Dubai Travel Guide for Indians: Visa, Costs and Getting Around

Dubai is often the first choice for Indians when they think about a quick vacation. After all, the flying time between the two destinations is less than four hours. Read out our exclusive guide to Dubai from India and for Indians.

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Before You Book (October 2026)

• The region is not calm. Fighting involving Iran, Israel and the United States has disrupted Gulf airspace since the end of February 2026. Dubai's airports stopped flights for some days in March; in early September 2026 flights were again delayed and a few cancelled. Indian and Emirati airlines are flying, but schedules can change at short notice.
• Some attractions closed in March 2026 and are reopening for the winter: Dubai Parks and Resorts on 7 October, Global Village on 14 October. The Museum of the Future is closed for an overhaul until early 2027.
• Before you pay, check your airline's flight status and the advisories of the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai, and buy travel insurance that covers cancellations and delays.

Dubai for Indians?

As per the data put out by Dubai Tourism, in the first half of 2019 alone, Dubai received around one million Indians. Unsurprisingly, it’s one of the dream holiday spots for most Indians. (2026: India was again Dubai's largest source of visitors in 2025.)

So if you’re one among them and considering a trip here, this exclusive Dubai travel guide for Indians, covering everything from visa information and culture and customs to the city’s top attractions and entertainment options, will prove helpful to plan your perfect Dubai holiday.

Dubai: Essential Information

1. Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
2. It’s the second-largest city in the UAE, after Abu Dhabi which is also the country’s capital city.
3. HH Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the ruler of Dubai. He’s also the country’s prime minister and the vice president.
4. Arabic is the local language.
5. Emiratis constitute less than 20% of the overall population, with over 80% being the ex-pat community from over 150 countries.
6. The UAE Dirham or AED is the local currency and is pegged to the US Dollar, exchangeable at a rate of AED 3.67 per one USD. As per the current rate, one dirham is equivalent to a somewhat 19.5 Indian Rupee. (2026: about ₹26 to the dirham on 1 October 2026.)
7. There are ATMs and reliable money exchange bureaus all over the city. (2026: UPI works too, by scanning the shop's QR code with your usual app, at many shops, malls and restaurants, Dubai Duty Free and Lulu among them; you pay in rupees from your Indian account.)
8. Dubai International Airport is the world’s fifth-busiest airport. There is also Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South.
9. Dubai’s eclectic neighborhoods like Bur Dubai and Karama have the greatest concentration of Indians.
10. Unlike India, the weekend in Dubai falls on Fridays and Saturdays. (2026: no longer. Since January 2022 the weekend is Saturday and Sunday, and Friday is a half day for government offices.)

Culture & Customs

Dubai is a part of the Islamic nation means its culture, customs and traditions are deeply entrenched in its religious roots. Despite its conservative culture, it’s a liberal Arabian metropolis that respects and (of course) welcomes diverse world cultures and traditions wholeheartedly.

And as for the language and other aspects, Indians will find it easy to communicate and navigate the city, with the majority of the ex-pat community being people from different parts of India.

Plan Your Dubai Trip

• Best Time to Visit: You can travel to Dubai during any part of the year, however, the most recommended time is during the cool, pleasant winter months (November to April), particularly if you enjoy the outdoors or want to participate in popular events like DSF (Dubai Shopping Festival). Al though Dubai never slows during summer months (May to September), it’s still good to know that the temperature outside will be exceedingly high reaching up to 55 degrees Celsius.
• Recommended Duration: With tons of attractions and experiences to discover, you’ll need at least four to five days to take in Dubai’s top attractions.
• What to Pack?
  • Dress: This should be according to the time you’re planning to visit. When it comes to what dress to pack, check your travel itinerary and pack accordingly:
    • At Religious Sites: Ladies should wear loose clothing that covers your head, shoulders, and knees.
    • Theme Parks: Choose comfortable clothing that is not revealing.
    • Beaches: You can wear whatever you usually put on your beach visit. But, make sure that you dress modestly and don’t go topless.
    • Must-have: Now even if it’s summer or winter, dress modestly. Also, carry a cardigan as the malls and other indoor attractions are air-conditioned and hence super cool in every climate.
  • Cosmetics & Medications: Besides your regular beauty creams and medications, be sure to pack a good quality sunscreen as Dubai has year-round intense sunshine.
  • Other accessories: Hats, sunglasses, and a pair of good quality footwear.
  • Gadgets: There is so much to see in Dubai means it also allows for some insta-worthy pictures. So come prepared with (camera, tripod, etc) to capture the best ever clicks.
• Where to stay? Choose an accommodation that provides easy access to all attractions and experiences covered in your travel program. If shopping and entertainment are high on your priority, consider accommodation in Al Barsha or Downtown Dubai. If you’re looking for budget-friendly choices, there are some decent choices across Dubai’s Bur Dubai and Deira regions. (2026: every hotel adds a Tourism Dirham fee of AED 7 to 20 a room a night, by star rating, on top of the room rate.)

