UAE Expats: Unlocking Global Travel Despite Visa Hurdles

Staff Report

If you are one of the UAE Expats, it may be your dream to explore the world due to passport limitations. There have been lengthy visa processes, high fees, and frequent rejections. However, if you have made a proper research and planning, international travel may be in your reach to explore new destinations.

Meet Ankitha Rajendaran – A Travel Inspiration

Ankitha Rajendaran, is a Dubai-based travel blogger, and travelled around 150 countries. She has Indian passport and shares tips and tricks to counter visa challenges. By following her blog and social media account, you can explore new destinations.

Visa-Friendly Destinations for UAE Expats

Even if you have a restricted passport, there are many places in the world you can explore. Here are some of the best options you can follow.

Visa-Free Countries

• Bhutan – No visa required for Indian passport holders. Stay up to 14 days in this beautiful Himalayan country.
• Nepal – Indian travelers can enter visa-free and stay indefinitely.
• Mauritius – Enjoy a 90-day visa-free stay with stunning beaches and diverse culture.
• Malaysia – Indian passport holders can stay visa-free for 30 days with a Digital Arrival Card.
• Thailand – Indian citizens can visit for up to 60 days without a visa.

Visa-on-Arrival Destinations

• Kenya – With Indian and Pakistani passport, you can get on arrival visa for a safari adventure.
• Tanzania – If you are wildlife lovers, you can get visa-on-arrival.
• Mongolia – It offers visa-on-arrival to Indian passport holders.
• Angola – On arrival visa available for Indian travelers.

E-Visa Destinations

• Japan – E-visa available for UAE residents
• Kyrgyzstan – You can get visa through online application.
• Laos – It offers an easy e-visa.
• Zambia – Safari lovers can avail of e-visa options.

Overcoming Visa Challenges

If you have weak passports, here are a few challenges you will have to face.

• Limited visa-free access
• Long processing times
• High rejection rates

How to Increase Your Chances of Visa Approval

1. Apply Early – Submit visa application well in advance.
2. Complete Your Documents – Up to date and accurate papers.
3. Show Strong Ties to UAE – Provide employment letters, rental agreements, or family connections.
4. Use Previous Travel History – With valid US, UK, or Schengen visas, you can get speedy approvals.
5. Plan Your First Trip to an Easy Country – Start your travel with visa-friendly places to make strong travel history.

Real Stories from UAE Expats

Carine El Natour (Lebanese Passport Holder)

Carine prefers visa-free or e-visa countries and is dependent on Emirates’ website and travel agencies. These sources can simplify visa application process.

Amna Ahmed (Pakistani Passport Holder)

Amna struggles has Pakistani passport and recommends to apply visas for multiple-entry visas. She also prefers e-visas to grab travel opportunities.

Ankitha’s Travel Tips

1. Research Extensively – Check official embassy websites for the latest visa rules.
2. Use Reliable Travel Resources – Follow travel bloggers, forums, and airline websites.
3. Stay Positive – Don’t let visa rejections stop you; keep applying and planning.
4. Join Travel Communities – Connect with fellow travelers who share tips and experiences.

Summing Up

No doubt, traveling is a big challenge with a restricted passport. But you can make it possible with proper strategy and planning to explore the new destinations.