Indian Missions in UAE Launch Online Passport Appointment

Synopsis: Indian missions in the UAE introduce an online appointment system for passport, visa, and attestation services to streamline applications during the transition to a new outsourced service provider.

Indian diplomatic missions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have introduced a new online appointment system for passport, visa, and attestation services, aiming to streamline consular operations and reduce long waiting times during the ongoing transition to a new outsourced service provider. The initiative is expected to improve service delivery for the large Indian expatriate community in the UAE.

The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai announced that applicants can now book appointments online before visiting either mission. The digital system has been introduced to better manage visitor flow, minimise overcrowding, and ensure more efficient processing of consular services.

The new arrangement comes as Indian missions temporarily provide passport, visa, and attestation services directly from their premises following delays in the rollout of operations by the new outsourced agency, Alhind Tours and Travels LLC. The transition was affected by legal proceedings related to the tender process, prompting the missions to implement interim measures to ensure continuity of essential services.

Also Read: PM Modi to Begin First Official Visit to New Zealand Next Week

Applicants with confirmed appointments will be allowed to enter the embassy or consulate shortly before their scheduled time. Limited walk-in services will continue during designated hours, with priority given to emergency cases, including newborn passport applications and Emergency Certificates. Officials have advised applicants to carry completed forms, supporting documents, and the applicable fees to avoid delays.

Separate entry points have also been designated for different categories of services to improve crowd management. Authorities said the existing helpline and support channels will remain operational throughout the transition to assist applicants and respond to queries.

The appointment-based system follows recent changes to India's consular service framework in the UAE, including the appointment of Alhind Tours and Travels as the new outsourced provider and the establishment of new Indian Consular Application Centres across the country. These measures are intended to modernise service delivery and enhance accessibility for Indian nationals residing in all seven emirates.

The introduction of the online booking platform is expected to make passport, visa, and attestation services more organised and efficient while ensuring uninterrupted access to essential consular assistance during the transition period.