Attention Indian expats; Passport and visa services now handled by Alhind

ABU DHABI: The Indian Embassy in the UAE has entrusted Alhind Tours & Travels as its new service provider for consular, passport, visa, and attestation services, with effect from July 22. Applicants can book appointments through the consularsevainuae.com.

Appointment slots are available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, while services will be provided from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Visitors will be allowed to enter the service centre only 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment. A service fee of 19 dirhams will be charged in addition to the fees prescribed by the Government of India.

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi awarded the contract to Alhind in April this year, following the Indian Supreme Court's approval allowing Indian missions in the UAE, Kuwait, Singapore, and Canberra to temporarily engage alternative service providers after previous contracts were cancelled. However, the embassy has not clarified whether Alhind's appointment is temporary or permanent. Alhind presently operates 16 offices across the UAE, making passport and consular services more accessible for Indian expatriates.