Schools are closing, Europe is calling, but can you get a visa?

RISING DEMAND IN UAE AND LIMITED SLOTS MAKE LAST-MINUTE PLANS RISKY

- BY DHANUSHA GOKULAN

As UAE residents' eye the extended winter school break — stretching from the first week of December through early January — many are wondering whether European holiday plans are realistic given persistent concerns about Schengen visa appointment delays.

According to Monaz Billimoria, Deputy Regional Head UAE, Oman and Qatar of VFS Global, the answer is cautiously optimistic — but only for those who plan ahead. Contrary to popular perception, Schengen visa appointment availability has actually increased.

Slots up, but so is demand

“The Schengen have increased by almost 10 per cent compared to last year in terms of volume, and by the end of the year, they will probably be even a little more,” Billimoria told Gulf News.