Visas for Indians in 2026

Checked in October 2026. Rules change; your airline sees the latest, so ask it before you fly.

• Most Indians need a visa before they fly. Apply online through your airline (Emirates and other UAE airlines sell them), your hotel or a licensed travel agent; it usually takes two to four working days. A 30-day single-entry tourist visa usually costs ₹7,000 to 11,500 all in, depending on who applies for you.
• Visa on arrival is only for Indians who also hold a valid visa, residence permit or Green Card from the United States, an EU country, Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore or South Korea (the last six were added in February 2025). Reports from July 2026 say a UK visa or residence permit on its own no longer qualifies. It costs AED 100 (about ₹2,600) for 14 days, extendable once by 14 days, or AED 250 (about ₹6,500) for 60 days.
• Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the day you land.
• Carry a printout of your visa and your return ticket; check-in staff in India often ask for both.

Dubai Visa Information

(The details below are from 2022. For the rules today, see "Visas for Indians in 2026" just above.)

Dubai visa or UAE visa can be used to travel anywhere in the country. Indians planning for a short trip to Dubai can apply for a Tourist Visa, Visit Visa or a Transit Visa. There is also a multiple-entry visa which is especially ideal for those who wish to fly in and out of Dubai multiple times during the duration of the visa.

Some Indians are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (check below for more details) too. Apart from these, people traveling to Dubai or UAE during the period from July 15 to September 15 don’t have to pay any visa charge for their kids (under 18 years). All tourist visas except for 30-day visas are non-renewable.

• Tourist Visa: Depending on the number of days you wish to spend here, you can apply for a tourist visa valid for 14 days, 30 days, or 90 days. You can apply for a tourist visa via a reputable visa service provider or through airlines. The following are the requirements of a tourist visa.

  • Accurately filled out the tourist visa application form.
  • A valid Indian passport that holds a validity of at least six months from the date you plan to enter Dubai or UAE.
  • Scanned copies of the first and last pages of your passport.
  • Clear passport size photographs of passengers taken against a white background.
  • If you’re female planning to travel alone, attach a NOC from your father or husband.
  • We recommend checking out good resources from the internet on Dubai Tourist Visa & Dubai Visa

• Visit Visa: This is particularly ideal for Indians who are visiting their friends or relatives settled in Dubai. You can approach a reliable service provider or get this visa applied or sponsored through your acquaintance in Dubai, but whose salary should be at least AED 6000. This includes 30-day and 90-day visas. And the requirements for its application include:

  • A letter which details the purpose of your visit.
  • A valid Indian passport that holds a validity of at least six months from the date you plan to enter Dubai or UAE.
  • Scanned copies of the first and last pages of your passport.
  • Clear passport size photographs of passengers taken against a white background.
  • Your Dubai sponsor’s passport and resident visa copies.
  • A security deposit of up to AED 2000 per visa. This is refundable but only once you submit the proof of your exit from the country.

• Transit Visa: Now if you’re planning to visit Dubai on a layover to another destination, you can obtain a free 48-hour transit visa from the airport. However, a nominal charge of AED 50 is applicable if you wish to extend it for another 48 hours. The following documents are required for its application:

  • A valid Indian passport that holds a validity of at least six months from the date you plan to enter Dubai or UAE.
  • Scanned copies of the first and last pages of your passport.
  • Clear passport size photographs of passengers taken against a white background.
  • The confirmed air ticket of your onward journey
  • Confirmed hotel booking

• Visa on Arrival: This is applicable to only those Indians who hold a residency visa of the UK or European Union.

