UAE Implements Visiting Visa Rules: Passengers detained at Airports

Dubai Implements Stringent Airport Inspections for Visiting Visa Holders

In response to growing concerns over unauthorized job seekers entering the country, Dubai’s immigration department has initiated rigorous inspections and checks at UAE airports, with a particular focus on individuals arriving on visiting visas. These intensified measures aim to prevent potential misuse of tourist visas for employment purposes and ensure compliance with immigration regulations. As a result of these heightened scrutiny measures, hundreds of passengers, primarily originating from Kottayam and Idukki districts in Kerala, have been subjected to detainment at airports due to insufficient or improper travel documentation.

The implementation of stricter inspection protocols commenced at Kerala’s Kochi and Kozhikode airports, reflecting an increased vigilance following previous instances of passengers being detained upon arrival in the UAE. The impact of these stringent measures has been palpable, with reports indicating that more than 20 passengers were denied boarding at the Cochin International Airport on a single day, while up to five individuals are being refused travel at the Calicut International Airport daily. Consequently, a significant number of passengers, particularly those hailing from Kozhikode, have had to abruptly cancel their travel plans, resulting in inconvenience and disruption.

Airline companies have been instructed to strictly enforce guidelines mandating that visiting visa holders furnish documents confirming hotel bookings and demonstrate possession of 5,000 dirhams (approximately Rs 1.3 lakh) for their expenses upon arrival. Passengers arriving at the airport with only a visa and air tickets have found themselves unable to board flights, as airlines rigorously adhere to these stipulations. Even after providing visa details, phone numbers, and addresses of relatives or friends in the UAE who were expected to receive them, passengers faced travel restrictions. Those whose journeys were canceled were neither refunded nor permitted to reschedule their travel plans, leading to prolonged waits at the airport before returning home.

Indigo Airlines officials have confirmed receiving directives regarding the mandatory submission of hotel booking documents and proof of possessing 5,000 dirhams in addition to the visa and return ticket, effective as of Tuesday night. The guidelines underscore the airline companies’ responsibility in ensuring passengers possess appropriate documentation to avoid landing in the UAE without proper papers, with potential fines of 5,000 dirhams per passenger.

These stringent measures represent a significant departure from previous practices and mark the first instance of airports implementing such rigorous monitoring measures for passengers bound for the UAE. Notably, visiting visa holders are required to carry or have access to 3,000 dirhams (approximately Rs 68,000) for a month-long visa and 5,000 dirhams for an extended visa duration. Credit cards with these prescribed limits are also deemed acceptable.

Guidelines for Visiting Visa Holders Arriving in Dubai:

1. Airport officials will conduct inquiries regarding the purpose of the visit, accommodation arrangements, and the availability of funds for expenses. Unsatisfactory responses may result in passengers being prohibited from leaving the airport.
2. Visiting visa and tourist visa holders are strictly prohibited from engaging in employment activities. It is illegal for travel agencies and recruitment firms to promise job opportunities to visiting visa holders.
3. Holders of employment visas must complete the necessary visa procedures upon arrival to obtain authorization for work in the UAE.
4. For those visiting for tourism purposes, providing details of the hotel accommodation, return ticket, and funds for expenses is imperative.
5. If visiting relatives or friends, officials may request copies of their visa and passport, as well as details of their address, phone number, and accommodation.