Expats In Oman Must Show Hotel, Return Flight Bookings For UAE Tourist Visa
Previously, travellers needed only a valid passport and a photograph. Under the updated requirements, all applications must now be submitted via the UAE's websites of ICP and GDRFA, or through the ICP App and Dubai Now with supporting documents, including confirmed accommodation and return travel plans.
'Travel agencies have been instructed to submit hotel and flight tickets with every visa application,' Soumava Mukherjee, General Manager of Travel City–Travel Point LLC, told the Times of Oman .
'If not, applications may face delays or even rejection.' Mukherjee added that individuals staying with relatives in the UAE must also submit a copy of a house lease agreement from their host.
The changes come alongside rising visa costs. What once cost OMR30 is now being charged at rates between OMR40 and OMR50, depending on the agency. 'Travel agents have started charging anything in between OMR40 and OMR50 for the UAE visa,' said T. Sudheer, an Indian expatriate currently applying for a visa.
The new requirements apply to both tourist and visit visa categories. According to Taufiq Uzzaman, Managing Director of Taufiq Travel and Tourism in Ruwi, the UAE authorities have introduced the policy as part of broader efforts to streamline visa processing and enhance regulatory compliance.
'This change, applicable to both tourist and visit visas, aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance,' Uzzaman told to the Times of Oman .

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Gulf Insider
7 days ago
- Gulf Insider
Expats In Oman Must Show Hotel, Return Flight Bookings For UAE Tourist Visa
Travel agencies in Oman have confirmed that new regulations require applicants for 30-day tourist and visit visas to the United Arab Emirates to submit hotel booking confirmations and return flight tickets at the time of application, according to the Times of Oman . Previously, travellers needed only a valid passport and a photograph. Under the updated requirements, all applications must now be submitted via the UAE's websites of ICP and GDRFA, or through the ICP App and Dubai Now with supporting documents, including confirmed accommodation and return travel plans. 'Travel agencies have been instructed to submit hotel and flight tickets with every visa application,' Soumava Mukherjee, General Manager of Travel City–Travel Point LLC, told the Times of Oman . 'If not, applications may face delays or even rejection.' Mukherjee added that individuals staying with relatives in the UAE must also submit a copy of a house lease agreement from their host. The changes come alongside rising visa costs. What once cost OMR30 is now being charged at rates between OMR40 and OMR50, depending on the agency. 'Travel agents have started charging anything in between OMR40 and OMR50 for the UAE visa,' said T. Sudheer, an Indian expatriate currently applying for a visa. The new requirements apply to both tourist and visit visa categories. According to Taufiq Uzzaman, Managing Director of Taufiq Travel and Tourism in Ruwi, the UAE authorities have introduced the policy as part of broader efforts to streamline visa processing and enhance regulatory compliance. 'This change, applicable to both tourist and visit visas, aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance,' Uzzaman told to the Times of Oman .


Gulf Insider
25-06-2025
- Gulf Insider
Dubai Residents Can Now Instantly Check Credit Scores Online
Etihad Credit Bureau partners with DubaiNow to allow users to access credit reports and scores directly in-app. Picture for illustrative purposes only Dubai residents can now check their credit reports and scores directly through the DubaiNow app, thanks to a new integration with the Etihad Credit Bureau. The collaboration between Etihad Credit Bureau (ECB) and DubaiNow, the UAE's leading unified government services app, allows users to access their personal Credit Report and Credit Score in real time with a single click—simplifying financial planning and enhancing digital accessibility. DubaiNow offers more than 300 integrated services from both government and private sector entities. With the new feature, users can log in to the app and instantly view their credit insights—supporting informed financial decisions and streamlining access to key personal data. Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director General of Etihad Credit Bureau, said: 'Etihad Credit Bureau is committed to advancing the UAE's digital transformation agenda by fostering integration across local government platforms. 'This collaboration with DubaiNow exemplifies our mission to simplify access to vital credit information while enhancing user experience. 'By leveraging advanced technology and seamless application programming interfaces (APIs), we've made it easier than ever to stay informed about your credit health through the digital channels individuals use most. The initiative aligns with the UAE's 'We the UAE 2031' vision, which aims to build a pioneering digital society. Matar Al Hemeiri, Chief Executive, Digital Dubai Government Establishment, said: 'We are pleased to announce the joining of Etihad Credit Bureau to the 'Dubai Now' application, enabling users to easily and quickly access their credit information anytime. 'This step embodies Etihad Credit Bureau's leading position and reflects its commitment to advancing the digitalization of life in the United Arab Emirates, thereby facilitating people's lives and supporting the foundations of the digital economy.' This is not the first time Etihad Credit Bureau has joined forces with a digital platform. The bureau's previous integration with TAMM Abu Dhabi proved successful, and this new partnership with DubaiNow underscores ECB's continued commitment to broadening access and efficiency across the Emirates. Benefits of the integration include: Credit report and score: Instantly view credit health through app Instantly view credit health through app Increased accessibility: Available anytime, anywhere via the app. Available anytime, anywhere via the app. Support for financial literacy: Empowers users to make informed borrowing decisions. Empowers users to make informed borrowing decisions. Aligned with UAE Vision 2031: Advances the smart services agenda


Gulf Insider
18-06-2025
- Gulf Insider
UAE Waives Visa Fines for Iranians
The UAE has announced a waiver on visa fines for Iranians currently in the country. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced the exemption of Iranian citizens currently in the UAE from all overstay fines. This applies to both residents and visitors, regardless of their visa type. The measure is a direct response to the exceptional circumstances in the region, aiming to alleviate the burden on individuals who have been unable to return to Iran due to airspace closures and flight suspensions. While reaffirming its dedication to humanitarian considerations and its commitment to providing comprehensive support to all residents and visitors in the United Arab Emirates, ICP calls upon those eligible for this exemption to register via the ICP Smart Services Platform or visit any customer happiness centre in the country. Also read: UAE Ranked 5th in Global Competitiveness Ranking; Cabinet Reviews $1.4tn Trade Success