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UAE expands visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals: A call for Sri Lanka to seek similar privileges: Kananathan

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced an expansion of its visa-on-arrival programme for Indian nationals, a move that will make travel to the Gulf nation even more accessible for millions of Indian citizens. Starting February 13, 2025, Indian passport holders who possess valid visas, Green Cards , or residence permits from countries including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada are eligible for a visa-on-arrival at all UAE entry points. This development further strengthens the UAE’s position as a key global transit hub and a favored destination for Indian travelers, whether for tourism, business, or family visits.

A Strategic Expansion of UAE’s Visa Policy

This latest decision builds upon the UAE’s long-standing special visa arrangements with India, recognizing the close economic, cultural, and political ties between the two nations. By allowing a broader category of Indian travelers to receive visas upon arrival, the UAE is simplifying entry procedures, boosting tourism, and facilitating business engagements.

For Indian nationals, this means fewer bureaucratic hurdles and greater flexibility in travel plans. As the UAE continues to be a major transit point for global travelers, this initiative will likely encourage more Indians to choose UAE airports such as Dubai International and Abu Dhabi International for layovers and short visits.

A Case for Sri Lanka to Seek Similar Arrangements

While this policy is undoubtedly beneficial for Indian nationals, it also raises an important question: Should Sri Lankans have access to similar visa-on-arrival privileges when traveling to or transiting through the UAE.

Given Sri Lanka’s strong diplomatic and trade ties with the UAE, the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry and the Sri Lankan Embassy in the UAE should take proactive steps to negotiate a similar arrangement for Sri Lankan passport holders. Just like India, Sri Lanka has a significant number of its citizens living and working in the UAE, contributing to the country’s economy and strengthening bilateral ties. Furthermore, the UAE is a crucial transit hub for Sri Lankan travelers flying to Europe, North America, and other destinations.

The Need for Equal Travel Opportunities

Granting visa-on-arrival facilities to Sri Lankan nationals would ease travel restrictions, encourage tourism, and strengthen greater business collaborations between the two nations. It would also align with the UAE’s broader vision of strengthening ties with South Asian countries and making its visa policies more inclusive.

With India’s latest inclusion in this expanded programme, Sri Lanka should seize the opportunity to push for a similar agreement. The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry , through its diplomatic channels, must advocate for this policy change, ensuring that Sri Lankan travelers are not at a disadvantage compared to their regional counterparts.

The UAE’s decision to expand visa-on-arrival privileges for Indian nationals is a progressive move that underscores the country’s commitment to fostering international connectivity. However, this also presents an opportunity for Sri Lanka to engage with the UAE authorities and seek similar concessions for its citizens. The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry and the Sri Lankan Embassy in the UAE must take this matter up at the highest levels, ensuring that Sri Lankans traveling to or transiting through the UAE enjoy the same convenience and benefits as Indian nationals.

By securing such an agreement, Sri Lanka can enhance its diplomatic standing, support its expatriate community, and strengthen economic ties with one of the most influential countries in the Middle East.

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