Flying to the UAE? Dubai, Abu Dhabi increase checks to prevent misuse of tourist visas, ET TravelWorld

Travellers heading to the UAE are now subject to stricter immigration checks at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports. Authorities have mandated that visitors carry proof of at least INR 60,000 in their bank account or have a credit card and a return ticket. This measure aims to prevent the misuse of tourist visas.

Sources indicate that first-time travellers from Tamil Nadu and Kerala are particularly under scrutiny. These checks have led to delays at Indian airports as airlines now ensure passengers meet these requirements before allowing them to board.

The increased vigilance follows incidents where passengers arriving on tourist visas lacked sufficient funds or return tickets, leading to deportations. Airlines are now required to verify that solo travellers, especially women aged 20-35, comply with these rules to avoid having to return deported passengers at their own expense.

The UAE‘s crackdown is a response to travellers entering the country without sufficient resources or accommodation plans and those overstaying their 96-hour transit visas. Basheer Ahmed of Chennai Metro Travels explained, “The checks are happening because it has been found that people are entering the UAE for jobs using tourist visas. Some of them cancel their return tickets and stay on. There is no problem for genuine tourists, family, and group travellers.”

Check-in times have increased, particularly with low-cost carriers, as they ensure compliance with these new immigration checks. Reports suggest that at least ten individuals have been deported for not having return tickets or proof of accommodation.Sriharan Balan of Madura Travels noted, “Tourists are not affected. A large number of them are travelling to the UAE. Immigration is checking for two things: people entering the UAE for jobs on tourist visas and the Kuruvi movement.” He also mentioned that visa issuance by different emirates has led to additional scrutiny.

Despite it being the off-peak season for travel, there is high demand for flights to the Middle East, resulting in full flights and high fares. Travellers are advised to ensure they meet all entry requirements to avoid inconvenience.