According to The Visa Services, Europe has enjoyed a 20% YoY increase in Schengen visa applications from UAE travellers in the last quarter, capturing a 65% share of all travel requests processed by the company. The United States follows at 25%, with Asia-Pacific countries accounting for 15%.

The surge in numbers to Europe is largely driven by pleasant weather and major events including the EURO 2024, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and now, the Paris Olympics. According to The Visa Services’ data, Schengen visa requests typically rise during the warmer months from June to September when travellers seek to combine vacations with events. Countries popular among The Visa Services’ clients 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. “Our data indicates that applicants during this period were Russians (35%), followed by Indians (23%), Filipinos (16%), Egyptians (7%), Jordanians (6%), and South Africans. We cater to a diverse clientele, including families (58%) and individuals seeking our services for themselves or their families.”

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 was 77.56%. Various factors affecting approval times for Schengen visas include documentation, previous travel history inclduing to Schengen countries, job and salary, current place of residence and financial stability among others.

“In 2023, most visas issued were for single-entry travel only (74%), with some for 3-6 months multiple entry (21%),” added Yanchenko. “In 2024, the trend has shifted, with 45% of visas issued for 3-6 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%).”