Urgent Update: Changes to Indian Visa and Passport Services in UAE

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A significant administrative transition is currently occurring within the Visa and Passport consular infrastructure of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Indian Embassy in the UAE has formally announced that a temporary pause will be implemented for all passport, visa, and attestation services.

This suspension is required to facilitate a seamless handover of responsibilities to a newly appointed service provider. Residents and expatriates are advised to adjust their travel and documentation plans.

This will help accommodate the five-day gap in regular operations.

Details of the Operational Suspension for Visa and Passport Services

The current outsourced service providers, BLS International and SGIVS Global, are scheduled to cease operations. They will stop accepting all new applications at the close of business on Thursday, June 25, 2026.

Following this deadline, a transitional period has been initiated. This period will last from June 26 through June 30, 2026. During these five days, no routine appointments will be facilitated for the public.

This applies to all passport renewals, visa processing, and document attestation tasks.

This interval is considered essential to ensure that databases, logistics, and procedural workflows are transferred correctly. The transition involves moving data from the outgoing entities to the incoming partner, Al Hind Tours and Travel LLC.

By pausing regular services, the Indian Embassy aims to prevent discrepancies. Furthermore, it seeks to avoid potential backlogs during the migration of consular data. This also covers the physical relocation of service centers across the seven emirates.

Introduction of the New Service Provider

The selection of Al Hind Tours and Travel LLC follows a rigorous tendering and evaluation process. Indian authorities conducted this process to ensure high standards.

This change is intended to streamline the delivery of consular services. Moreover, it aims to improve overall accessibility for the Indian community residing in the UAE.

Starting from July 1, 2026, all new applications for passport documents, visa papers, and attestations must be processed through the new designated centers.

These centers will be operated by Al Hind Tours and Travel LLC. While specific details regarding new service charges and operating hours are forthcoming, the mission has emphasized efficiency.

The transition is specifically designed to maintain the high standard of service that applicants expect regarding their visa and passport applications.

Management of Emergency Situations

Although routine operations are slated for suspension, the well-being of the Indian diaspora remains a priority.

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have confirmed that emergency visa and passport services will continue. These will be provided directly by the mission staff throughout the transition period.

Individuals facing genuine emergencies are encouraged to seek direct assistance. This includes cases involving urgent medical needs or critical family matters. To facilitate this, dedicated support channels have been maintained.

Applicants in need of urgent intervention can contact the missions via the toll-free number 800 46342. Alternatively, they can engage through WhatsApp at +971 54 309 0571. Additionally, inquiries can be sent via email to [email protected].

Guidelines for Applicants and Future Preparations

Indian Embassy UAE: Crucial Visa and Passport Service Update

A significant administrative transition is occurring within the consular infrastructure of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Indian Embassy in the UAE has formally announced a temporary pause for all passport, visa, and attestation services. This suspension facilitates a seamless handover to a newly appointed service provider, Al Hind Tours and Travel LLC. Residents and expatriates are advised to adjust their travel plans and documentation submissions to accommodate this five-day operational gap.

Guidelines for Applicants During the Transition

To ensure a smooth experience during this administrative change, all individuals in the UAE should follow these important guidelines:

• Plan Ahead: If you require consular assistance, submit your applications well in advance.
• Observe the Cutoff: The current providers, BLS International and SGIVS Global, will stop accepting new applications after the close of business on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
• Defer Non-Urgent Tasks: If your requirements are not urgent, it is recommended to wait until the new online appointment portal is launched on July 1, 2026.
• Verify Official Sources: Rely exclusively on the official websites and verified social media channels of the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai.
• Avoid Misinformation: Do not use unofficial third-party agents or outdated booking links to prevent potential delays or complications with your visa or passport applications.
• Utilize Emergency Channels: If you have a genuine emergency—such as urgent medical needs or critical family matters—contact the missions directly via the toll-free number 800 46342, WhatsApp at +971 54 309 0571, or email at [email protected].

Conclusion

This transition marks a significant operational overhaul for the Indian Embassy as it shifts to a new service provider to better serve the Indian diaspora across the UAE.

While routine passport and visa services will be unavailable from June 26 to June 30, 2026, the mission remains committed to supporting citizens through emergency channels.

By staying informed through official updates and planning around the five-day suspension, Visa applicants can ensure that their transition to the new service centers is managed successfully and without unnecessary disruption.