To ensure that their visa appointments are scheduled well in advance, residents of the UAE planning to travel to Schengen countries for Eid Al Fitr 2024 and summer holidays should make appointments well in advance.
As we approach the holiday season, we expect a surge in demand for travel, so we continue to encourage applicants to book their appointments well in advance to avoid any delays," Monaz Billimoria, regional head for VFS Global, the largest visa outsourcing and technology service provider for governments and diplomatic missions in the world.
For the purpose of visa processing, VFS Global receives visa applications on behalf of several governments in the UAE and other countries.
During Eid Al Fitr in April 2024, UAE residents will enjoy six-day holidays. In summer, the schools are closed for a couple of months, allowing residents to spend time with families and friends in cooler climes. Due to strong demand for travel in the post-pandemic period, UAE residents and businessmen found it difficult to get a Schengen visa appointment in the past couple of years.
European travel to the UAE peaks during the summer when many nationals and expatriates spend time there. UAE nationals enjoy visa-free travel to Schengen countries for stays up to 90 days, but many expats must apply for visas.
Obtain a visa six months in advance of your trip
In the UAE, residents can apply for entry permits for the 27 member countries up to 180 days in advance of their intended travel date, allowing them enough time to plan their trips.
"Europe remains a high-demand destination from the UAE, so we advise travelers to book their appointments early to avoid delays," Billimoria said.
Applicants should exercise caution when dealing with third-party entities posing as VFS Global or embassy/consulate personnel.
Billimoria clarified that the company has no control over appointment availability or visa processing timelines, as these are determined by the clients.
Schengen visas will increase by 25%
As outbound business and leisure travel continue to grow exponentially, UAE visa applications to Schengen countries have grown at a double-digit rate in 2023, as well as at the pre-pandemic level.
According to Billimoria, "the demand for Schengen visas from the UAE has grown by 25 percent versus 2022 and 18 percent over 2019, reflecting the continued high demand for European travel."
Billimoria, however, did not reveal the names of the countries experiencing higher visa demand.