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The Indian Eye
TRAVEL & TOURISM AUGUST 21, 2026 48

Abu Dhabi Offers Free Entry Odisha Seeks

Visas to Indian Tourists UNESCO Heritage Tag
for Puri Rath Yatra

ndian travellers planning a holi- disha has intensified its ef-
day in Abu Dhabi can now avail forts to secure UNESCO’s
Ithemselves of complimentary OIntangible Cultural Heritage
UAE entry visas under a new travel status for the world-renowned Puri
initiative launched by the Depart- Rath Yatra, with Chief Minister Mo-
ment of Culture and Tourism – Abu han Charan Majhi urging the Centre
Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). The to support the state’s nomination for
programme will run from August one of India’s oldest and most cele-
through October 2026 and is aimed brated religious festivals.
at making travel to the emirate more The move is aimed at securing
accessible while attracting more visi- global recognition for the centu-
tors from India. ries-old chariot festival dedicated to
Under the initiative, eligible In- Lord Jagannath, which attracts mil-
dian passport holders who book qual- lions of devotees from across India
ifying Abu Dhabi holidays through and abroad every year.
participating travel trade partners The state government has re-
can receive a UAE entry visa without quested the Union Ministry of Cul-
paying the usual visa fee. The offer ture to facilitate the nomination
is linked to holiday bookings made process with UNESCO. Officials
through authorised partners, rather said recognition would not only ac-
than being a blanket visa waiver for Dhabi for short holidays. tions for Indian nationals. Separate knowledge the festival’s outstanding
all Indian tourists. Participating trav- Travellers interested in the offer visa-on-arrival provisions already cultural and spiritual significance
el partners will facilitate the com- will need to book their Abu Dhabi exist for eligible Indian passport but also strengthen conservation ef-
plimentary visa as part of the travel holiday through one of the partici- holders who meet specific condi- forts, documentation of rituals, and
booking process. pating travel partners during the pro- tions, including holding qualifying international promotion of Odisha’s
The initiative comes as Abu gramme period. The visa arrange- visas or residence permits from cer- rich heritage.
Dhabi seeks to strengthen its posi- ment and eligibility will be handled tain countries. The Shree Jagannatha Temple
tion as a preferred international hol- by the partner as part of the booking Travel experts, however, advise Administration (SJTA) is preparing
iday destination for Indian travellers. process, with travellers advised to tourists to verify the latest entry re- a comprehensive nomination dossier
India remains an important source check the specific terms and docu- quirements before departure, as in consultation with cultural experts,
market for the emirate, with the new mentation requirements before mak- UAE visa rules and eligibility con- temple servitors, and officials. The
programme designed to reduce one ing their reservations. ditions can vary. The Abu Dhabi proposal will be routed through the
of the additional costs associated The announcement also comes tourism authority also recommends Ministry of Culture, the nodal agen-
with international travel and encour- at a time when the UAE continues checking current visa guidance be- cy responsible for forwarding India’s
age more Indians to consider Abu to expand and streamline entry op- fore travelling. nominations to UNESCO.
Odisha’s pursuit of UNESCO
India’s Historic Forts Attract Heritage Travellers recognition began in 2022, when the
state initiated documentation of the
Rath Yatra’s unique traditions, ritu-
ndia’s centuries-old forts are wit- chapter of India’s history through alongside its Portuguese-era his- als, craftsmanship, and community
nessing renewed interest among its architecture, military significance tory, making it a favourite among participation. After renewed mo-
Idomestic and international trav- and cultural legacy. travellers seeking both heritage and mentum, the government has now
ellers, with heritage tourism con- Amer Fort is renowned for its scenic beauty. Jaisalmer Fort, often sought stronger coordination with
tinuing to gain momentum as visi- intricate Sheesh Mahal and sweeping called the “Golden Fort”, remains the Centre to advance the proposal.
tors seek destinations that combine views of Maota Lake, while Meh- one of the world’s few living forts, The annual Rath Yatra, regard-
history, architecture and immersive rangarh Fort dominates Jodhpur’s where residents, shops and temples ed as one of the world’s largest pub-
cultural experiences. From majestic skyline with expansive courtyards continue to thrive within its sand- lic religious processions, is known for
hilltop citadels in Rajasthan to coast- and museums showcasing royal arte- stone walls. its massive wooden chariots, elabo-
al strongholds in Goa, these monu- facts. Agra Fort, a UNESCO World With the best travel season ex- rate rituals, and the participation of
ments are increasingly featuring on Heritage Site, highlights Mughal ar- tending from October to March, devotees irrespective of caste, creed,
travel wish lists for 2026. chitectural excellence, whereas Chit- tourism experts advise visitors to al- or nationality. Heritage experts be-
Travel experts recommend icon- torgarh Fort symbolises Rajput cour- locate at least two to four hours for lieve that inscription on UNESCO’s
ic landmarks such as Amer Fort in age and sacrifice through its palaces, each fort to fully appreciate their Representative List of the Intangi-
Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodh- temples and victory towers. historical significance and architec- ble Cultural Heritage of Humanity
pur, Agra Fort in Uttar Pradesh, Further south, Golconda Fort tural grandeur. As interest in cultur- would enhance global visibility, en-
Chittorgarh Fort, Golconda Fort continues to fascinate visitors with al tourism continues to rise, India’s courage preservation of traditional
in Hyderabad, Aguada Fort in Goa its ingenious acoustics and im- forts remain enduring symbols of the knowledge, and further boost cultur-
and Jaisalmer Fort as among the pressive fortifications. On India’s nation’s rich and diverse heritage, al tourism in Odisha while safeguard-
country’s most rewarding heritage western coast, Aguada Fort of- offering travellers a journey through ing the festival’s living traditions for
experiences. Each reflects a distinct fers panoramic Arabian Sea views centuries of royal history. future generations.

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