Business News

Indian travelers eyeing Dubai as their destination are facing an unprecedented surge in visa rejections due to stricter documentation requirements for tourist visas. Travel agents are reporting significant financial losses for applicants, as rejections affect not only visa fees but also non-refundable flight tickets and hotel bookings.Dubai is extremely strict, and a rejection can lead to lifelong travel complications. “Earlier, almost 99% of Dubai visa applications were approved. Now, we are experiencing rejections even for well-prepared travelers,” Rishikesh Pujari, director of Vihar Travels told TOI, highlighted the dramatic change in approval rates. He recounted a case where a family of four, despite submitting all required documents, had their application rejected, upending their travel plans. Similarly, a group of 35 faced financial losses when a single member's visa was denied.The new regulations require applicants to provide confirmed hotel bookings, return tickets, and, in cases of staying with relatives, additional documents such as proof of accommodation. "In just one week, I have seen nearly eight rejections," Pujari added.Even meticulously prepared applications are being denied and rejection rates have increased from 1-2% to 5-6% daily. “Two of our passengers planning to stay with relatives had their applications rejected despite submitting all the necessary documents. They lost nearly Rs 14,000 on visa fees and Rs 20,000 on ticket cancellations,” Vijay Thakkar, director of Hasmukh Travels, said.“A husband and wife applied for Dubai visas, and while the husband’s visa was approved, the wife’s was rejected despite having identical documentation. Their non-refundable tickets added to the financial burden,” Nikhil Kumar, director of Passio Travels Pvt Ltd, explained.Travelers have expressed frustration over the situation. A Pune resident shared how his Rs 50,000 non-refundable flight booking was wasted after his and his brother's visas were rejected, despite adhering to the new requirements.Nilesh Bhansali, president of the Travel Agents Association of Pune, cautioned against using dummy tickets or fabricated documents. “,” he said.As stricter visa norms continue to impact travelers, agents recommend thorough preparation and adherence to official requirements to avoid rejection and financial losses.108650231