OK to Board?

This is a mandatory procedure to be adhered to by Indians planning for a short or temporary visit to the UAE. If you don’t know what Ok to Board is, it’s a simple procedure wherein your airline conducts a check in order to ensure the legitimacy of your UAE travel documents, mainly passport, UAE visa, etc.

In fact, you’ll be able to board the plane and travel only if your airline verifies all documents and update your PNR status as ‘OK to Board.’ Apart from this, you can seek the help of your visa service provider to get this process done for a nominal charge. (2026: the rule now differs by airline, and some no longer ask for it. Ask yours a few days before you fly, and carry a printout of your visa.)

Dubai Attractions & Experiences

This list is especially for first-timers traveling to Dubai. Additionally, check out our detailed blog on places to visit in Dubai.

• Burj Khalifa: Towering over Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building. A picture against this mammoth, 828-meter high structure makes a great souvenir picture of your Dubai visit. You can further take to its observation deck on 124^th level or 148^th level for the most panoramic views over Dubai and beyond. (2026: from about AED 170, or ₹4,400, outside the 4 to 7 pm sunset hours; prices for the classic sights are in our five sights guide.)

• Dubai Mall & Dubai Dancing Fountain Show: Right next to the Burj Khalifa is Dubai Mall which is one of the world’s biggest malls. If you think it’s just for shopping (with over 1200 outlets), the reality is that it’s an ultimate leisure and edutainment spot, with attractions such as Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, KidZania, VR Park, etc. Placed amid Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall is the fabulous ever Dubai Fountain which blows you away with the largest of its choreographed water show.

• Bastakiya Quarter: One of the best ways to get your fill of Emirati culture and past is to make a visit to the Bastakiya Quarter or Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. This heritage site is well preserved with its ancient sand-colored structures complemented by wind towers and traditional courtyards. Besides a trip to its top attractions such as Dubai Museum and Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, you can take an abra ride along Dubai Creek. (2026: Dubai Museum has been closed for restoration since 2021, with a reopening promised soon. The abra costs AED 1.)

• Ski Dubai: This is undoubtedly Dubai’s coolest attraction. Located within the Mall of the Emirates, this gives you the chance to participate in authentic snow activities even when Dubai simmers with a temperature of over 50 degrees Celsius.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: This is the region’s first-of-its-kind integrated resort with three theme parks and a water park under its roof, such as Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Yes, you guessed it right; Bollywood Parks is dedicated to your favorite Hindi movies and iconic characters. (2026: Bollywood Parks closed for good in 2023, and Real Madrid World opened in its place in 2024. The whole resort was shut from March 2026 and reopens on 7 October 2026.)

• Palm Jumeirah: The palm-tree shaped Palm Jumeirah is probably the first thing that comes into the mind when one thinks about Dubai. The exquisiteness of this man-made island is best experienced from a sky-high viewpoint on a helicopter ride or a sky diving adventure. If this is not affordable, go on a sightseeing tour or take a monorail ride which covers almost the entire of Palm Island, from Al Sufouh Gateway Station to Aquaventure Waterpark within Atlantis, The Palm Hotel.

• Burj Al Arab: This is yet another attraction that stands as an epitome of Dubai’s unrivaled grandeur. After all, it’s touted as the world’s only seven-star hotel. Now if you want to experience its regal interiors, book a table at one of its many opulent dining venues. (2026: the hotel closed in April 2026 for restoration and is expected to reopen around October 2027; until then, see it from the beach next door.)

• Desert Safari: This is one of the best ways to get introduced to Dubai’s untouched desert landscape. Besides heart-racing experiences like dune bash, sandboarding, etc, it allows you to sink into the best aspects of Bedouin culture and traditions, with activities including a camel ride, Shisha smoking, and falconry. (2026: shared evening safaris with hotel pick-up and dinner cost about AED 130 to 250, or ₹3,400 to 6,500.)

• Dinner Dhow Cruise: Onboard a traditional wooden Arabian dhow, this cruise along Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina promises you a magical night out in Dubai with the most stunning views, scrumptious food, and scintillating live performances.

Shopping in Dubai

From the traditional Arabian bazaars (souks) to the coolest shopping malls, Dubai is a true shoppers’ haven. Even if you aren’t into shopping, you can’t help but stop at its many extraordinary shopping hotspots.

