UAE Eases Entry for Indonesian Nationals with New Pre-Approved Visit Scheme

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) immigration authority has officially expanded a programme offering pre-approved 14-day entry permits for Emirates airline passengers, including Indonesian nationals. Announced on Wednesday, the policy allows eligible travellers to obtain entry clearance more easily before departure. The programme also applies to citizens of South Africa, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and Vietnam. However, not all Indonesian citizens can utilise this facility. The programme is only valid for passengers flying to Dubai with Emirates and holding a confirmed return or onward Emirates ticket. Applicants must also meet several requirements, including a stay in the UAE of more than 48 hours and a maximum of 14 days. The date of arrival in the UAE must be no more than 30 days from the date of application. Travellers must possess a residence permit valid for at least six months from one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, European Union member states, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom, or the United States. For the US, applicants must hold a valid Green Card, as student visas do not qualify. The application process will be facilitated by VFS Global through the Dubai Visa Processing Centre platform. The online system is designed to expedite and simplify the visa application process for eligible tourists. Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Business Development at VFS Global, stated that the policy is expected to enhance the travel experience for visitors to the UAE. He described the initiative as a significant step in improving the visitor experience, leveraging the long-term partnership with Emirates and VFS Global’s digital capabilities to deliver a faster and smoother visa application process. VFS Global noted that the policy is part of the UAE’s efforts to streamline entry procedures for tourists while reinforcing its position as a global tourism and business centre.