Schengen Visa Appointments Nearly Full as UAE Residents Plan Festive European Getaways

As the festive season approaches, UAE residents are racing to secure their Schengen visas, eager to experience Europe’s charming Christmas markets, snowy streets, and cozy winter villages. However, travel agencies report that visa appointment slots are almost fully booked, with the high demand pushing available dates into early next year.

Subair Thekepurathvalappil, Senior Manager at Wisefox Tourism, revealed that while visas for Malta, Bulgaria, and Poland are still available this month, appointments for the Netherlands and Germany have been pushed to March and January, respectively. “The demand is very high, and we are not getting enough appointment slots,” he said.

Popular destinations such as Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, Poland, and Finland are topping travellers’ wish lists this holiday season, known for their dazzling Christmas villages and festive markets.

For many UAE residents, a European holiday in December has become a beloved tradition — from wandering through fairy-lit cobblestone streets to sipping hot chocolate at Christmas stalls and witnessing snow for the first time.

Pavan Poojary, Travel Consultant at Luxury Travels, noted that travellers are now planning their trips based on visa availability rather than travel dates. “As people want to travel, they are preferring appointment dates for later months as well,” he said. “Travel to Europe is skyrocketing for this year and early next year.”

Even those who manage to get appointments in early December must plan carefully, Poojary added. “The maximum visa appointment people can get now is in the first week of December. Since processing takes around 15 days, travellers can make it only if they receive their visas within the Christmas period.”

Among Schengen countries, Switzerland remains the most sought-after destination for UAE travellers this year, followed closely by Italy, Spain, and France, known for their picturesque towns, peaceful nature, and festive ambiance.

With Europe transforming into a winter wonderland each December, many travellers are booking months in advance to secure their spots. “People don’t mind applying now even if their travel is next year,” Subair explained. “They just want to make sure they get their slot for Schengen countries.”

Travel experts advise UAE residents to apply early to avoid disappointment, as appointment slots for popular Schengen destinations are filling quickly. Those unable to get appointments are encouraged to explore lesser-known European countries such as Bulgaria and Malta, where visa availability remains open.