Travelling to Dubai/UAE as a Dual National
If you hold citizenship of more than one country and are planning to travel to Dubai or the UAE from India, there are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth journey.
Key Consideration: The UAE generally requires travelers to enter and exit the country using the same passport. Therefore, it is crucial to decide which passport you will use for your entire trip to and from Dubai/UAE.
Choosing Which Passport to Use:
When deciding which passport to use, consider the following:
- Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for the UAE based on each of your nationalities. If you require a visa for one nationality but not the other (or if the process is simpler or faster for one), this might influence your decision. As you are travelling from India, check the specific visa regulations for Indian citizens and your other nationality.
- Passport Validity: Ensure the passport you choose to travel with has at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of entry into the UAE.
- Ease of Travel and Benefits: Consider any benefits or conveniences associated with either passport, such as visa-free entry or faster immigration processes in other countries you might be visiting on the same trip.
Key Points for Dual Nationals Travelling to Dubai/UAE:
- Enter and Exit with the Same Passport: You must use the same passport for both your entry and exit from the UAE. Switching passports mid-trip can lead to complications.
- Inform Airlines: When booking your flights, ensure the name on your ticket matches the name on the passport you will be using for travel. Inform the airline of your chosen passport at check-in.
- Visa on One Passport: If you require and obtain a visa using one of your passports, ensure you travel with that specific passport.
- Residency Considerations (if applicable): If you are a resident of the UAE holding another nationality, ensure your residency visa is linked to the passport you will be using to enter and exit.
- Passport Presentation at Immigration: Be prepared to present the same passport to immigration officials upon arrival and departure.
Travelling from India with an Indian Passport and Another Nationality:
If you are an Indian citizen also holding another nationality and are travelling to Dubai:
- Check UAE Visa Requirements for Your Other Nationality: Even if Indian citizens have specific visa regulations, your other nationality might have different rules. Ensure you are aware of the requirements for both.
- Using Your Indian Passport: If you are entering Dubai using your Indian passport (and require a visa, if applicable), you must also exit using your Indian passport.
- Using Your Other Passport: If you choose to enter Dubai using your other passport (assuming you have the necessary visa or it allows visa-free entry), you must also exit using that same passport.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general guidance only. Immigration laws and regulations can change. If you are a dual national travelling to Dubai/UAE from India, it is highly recommended to verify the latest requirements with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICA) or the UAE Embassy/Consulate in India to ensure a smooth and compliant journey.
