Indian nationals in the UAE can now book appointments online for passport, visa and verification services as Indian diplomatic missions have launched a new appointment system to reduce long queues during the ongoing transition to outsourced consular services.According to a report in Khaleej Times, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have started accepting appointments through a dedicated online portal while continuing to offer limited walk-in services.
Online booking portal launched
Applicants can now schedule appointments for passport, visa and verification services through the newly launched booking portal as Indian missions look to streamline access to consular services.The move comes after both the missions started providing essential services directly from July 1 following disruption in the transition to the new outsourcing agency.
Why the change?
The temporary arrangement follows the expiry of the contract with the previous service provider BLS. A new contract was awarded to Alhind Tours & Travels LLC after the tender process, but the handover has been delayed due to legal proceedings in the Delhi High Court.According to reports, the unsuccessful bidders challenged the award process alleging irregularities in the technical evaluation, delay in the implementation of the new integrated Indian consular application centres.With restrictions on change, embassies and consulates are handling passport, visa and verification services directly on a limited basis.
Walk-in services will continue with revised timings
Missions have clarified that walk-in applicants will continue to be accommodated, although the timings have now been limited.Limited walk-in services will be available at both the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai from 9am to 11am.Emergency cases, including newborn documents and emergency certificates, will be given priority, while other applicants are encouraged to book appointments in advance to avoid long waiting periods.Applicants with confirmed appointments will be allowed entry 15 minutes before their scheduled slot. To reduce overcrowding, only applicants will be allowed inside the premises, except in the case of minor applicants, where both the parents are required to be present.
Entry point for applicants
The Embassy has also issued revised entry instructions. In Abu Dhabi, applicants seeking consular, passport and visa (CPV) services should enter through the main gate on Al Saffart Street.Queries relating to document delivery and other consular matters will be dealt with in the Consular Wing, Unit No. 101, 1st Floor, Guardian Tower (Technip Building), Al Ishirah Street.In Dubai, passport and visa applicants should enter through Gate No. 2 of the Consulate General of India, while those seeking verification services should use Gate No. 1. The same gate will also handle document delivery, labor related issues and queries regarding submitted applications.
Applicants are advised to carry complete documents
The Mission has urged applicants to reach with fully filled application forms and all necessary supporting documents to ensure speedy processing.Passport applicants have also been advised to ensure that the photograph, signature or thumb impression is uploaded correctly on a clear white background while filling the online application.Another important tip is that consular fees will only be accepted in cash, and applicants are encouraged to carry the exact amount. The Mission also reminded the applicants that the revised passport fee structure has come into effect from July 1, 2026.
Helpline remains unchanged
For assistance, applicants can contact the Indian Mission through the existing toll-free helpline 800 46342 (800 INDIA), WhatsApp +971 54 309 0571, or email at pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in.The UAE is home to an estimated 4.5 million Indian expatriates, making it one of the largest overseas Indian communities. Indian missions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai process the highest volume of passport and consular applications globally.