60 Visa-Free Countries for Indian Residents in UAE (2025 Updated List)

Visa-Free Travel Infographic

As an Indian citizen residing in UAE, you need to know about 60 countries which you can travel to for free without any visa or get visa on arrival. UAE residency opens the doors for you to travel to 60 countries in the world. Whether you're planning for tourist visa, have a meeting or business conference, want to attend an event, or visit family or friends, this guide lists all visa free countries specially for Indian citizens who are living in the United Arab Emirates.

This guide will help you along with travel tips, visa requirements, visa fees, how to apply, and what you need to know for each destination. Let's explore the world without any borders or without lengthy visa processes at least!

Visa-Free Travel Benefits for Indian Residents in UAE

Middle East Access

Easy travel to GCC and neighboring countries with visa-free or visa-on-arrival options

Asian Destinations

Explore Southeast Asia with simplified entry requirements

African Adventures

Discover safari destinations with visa-on-arrival facilities

European Getaways

Selected European countries offer visa-free entry for UAE residents

Who Qualifies for Visa-Free Entry?

To qualify for the visa free entry to these countries you must meet the following listed requirements:

  • You must have a valid Indian original passport
  • You're residing in UAE on work visa or residence visa with valid Emirates ID

Many countries now allow visa free or visa on arrival access to Indian citizens living in the UAE. This doesn't apply only for Indian citizens but also Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nepali, Filipino residents can travel to selected countries with valid UAE visa. However, Indian citizens have priority above all as they can travel to almost 60 countries for free.

✈ Important Note:

The final decision always depends on passport and UAE residence visa together — both must be valid.

What is the Difference Between Visa-Free, Visa on Arrival, and E-Visa?

Understanding the differences helps you plan your trip better:

Visa-Free

It means you don't need any visa at all. Just book your ticket and go.

Visa on Arrival

When you reach your destination country airport they will give you visa stamp to enter the country.

E-Visa

You need to apply online. They will send you a digital copy of visa to your email.

Tip: Always carry printouts of hotel bookings, travel insurance, and your return ticket — even for visa-free countries.

Top 60 Visa-Free and Visa-On-Arrival Countries for Indian Passport Holders

Below is the comprehensive list of countries you can visit with your Indian passport and UAE residency:

Middle East & GCC

  • Oman (e-visa for UAE residents)
  • Bahrain (Visa on arrival)
  • Qatar (Visa free for Indian citizens with UAE residency)
  • Saudi Arabia (Visa on arrival if you meet eligibility according to their criteria)
  • Kuwait (Online e-visa for UAE residents)
  • Jordan (Visa on Arrival)
  • Armenia (e-visa)

Asia & Southeast Asia

  • Georgia (Visa-free with UAE residence visa)
  • Azerbaijan (E-visa for UAE residents)
  • Sri Lanka (ETA – Electronic Travel Authorization)
  • Maldives (Visa on Arrival – 30 days)
  • Thailand (Visa on Arrival – 15 days)
  • Nepal (Visa-free)
  • Indonesia (Visa-free – 30 days)
  • Cambodia (Visa on Arrival)
  • Laos (Visa on Arrival)
  • Vietnam (E-visa)
  • Philippines (Visa-free – 14 days for UAE residents)
  • Malaysia (eVisa for Indian passport holders, fast approval)
  • Singapore (eVisa – valid for tourism)
  • Hong Kong (Pre-arrival registration required)

Africa

  • Kenya (Visa on Arrival/E-visa)
  • Tanzania (Visa on Arrival)
  • Rwanda (Visa on Arrival)
  • Mauritius (Visa-free – 60 days)
  • Seychelles (Visitor's Permit on Arrival)
  • Madagascar (Visa on Arrival)
  • Uganda (Visa on Arrival)
  • Ethiopia (eVisa)

Europe (Schengen & Non-Schengen)

Note: Most European countries need a Schengen visa, but a few allow Indian passport holders with UAE residency easier entry.

