UAE Sees 20% Surge in Schengen Visa Applications in Q2 2024

The UAE has witnessed a 20% year-over-year (YoY) increase in Schengen visa applications from its residents during the second quarter (Q2) 2024, according to new data from The Visa Services, a Dubai-based visa services expert.

This increase highlights Europe's appeal as a travel destination, with Europe accounting for 65% of all travel requests processed by the company.

The US follows with 25%, while Asia-Pacific countries like Singapore, Australia, and China make up 15% of the travel requests. The peak travel season is driven by favorable European weather and major events such as EURO 2024, the Paris Olympics, and Taylor Swift's Eras Tour. Popular European destinations include Spain, Greece, Germany, Italy, France, Portugal, and Switzerland.

"The UAE has a very diverse population, and most nationalities require visas to enter Schengen countries (except for Emiratis) and the USA," explained Anastasia Yanchenko, Commercial Director of The Visa Services. The data also revealed that the primary applicants for Schengen visas are Russians, making up 35% of the total, followed by Indians at 23%, Filipinos at 16%, Egyptians at 7%, Jordanians at 6%, and South Africans. The clientele mainly consists of families, accounting for 58%, and individuals seeking visas.

While most Schengen visas are processed within 15 days, some countries may take up to 45 days. In 2023, the rejection rate for Schengen visas for UAE residents was 22.44%, while the approval rate stood at 77.56%.
Schengen visas typically span around six months, but they can vary based on documents, previous travel history, employment, residence, and financial stability.