While each of its 65 plus malls is a world unto itself, don’t overlook its atmospheric souks, particularly Gold Souk which is definite to leave you in awe with its hundreds of shops selling striking gold jewelry. (2026: before you buy gold, read what Indian customs allow, under "Coming Home to India" below.)

Where to Eat?

Dubai offers almost everything that your taste buds crave, from sumptuous local treats to specialties from acclaimed fast-food chains like KFC, McDonald’s, and Papa Johns to authentic Mexican, American, Malay, and Chinese cuisines.

Now if your liking for Indian cuisines is stanch, you’ll be spoilt for choices with a staggering array of Indian restaurants all over the city. Peppermill and Options by Sanjeev Kumar are just a few of them. And the best thing is that the city caters to every budget, no matter you’re looking for high-end dining options or super affordable venues.

Getting Around

Metro: This is probably Dubai’s most popular transport option. Being driverless and completely automated, it’s a must-experience during your Dubai vacation. The major plus is that it’s super swift and affordable too. (2026: a Silver Nol card costs AED 25, with AED 19 of it to spend; rides cost AED 3 to 7.50 by the number of zones, and the airport to Downtown is AED 7.50, about ₹195.)

Public Bus: With over 1500 air-conditioned buses, this is a budget-friendly option to travel anywhere in Dubai.

Cab: Hiring a cab is undoubtedly the most hassle-free option to get around in the city.

Dubai Ferry: With five ferry terminals, this water transport is ideal for anyone looking for an exotic way to discover Dubai’s stunning sights.

All of the above transport options are operated by the Dubai Government’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA). Purchase an NOL card that can be used to make payment for all RTA transport.

What Things Cost (October 2026)

In dirhams, with rupees at about ₹26 to the dirham. Prices change with the season and the seller.

What	Price	About in ₹
Visa on arrival, 14 days (if you qualify)	AED 100	₹2,600
Tourist e-visa, 30 days, through an airline or agent	Set by the seller, in rupees	₹7,000–11,500
Tourism Dirham, added to your hotel bill	AED 7–20 a room a night	₹180–520
Silver Nol card (AED 19 of it to spend)	AED 25	₹650
A Metro ride	AED 3–7.50	₹80–195
Abra across Dubai Creek	AED 1	₹26
Burj Khalifa, At the Top	AED 170–180; about AED 250 from 4 to 7 pm	₹4,400–4,700; about ₹6,500
Dubai Aquarium tunnel and Underwater Zoo	From about AED 150	From about ₹3,900
Dubai Frame	About AED 50	About ₹1,300
Shared evening desert safari	AED 130–250	₹3,400–6,500
Global Village (last season's price)	AED 25–30	₹650–780
Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain	Free	Free

Coming Home to India

• The Air Suvidha form is back. Since 25 June 2026 every international passenger arriving in India must fill the free online health self-declaration (your travel history for the past 21 days, and any symptoms) within 24 hours before the flight. Show it at the health desk on arrival.
• Duty-free allowance: ₹75,000 a person under India's Baggage Rules 2026 (it was ₹50,000).
• Gold: the duty-free jewellery allowance (20 grams for men, 40 grams for women) is only for Indians who have lived abroad for a year or more, so a holiday does not qualify. Declare gold at the red channel; gold coins and bars pay duty from the first gram.

Top Dubai Travel Tips

• Pre-book to lock in the best rates for your accommodation, flight tickets, etc.
• For the best value, choose an all-inclusive package with sightseeing, cruise, and desert safari.
• Don’t eat or drink in public if you’re visiting here during Ramadan. (2026: Ramadan 2027 is expected from about 8 February to 9 March 2027, subject to the moon sighting.)
• Penalty may be imposed if you’re found smoking or drinking in public.
• Be cautious while taking pictures; capturing images of government buildings, locals (particularly local Emirati women) are not allowed.
• Apart from your visa and passport, carry your important documents like travel insurance and international driving license if you plan to drive your own.

Conclusion

A trip to Dubai can be overwhelming without a proper plan or travel program. We hope that this extensive Dubai travel guide will come in handy to plan your dream Arabian holiday.

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