The UAE is set to host the 17th ACC Asia Cup in the T20 format from September 9 to 28. The highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan match will take place on Sunday, September 14, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This match is generating significant excitement throughout South Asia, with many fans from India and Pakistan planning to attend.
Here’s a comprehensive guide covering visas, flights, accommodations, weather, and transport.
Visa Requirements
For Indian Travelers
Indian nationals traveling to Dubai for the match must obtain a UAE tourist visa unless they have a valid US, UK, or EU visa that qualifies for a visa on arrival. As of February 13, 2025, the UAE has expanded this policy to include Indian passport holders with valid visas or residence permits from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
30-day single-entry visa: Approximately ₹7,800
60-day visa: ₹13,000–₹13,500
Multiple-entry (30-day): ₹17,999
Visa on arrival: Dh100-Dh120 (~₹2,400-2,800) for 14 days, extendable another 14 days for Dh250
Visa applications can usually be submitted online through VFS Global or authorized travel agencies. Processing typically takes three to four working days, with express services available for an additional fee.
For Pakistani Nationals
Pakistani fans should verify entry requirements directly with the UAE embassy or official immigration sources before booking. Visa policies can change, so confirming eligibility in advance is crucial to avoid last-minute issues.
Weather Expectations
Dubai in September is hot and humid, with daytime temperatures ranging from 37°C to 39°C and nighttime temperatures between 28°C and 31°C. Rain is rare, and the UV index is very high.
In short: bring sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing. Stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during midday. Fortunately, matches at the stadium start in the evening when it’s cooler.
Flights from India
With high demand during the Asia Cup, airfares are elevated but remain plentiful.
From Delhi, return fares on Emirates, Air India, and IndiGo range from ₹23,000 to ₹40,000, although early bookings may find deals as low as ₹15,000. One-way tickets are available for about ₹7,800.
From Mumbai, Emirates, Air India, and SpiceJet offer several direct flights weekly. One-way tickets start around ₹8,700, and return fares are generally ₹20,000–₹25,000.
From Pakistan
Karachi: One-way fares range from PKR 50,000 to 75,000 (Dh650–Dh980), with early-booked return flights around PKR 73,000 (Dh950).
Packages: Pakistani travel operators offer bundled deals, including flights and hotels, starting at PKR 170,000 for short stays and up to PKR 340,000 for a week-long package.
Tip: Prices increase significantly as match day approaches.
Items to Avoid Bringing
Avoid carrying drugs (even prescription medications without a doctor’s note), sharp objects, pornographic material, and large amounts of cash.
Items considered harmless in India and Pakistan, like poppy seeds or gutka, are banned in the UAE.
Accommodation in Dubai
Dubai offers a wide range of accommodations:
3-star hotels: from Dh240+ (₹6,000 / PKR 18,400) per night
4-star hotels: Dh360–Dh480 (₹9,000–12,000 / PKR 27,600–36,800) per night
5-star hotels: Dh1,000–Dh2,500+ (₹25,000–63,000 / PKR 76,700–191,800+) per night
Budget hostels/guesthouses: from Dh80+ (₹2,000 / PKR 6,100) per night
For convenience, consider staying near Dubai Sports City or Jumeirah Village Circle, close to the stadium. For sightseeing, Downtown Dubai offers stunning views of the Burj Khalifa but is farther away. Bur Dubai is another popular area, rich with Indian and Pakistani restaurants, including vegetarian options.
Is the Dubai Metro Connected to the Cricket Stadium?
No, the Dubai Metro does not reach Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The nearest station is Dubai Internet City on the Red Line, requiring a feeder bus (F34) or taxi to Sports City.
On match day, taxis or ride-hailing apps are the quickest option, taking 20–25 minutes from Downtown Dubai and costing Dh80–Dh100 (₹2,000–₹2,500 / PKR 6,100–7,700). The metro-plus-bus option is cheaper at Dh9–Dh14 but can take over an hour.
Ticket Prices
Tickets for the India-Pakistan match are in high demand. Early allocations, priced between Dh50 and Dh350 (₹1,250–₹8,750 / PKR 3,800–26,800), have sold out.
Fans still have the option to purchase seven-match packages, including India-Pakistan, India-UAE, other group fixtures, and the final. Prices range from ₹33,600 to ₹3.12 lakh / PKR 406,000 to 3.77 million, depending on seating and inclusions.
This week, the Emirates Cricket Board announced new offers on Platinum List, with India-Pakistan tickets available in a package for Dh475 (₹11,400 / PKR 36,400). Tickets will also be sold soon at the box offices of Dubai International Stadium and Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Currency and Spending
Dh1 = ₹24
Dh1 = PKR 76.72
Expenses
Taxi (Downtown-Stadium): Dh80–100 ₹2,000–2,500 PKR 6,100–7,700
Metro + Bus: Dh9–Dh14 ₹225–350 PKR 690–1,070
Budget meal: Dh20–Dh40 ₹500–1,000 PKR 1,500–3,000
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted — from taxis to malls.
Travel Tips
SIM cards: Available at the airport; data packs start around Dh50.
Dress Code: Light, modest clothing is recommended. Swimwear is appropriate only at beaches or pools.
Stadium Rules: Large bags, outside food, and drinks are prohibited. Arrive early to avoid queues.
Note: All currency conversions are approximate, based on exchange rates as of September 4, 2025. Travelers should check current rates before booking or making payments.
