🛫

Pre-Flight Checklist: Documents & Packing (2)

1. The "Golden" Documents (Carry in Hand Baggage)

Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. (Check the expiry date now!).
Visa Copy (Color Print):
  • Rule: Digital copies on phones are not always accepted at Indian immigration or by airlines.
  • Action: Carry 2 Color Printouts.
Confirmed Return Ticket: You must have a booked return flight within your visa validity period. One-way tickets are only allowed for Residence Visa holders.
Travel Insurance (Hard Copy):
  • Why: Medical costs in Dubai are astronomical. If you need a doctor, it can cost 500 AED just for a consultation.
  • Status: Mandatory for Visa-on-Arrival and strongly recommended for all others.
Accommodation Proof:
  • If Hotel: Printed Booking Confirmation.
  • If staying with Family/Friends: You need their Name, Address, Phone Number, and a copy of their Emirates ID (Soft copy on phone is okay, but print is safer).

2. The "3,000 AED" Cash Rule (Strictly Enforced)

Many Indians are being questioned about this at Indian airports before boarding.
The Rule: You must show proof of funds to sustain your stay.
The Amount: A minimum of 3,000 AED (approx. ₹68,000 - ₹70,000 INR) per person.
How to Carry:
  • Cash: At least 500-1000 AED in cash for immediate expenses (Taxi/SIM).
  • Balance: Can be on a Forex Card (Niyo, BookMyForex) or International Credit Card.
  • Warning: Do not rely solely on "Google Pay" or Indian UPI apps; they do not count as proof of funds.

3. "OK to Board" (Only for Specific Cases)

Most tourists do not need this anymore, but check your passport to be safe.
Do I need it?
  • NO: If you have a standard Tourist/Business E-Visa AND a standard ECNR Passport. (You can go directly to the airport).
  • YES: If you have an ECR Passport (Check the last page of your passport for "Emigration Check Required").
  • YES: If you are travelling on a Work/Labour Visa.
Action: If you fall into the "YES" category, send your visa copy to the airline 48 hours before flying. If you are "NO," ignore this step!

4. The Medicine Bag (The "Don't Get Arrested" List)

UAE has zero tolerance for banned substances.
Prescriptions: Every single pill must have a doctor's prescription (in English) stamped and signed.
Prohibited List (Strictly Banned):
  • Tramadol (Painkiller)
  • Codeine (often in cough syrups)
  • Xanax / Valium (Anxiety meds)
  • If you absolutely need these: You must apply for approval on the MoHAP website (Ministry of Health) before flying.
General Meds: Paracetamol, Pantocid, and basic antibiotics are fine with a prescription.

5. Luggage Restrictions (Customs)

No E-Cigarettes/Vapes: Technically illegal to sell in UAE, and often confiscated at customs if found in bulk.
Power Banks: Must be in Hand Luggage only. If put in check-in, your bag will be opened and delayed.
Food: Home-cooked food is generally allowed if dry and packed well. Avoid fresh seeds or raw plants.

💡 TVT Pro-Tip:

"At the Indian airport (Ahmedabad/Mumbai), the airline staff might ask: 'Show me your return ticket and funds.' Be confident. Show them the cash/Forex card and the printed ticket. If you look nervous or don't have these, they have the right to deny boarding."