  • Serbia (Visa-free)
  • Albania (Visa-free for UAE residents)
  • Montenegro (Visa-free for UAE residents)
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina (Visa-free for UAE residents)
  • Turkey (E-visa if you hold US/UK/Schengen visa + UAE residency)
  • North Macedonia (Visa-free)

The Americas

  • Dominican Republic (Visa-free with UAE residence visa)
  • Bolivia (Visa on Arrival)
  • Ecuador (Visa-free – 90 days)
  • Haiti (Visa-free – 90 days)
  • Jamaica (Visa-free)
  • Barbados (Visa-free – 90 days)
  • Trinidad & Tobago (Visa-free)

Caribbean & Pacific

  • Saint Kitts and Nevis (Visa-free)
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Visa-free)
  • Fiji (Visa-free – 120 days)
  • Vanuatu (Visa-free)
  • Samoa (Visa on Arrival)
  • Tuvalu (Visa on Arrival)

Is UAE Visa Free For Indian Citizens?

Let's dive deep into this topic. While most people who don't have knowledge may think that UAE is visa free for Indian passport holders, this is not true. To enter any Gulf country with Indian passport you need a visa except Qatar which is visa free. For UAE you must need a visa.

What Makes You Eligible for Visa-Free Travel?

To enjoy visa free access to these 60 countries you need to ensure following documents:

  • You have a valid UAE Residence Visa (minimum for 3-6 months)
  • A Valid Passport which has at least 6 months of validity from the date of travel
  • You have return ticket, hotel bookings, sufficient funds to support your stay during visiting
  • Your visa should cover travel or health insurance

Cheapest Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival Countries for Indians in UAE

Country Approx. Travel Cost (AED) Visa Type
Georgia 1500–2000 Visa-free
Armenia 1300–1800 E-visa
Sri Lanka 1200–1700 ETA
Nepal 1000–1500 Visa-free
Azerbaijan 1500–2000 E-visa
Maldives 2000–2500 Visa on Arrival

Travel Tips for Better Journey to 60 Visa-Free Countries

To enjoy your journey and make it a memorable experience, here are some best travel tips advised by travelers who already visited these countries:

  • Always check official website of embassy/consulate before traveling
  • Ensure to have a return flight ticket and hotel booking in advance to avoid any delays or rejection
  • Always carry soft and printed copies of all legal documents with you
  • Respect local government laws and respect their culture
  • Don't fall victim to any illegal activity
  • Respect travel restrictions mentioned by each countries
  • Don't break the law ever as a tourist

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have a certain salary to qualify for visa-free travel?

No, there is no specific salary requirement for visa-free travel. However, some countries may ask for proof of sufficient funds to support your stay, which could be in the form of bank statements or salary certificates. The amount varies by destination.

Can I travel if my UAE residence visa is about to expire soon?

Most countries require that your UAE residence visa be valid for at least 3-6 months from your date of travel. It's recommended to renew your residence visa before planning international travel to avoid any issues at immigration.

Is travel insurance mandatory for visa-free countries?

While not all visa-free countries require travel insurance, it's highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances. Some countries may ask for proof of insurance upon arrival.

Can I extend my stay in visa-on-arrival countries?

Yes, in most cases you can extend your stay in visa-on-arrival countries by visiting the local immigration office and paying the required fees. However, the extension policies vary by country, and some may have strict limits on total duration of stay.

What should I do if I'm denied entry at a visa-free country?

While rare, if you're denied entry, remain calm and polite. Ask the immigration officer for the specific reason. Typically, airlines are required to return you to your point of origin. Contact your embassy if you feel the denial was unjust. Always carry your sponsor's contact information in UAE.

The ADDIE Model for Travel Planning

ANALYSIS

Analyze your travel needs to understand the destinations you want to visit.

DESIGN

Based on your analysis, design the best possible travel itinerary.

DEVELOPMENT

Bring your travel plans to life by booking flights and accommodations.

IMPLEMENTATION

Execute your travel plans and enjoy your journey.

EVALUATION

Evaluate your travel experience for future improvements.

Final Words

Having a UAE residence visa as an Indian passport holder opens the world up to you. From Europe to Southeast Asia, and from the Caribbean to the Middle East, you can enjoy hassle-free travel to 60+ countries — visa-free or on arrival.

Make the most of your residency status and start ticking countries off your travel bucket list in 2025!

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