India has broadened its Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) scheme for United Arab Emirates nationals, adding Kochi, Calicut and Ahmedabad to the six airports already offering the facility. Eligible UAE travellers—those who have previously held an Indian e-visa or paper visa—can obtain a 60-day, double-entry VoA for tourism, business, medical or conference purposes.
The Gulf market is India’s second-largest inbound corridor, accounting for 4.2 million arrivals in 2024. Industry analysts predict the extra gateways could divert passengers away from congested hubs in Delhi and Mumbai, distributing demand more evenly and boosting regional economies.
![Visa-on-Arrival for UAE Citizens Extended to Kochi, Calicut and Ahmedabad]()
Kerala’s hospitality sector expects a 12 per cent uptick in winter bookings from GCC residents flying nonstop to Kochi and Calicut. Meanwhile, Gujarat’s travel-tech start-ups are eyeing Emirati investors now able to attend roadshows visa-free.
Travel managers should note: applicants must still pay a ₹2,000 fee at arrival, hold six-month passport validity and complete Appendix A forms. UAE citizens of Pakistani origin remain ineligible under existing exclusions.
The Gulf market is India’s second-largest inbound corridor, accounting for 4.2 million arrivals in 2024. Industry analysts predict the extra gateways could divert passengers away from congested hubs in Delhi and Mumbai, distributing demand more evenly and boosting regional economies.
Kerala’s hospitality sector expects a 12 per cent uptick in winter bookings from GCC residents flying nonstop to Kochi and Calicut. Meanwhile, Gujarat’s travel-tech start-ups are eyeing Emirati investors now able to attend roadshows visa-free.
Travel managers should note: applicants must still pay a ₹2,000 fee at arrival, hold six-month passport validity and complete Appendix A forms. UAE citizens of Pakistani origin remain ineligible under existing exclusions.
