The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai have prolonged the suspension of regular passport, visa and attestation appointments until 1 July 2026, citing ‘administrative reasons’ linked to the hand-over of outsourced services to Alhind Tours & Travel. Emergency cases continue to be handled via dedicated hotlines and WhatsApp numbers. The five-day blackout, originally scheduled for 26–30 June, allows previous providers BLS International and SGIVS to wind down operations and transfer biometric equipment and data to the new contractor. Indian expatriates—the UAE hosts the world’s largest Indian diaspora—have been advised to delay non-urgent renewals or use the embassy’s limited-quota emergency certificates. Travel managers moving staff between Gulf projects warn that the gap could push some workers beyond the six-month passport-validity threshold required for re-entry to the UAE, necessitating route changes via third-country consulates. Companies should audit assignees’ document expiry dates and arrange contingency travel insurance covering overstay penalties. The missions said further details on appointment availability from 2 July will be “communicated in due course”. Industry observers expect a short-term backlog once slots reopen and recommend early online booking for those holding UAE residence visas that expire this year.
Source: Gulf News
