7,390) for every eligible visa issued.

This flexible approach aims to simplify implementation while encouraging broader participation across the travel industry.

The programme will initially cover up to 20,000 visas, making it a pilot initiative with significant potential impact. If successful, it could further strengthen tourism ties between Abu Dhabi and India.

The move reflects Abu Dhabi's ongoing efforts to attract a larger share of Indian outbound travellers and enhance collaboration with travel agencies, tour operators, and online booking platforms.

The UAE remains one of the most popular international destinations for Indian travellers thanks to its proximity, world-class attractions, luxury hospitality, family-friendly experiences, and strong flight connectivity.

By eliminating visa costs for eligible visitors, Abu Dhabi is lowering one of the key expenses associated with international travel. For families and group travellers, the savings can be substantial, making a holiday in the emirate even more appealing.

From the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi to Yas Island's theme parks, pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and luxury resorts, visitors now have another reason to choose Abu Dhabi for their next overseas trip.

Final Takeaway

Indian travellers planning a UAE vacation between August and October 2026 should keep an eye on participating travel partners and online travel agencies. By booking a package that includes a minimum three-night stay in Abu Dhabi, eligible tourists can receive a free UAE entry visa, potentially saving around ₹7,390 per person.

With only 20,000 visas available under the pilot programme, interested travellers may want to secure their bookings early and take advantage of this limited-time benefit.

Tags: Abu Dhabi free visa offer, UAE visa free for Indians, Abu Dhabi tourism 2026, free UAE entry visa, Indian tourists Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi holiday packages, UAE travel news, Abu Dhabi travel offers, UAE visa for Indian passport holders, DCT Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi visa scheme, UAE tourism promotion, Abu Dhabi three night stay offer, Indian travellers UAE, Abu Dhabi travel packages 2026