UAE applications for Schengen Visa...

Rise attributed to key music and sporting events in Europe

New data from The Visa Services, a Dubai-based visa consultancy, has recorded a 20% year-on-year increase in Schengen visa applications from foreign residents in the UAE during Q2 2024.

The rise in applications coincides with Europe's peak travel season as well as international events including Euro 2024 in Germany, the Paris Olympic Games and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour across multiple destinations in Europe.

“The UAE has a very diverse population, and most nationalities require visas to enter Schengen countries (except for Emiratis) and the USA,” said Anastasia Yanchenko, Commercial Director of The Visa Services.

According to the data, the majority of applicants were Russians (35%), followed by Indians (23%), Filipinos (16%), Egyptians (7%), Jordanians (6%), and South Africans. Families made up 58% of the clientele.

In 2023, the rejection rate for Schengen visas for UAE residents was 22.44%. Most visas issued were for single-entry travel (74%), while the rest where for three- to six-month multiple entry visas.

“In 2024, the trend has shifted, with 45% of visas issued for three-to-six months, 30% exceeding a year, and 25% for travel only. This year, the most popular visa purposes are travel (70%), business (20%), study (7%), and medical (3%),” added Yanchenko.

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