TRAVELLERS to Dubai can “soon” apply for multiple-entry visas, an option that the emirate is introducing to encourage more visitorship, especially from India.
Speaking to TTG Asia e-Daily at Arabian Travel Market (ATM), Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), would only say: “It will be announced soon. This will make it easier, for example, for Indians to access (visit) Dubai.”
The news was music to travel consultants’ ears.
Amorntheep Bhatia, managing director of Bangkok-based Orient Travels, who visits Dubai up to thrice a year on business, said the proposed policy would definitely boost business for Dubai and encourage more visits.
He added that a multiple-entry visa helps particularly when a businessperson has to visit Dubai at short notice.
Likewise, Vikram Singh, director – sales and marketing, The Paul Resorts & Hotels from Bengaluru, said: “This will enable me to come two or three times and hopefully reduce visa fee costs.” He said Singapore, another attraction for Indians, also offers multiple-entry visas.
Kazim said Dubai is also mulling giving online visas to more countries, a facility now available only to 13 countries in Europe. In addition, nationals from 50 countries including Brunei, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan are currently eligible for visas on arrival.
