Important Notice for Indians in the UAE: Temporary Changes to Passport and Consular Services

The Indian Embassy has issued an important announcement affecting the Indian community in the UAE, including expatriate Malayalis. Temporary changes to the procedures for passport, visa, attestation, and other consular services at the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have come into effect from July 2. The Embassy announced the new arrangements through an official press release.

Temporary Shift from Outsourced Services

Until now, consular services were being provided through outsourcing agencies such as BLS International and SGIVS Global. However, with the expiry of their contracts and the transition to the new service provider, Alhind Tours & Travels, the Embassy and the Consulate will temporarily provide limited consular services directly.

Walk-in System Introduced; No Appointments

Under the new arrangement, advance appointments will not be available. Instead, applicants must visit the Embassy or Consulate in person and obtain a token under a walk-in system.

Applications will be accepted on a First Come, First Served basis. Walk-in services will be available only between 9:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at both the Abu Dhabi Embassy and the Dubai Consulate.

Applicants Must Bring Complete Documents

Applicants are required to submit a fully completed application form along with all necessary supporting documents. Applications will be accepted only after the prescribed fee has been paid.

To avoid overcrowding, only the applicant will be allowed inside the premises. However, parents accompanying applications for minor children will be permitted entry.

Cash Payments Only

As part of the temporary arrangement, consular service fees will be accepted only in cash. Online payments and debit/credit cards will not be accepted until further notice.

Applicants are therefore advised to carry the exact amount required for their respective services. The same revised fee structure will also apply at the new Indian Consular Application Centres once they become operational.

Official Contact Channels Remain Active

For assistance or emergency enquiries, applicants may continue to use the Embassy’s official communication channels. They can contact the toll-free number 800 46342, WhatsApp at +971 54 309 0571, or email pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in.

Old Service Centres Closed; Follow Official Updates Only

The previous agency-operated service centres in Abu Dhabi and Dubai have been closed. The temporary arrangement will remain in place until Alhind Tours & Travels completes the setup of its operations.

The Embassy said that the official date for the launch of the new agency’s services will be announced later. It also urged the Indian community not to rely on rumours or misinformation circulating on social media or other unofficial sources, and to follow only updates issued through the official channels of the Embassy and the Consulate. Officials added that every effort is being made to minimise inconvenience caused by the temporary changes.