Foreigners in UAE Now Enjoy Reduced Fares and Faster Schengen Visa Processing Times
According to Gulf News, the recent winter travel season saw a surge in UAE and GCC residents heading to European holiday destinations during the Christmas and New Year holidays, AtoZSerwisPlus.com reports.
Passport holders of the United Arab Emirates are exempted from visa requirements, but that does not apply to foreigners who live in the country, as they have to apply for a visa in order to travel to Schengen countries.
However, Schengen visa appointments from October to the end of December would take up to one or two months to be processed, which often discouraged travellers.
Now, European embassies in the UAE have opened up booking slots, and visas can be processed in less than two weeks, which further enables these travellers to make plans to visit Europe, as they have already expressed interest.
Authorities Recommend Early Booking
Despite the improved visa processing times, Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head at VFS Global, suggests that UAE residents should book their visa processing appointments well in advance to avoid potential delays, especially during busy travel seasons.
The Regional Head at VFS Global reported a 12 per cent growth in visa applications in 2023 compared to 2019. Between 2021-23, there was an exponential 145 per cent increase in visa applications.
In addition, Kristi Gole, Executive Vice-President of Strategy at GHA, noted that Europe remains the top choice for UAE travellers in 2024, despite a 22 per cent increase in travel expenses. Travellers are willing to pay premium prices for the best experiences, and the optimism for a strong year in 2024 prevails.
On average, according to World Trips, travellers spent €2,602 during their European travels last year compared to €2,326 in 2022.
Airfares Take a Plunge While Airlines Show Strong Competitive Indicators
In addition to the streamlined visa process, airfares to various European cities have dropped to under €276. Spain, Switzerland, Italy, France, and Germany are the main destinations for UAE travellers in April. Last year alone, travel demand to Europe surged by 40-50 per cent, even surpassing 2019 levels.
Daniel Rosado, Director of the Spanish Tourism Office in Abu Dhabi, pointed out the growth in demand.
On the other hand, airlines have become more competitive for main routes. For example, the economy fares for the Dubai-Paris route, scheduled between January 10 and January 24, vary from €131 by Wizz Air and €248 (Emirates). In December, those cost around €414.
For the Employer
Are you looking to Hire? Let us help you find the perfect candidates!
Step 1: Fill out the employer's questionnaire. Please provide us with the necessary details about your job requirements and company. We'll use this information to customise our services for you. Fill in the form.
Step 2: Choose the best offer. Once we receive your completed questionnaire, we'll prepare a tailored proposal for recruitment, employee leasing, or outsourcing services.
Step 3: Welcome your new employee. We'll utilise our extensive network and resources to find the ideal candidate for your business. Please don't worry; we'll ensure favourable conditions for you and the employee.
Take advantage of exceptional talent for your company. Complete the employer's questionnaire today, and let us handle your hiring needs.
How can AtoZ Serwis Plus assist you?
AtoZ Serwis Plus will provide the services listed below to get a European Country work visa:
- Counselling: Get AtoZ Serwis Plus’ free counselling services.
- Job services: Avail of AtoZ Serwis Plus’ job search services to find jobs in European Country
- Reviewing requirements: AtoZ Serwis Plus reviews all your European Country work visa requirements.
- Application process: We also help in completing your application process
- Requirements checklist: AtoZ Serwis Plus also helps you in arranging the requirements for a European Country work visa
- Complete visa application support
- Assistance with collecting supporting documentation
- Visa Interview Preparation – if required
- Updates and follow-up with the Consulate
Willing to work in a European Country? Talk to AtoZ Serwis Plus, Europe’s no. 1 overseas immigration consultant.
Would you like some advice? So that you know, the information I've included here is for you to review. You'll always need to consult with your legal and tax advisor(s) and follow their guidance. AtoZ Serwis Plus cannot assist with legal or tax matters. The information presented is not specific to any particular company or workforce nor reflects how AtoZ Serwis Plus products are distributed in any jurisdiction. Instead, it is general. AtoZ Serwis Plus makes no representations or warranties regarding this information's accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. It shall not be liable for any losses from using or relying on it. It is your responsibility to exercise caution when using this information.
Disclaimer: atozserwisplus.com is a FREE visa database and marketplace for immigration experts. This page's content does not provide legal advice. Before applying, kindly consult an expert.
