As the UAE gears up for Eid Al Fitr 2024 and the subsequent summer holidays, residents planning to travel to Schengen countries are being strongly advised to proactively schedule their visa appointments. Recognizing the anticipated surge in demand during the holiday season, it is important to book appointments well in advance to mitigate potential delays.
With UAE residents enjoying a six-day break during Eid Al Fitr in April 2024 and a lengthy summer vacation with schools closed for several months, families are eager to spend quality time in cooler climes. The challenge of securing visa appointments to Schengen countries has been prominent in recent years, especially due to the limited availability of slots amidst heightened post-pandemic travel demand.
The summer months witness a peak in travel from the UAE to Europe, with nationals and expatriate residents choosing the continent as their preferred destination. While UAE nationals benefit from visa-free travel to Schengen countries for short stays, expatriate residents must go through the visa application process.
In 2023, visa applications from the UAE to Schengen countries surged at a double-digit rate compared to the previous year, reaching pre-pandemic levels. This spike in demand reflects the continuous growth of outbound business and leisure travel from the UAE. The statistics reveal a notable 25 percent increase in Schengen visa applications in 2023 compared to 2022, along with an 18 percent rise over 2019, highlighting the sustained high demand for European travel.
In light of these trends, The Visa Guy encourages UAE residents to plan their Schengen visa applications carefully, ensuring a smooth and timely process for those looking forward to exploring the diverse offerings of Europe during the upcoming holiday season.
