Dubai mandates AED3,000 cash requirement for travelers on visit visas
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by Balikbayan Store
1 min reading time
According to tourism agencies and recent traveler experiences reported by Khaleej Times, individuals traveling to Dubai on visit visas must now ensure they carry Dh3,000 in cash or have an equivalent amount available on a credit card, a valid return ticket, and confirmed accommodation details to avoid entry issues.
Firoz Maliyakkal, founder and CEO of Tahira Tours and Travels, emphasized that the authorities are intensifying checks at the departure points. "People traveling to Dubai must have a valid visa with a passport having validity of at least six months. A confirmed return ticket is a must, and now, authorities are also ensuring travelers carry sufficient funds and have a valid accommodation address in the UAE," he said.
Libin Varghese from Rooh Travel and Tourism explained the rationale behind these stringent checks. "Airport checks are being conducted to safeguard travelers arriving in Dubai. There have been many cases of overstaying. This step will positively impact the tourism sector of the emirate," he noted.
Travelers have already faced challenges due to these strict guidelines. Abin S, a passenger who arrived from Kerala, shared his ordeal. "I was asked to show Dh3,000 and a return ticket upon my arrival. Although I had these, I struggled with providing proof of accommodation since I was staying with my cousin who rents a room in Dubai and doesn't have accommodation in his name. I ended up staying at the airport for four days before returning home," he recounted.
In another incident, Indian tourist Abhishek was denied boarding at Cochin International Airport. His brother-in-law, Bijesh, explained, "The airport staff insisted on seeing a valid hotel stay proof or Dh5,000 in cash. Despite having Rs50,000, they demanded it in dirhams." Abhishek's plans were disrupted, and despite efforts to secure a refund, the strict enforcement of these rules meant he incurred financial losses.
Tourism agencies urge travelers to verify all entry requirements thoroughly before their departure to avoid such complications.