For many Indians living in the UAE, renewing a passport or handling paperwork at consular centres has often meant long queues, limited appointments, and multiple visits. That could soon change.
From July 1, Alhind Group will officially begin handling Indian consular support services in the UAE, taking over operations from BLS after more than 10 years. The company says it is preparing to launch 16 centres across the country to make the process quicker and far less stressful for residents.
With thousands of applications processed daily in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the move is expected to bring major relief to the UAE’s Indian community.
New Centres Planned Across All Emirates
Alhind Group confirmed that the new centres will be spread across all emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Kalba and Khorfakkan. Final approvals from the Indian Embassy are already in place, and the company expects all branches to be ready by mid-June before services officially begin in July.
One of the largest facilities will open in Bur Dubai, an area already familiar to many residents visiting typing centres, visa offices and consular service providers. The new branch will cover around 12,000 square feet and include more than 45 counters to help reduce waiting times.
Anyone who has stood in crowded queues in Bur Dubai during peak hours knows how busy these centres can get, especially during holiday seasons and school breaks. The additional counters and larger setup are expected to make a noticeable difference.
Easier Appointments and Faster Service
According to Alhind officials, the focus is on making appointments easier to secure and cutting down the extra costs residents often pay when trying to get urgent slots.
The centres will handle passport renewals, visa applications, attestation services and other documentation support under one roof. Dedicated counters for Emiratis applying for Indian visas will also be available, with Arabic-speaking staff assisting visitors.
Families with newborn babies may also find the process simpler. Parents applying for a first passport for their newborn will be allowed to walk into the centres without booking appointments in advance, following embassy guidelines.
Passport Renewal From Home Could Soon Launch
One update that has caught attention is Alhind’s plan to test home-based passport renewal services in the UAE.
The company says it is currently trialling technology that would allow applicants to upload documents online while trained staff visit homes to collect biometrics or any additional paperwork if needed.
If introduced publicly, the system could become one of the most convenient services available for Indian expats in the UAE, especially for elderly residents, busy professionals and families with children.
In cities where traffic and parking can easily turn a quick errand into a half-day task, the idea of completing passport formalities from home will likely appeal to many residents.
More Than 400 Staff Hired Ahead of Launch
To prepare for the transition, Alhind has already hired more than 400 consular staff members across the UAE.
The company also says it plans to keep service charges affordable. Earlier comments from Alhind Chairman Mohammed Haris T stated that the company would charge only AED 19 above the embassy-approved fees, with services like photography and photocopying included within that amount.
For residents used to paying additional fees at multiple counters, this bundled approach could help simplify the overall process.
A Big Change for the UAE’s Indian Community
The launch of 16 new centres comes at a time when demand for passport and documentation services continues to grow across the UAE.
From workers renewing passports to families applying for visas and attestation services, these centres handle essential paperwork that residents rely on every day. With larger branches, more staff and possible at-home renewals on the horizon, many expats will be hoping the new system finally makes the process smoother.
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