A major transformation is coming for Indian expatriates in the Gulf. Alhind Group will officially assume responsibility for all outsourced Indian passport, visa, and consular services across the United Arab Emirates starting July 1, 2026.
The agreement, signed on May 18, 2026, at the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi, marks one of the biggest service transitions affecting Indian citizens abroad — impacting more than 4.3 million Indian residents across the Emirates.
This move concludes a 15-year operational era previously managed by BLS International, after the Ministry of External Affairs barred the company from participating in new tenders following service complaints and legal disputes.
Why This Transition Matters
The overhaul aims to deliver faster processing, reduced service charges, and improved digital infrastructure for consular services.
Key Highlights
- New operator for passport & visa outsourcing
- Lower standardized service fee
- Expanded service network across all emirates
- Digitized application workflow
- Reduced travel distance for applicants
For Indian expats, this represents the largest modernization of consular services in the UAE in over a decade.
Lower Service Fees Announced
One of the biggest benefits is the unified service charge introduced by Alhind.
New Service Fee:
👉 Dh19 per transaction
This fee includes:
- Biometric photo capture
- Document photocopying
- Basic application processing support
Compared with previous outsourcing structures, this is expected to significantly reduce overall applicant expenses.
Services Covered Under the New Contract
Alhind centers will process nearly all Indian consular submissions:
- Indian Passport applications & renewals
- Indian Visa services
- Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cards
- Police Clearance Certificates (PCC)
- Surrender Certificates
- Document Attestation services
Applicants will notice similar application procedures, but backend systems are being upgraded for faster turnaround times.
Digital Upgrade & Faster Processing
A major pillar of the transition is heavy digitization.
What Will Change
- Modernized online appointment portals
- Faster backend verification systems
- Reduced manual processing delays
- Streamlined booking and tracking system
Officials indicate that the goal is to create a paper-light, appointment-based workflow to reduce crowding at service centers.
Locations of the 16 New Service Centers
To improve accessibility, the new network spans all seven emirates.
Abu Dhabi
- Al Khalidiya
- Al Reem Island
- Musaffah
- Madinat Zayed
- Ghayathi
- Al Ain
Dubai
- Bur Dubai
- Dubai Investment Park (DIP)
Sharjah
- Al Majaz
- Rolla
Other Emirates
- Ajman – Al Jurf
- Fujairah – Fujairah City
- Ras Al Khaimah – RAK City
- Umm Al Quwain – UAQ City
- East Coast – Khor Fakkan (Corniche), Kalba
This expanded distribution significantly reduces long-distance travel for applicants outside major metro hubs.
Job Opportunities for Residents
To operationalize the network, Alhind is launching a hiring drive:
- 250–350 new staff positions
- Submission officers
- Operations executives
- Front desk & customer service personnel
This creates fresh employment opportunities within UAE’s travel and administrative services sector.
Important Advice for Applicants (June–July Transition)
If your passport or visa expires soon, authorities strongly recommend:
- Complete submissions before June 30, 2026
- Expect minor service adjustments during migration
- Monitor the official Alhind portal for updated addresses and timings
Early applications will help avoid disruption during the system switch.
What This Means for Indian Expats
The transition represents a strategic modernization effort aimed at:
- Enhancing service quality
- Improving transparency
- Lowering costs
- Expanding accessibility
- Strengthening India–UAE diaspora services
With one of the world’s largest Indian communities residing in the UAE, the move is expected to redefine overseas consular service standards.
FAQs — Alhind UAE Passport & Visa Services
When will Alhind officially start operations?
Services begin July 1, 2026 across all emirates.
Will application procedures change?
The process remains largely similar, but digital systems and booking platforms will improve efficiency.
What is the new service fee?
A unified Dh19 per transaction service charge.
Which services are included?
Passports, visas, OCI cards, PCC, surrender certificates, and document attestation.
Should I apply before July 2026?
Yes. If your document expires soon, submit before the transition to avoid delays.
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