India's Supreme Court permits temporary outsourcing of passport services in the UAE.
The order, issued on Monday 20 July 2026, covers Indian missions in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Singapore and Canberra. It allows the Ministry of External Affairs to engage the existing L‑1 contractor, Alhind Tours and Travels, if its performance is satisfactory, until a fresh tender process is completed. The court made clear that the arrangement is purely interim and will not create any special equities for any party.
The directive came after the Union Government’s challenge to a Delhi High Court judgment was dismissed. The High Court had previously quashed the tender process for outsourcing Consular, Passport and Visa (CPV) services at four Indian missions, directing that a new competitive bidding exercise be conducted within one month.
Supreme Court order allows temporary outsourcing
In November 2025 the Indian Embassy had launched a tender to outsource consular services at its Abu Dhabi embassy and the Consulate General in Dubai. After a competitive process that included firms such as VFS Global and SGIVS Global, Kerala‑based Alhind Tours and Travels LLC emerged as the lowest bidder and was awarded the contract. Two unsuccessful bidders subsequently challenged the evaluation, prompting the High Court’s intervention.
With the legal hurdle cleared, the Supreme Court modified the High Court’s directions to permit interim arrangements. This enables the Indian missions to avoid disruption for the millions of Indian expatriates who rely on passport renewal, visa issuance and document attestation services. For the first time in 17 years, the missions have begun offering these services directly from their own premises, operating an appointment‑only system through a newly launched official portal.
Alhind Tours and Travels has indicated that its network of sixteen offices across the UAE is ready to take on the consular workload. A recent visit to the company’s largest facility in Bur Dubai showed empty waiting chairs and counters, with staff conducting simulations to ensure readiness. The company’s preparedness, combined with the court’s temporary approval, aims to smooth the transition while a fresh tender is organised.
Frequently asked questions
What temporary passport services are available for Indians in the UAE?
The Supreme Court of India has authorized Alhind Tours and Travels to provide interim passport and visa services for Indian missions in the UAE, enabling expatriates to renew passports and obtain visas through the company's network.
How long will Alhind Tours operate these services before a new tender is issued?
The arrangement is interim; Alhind Tours can continue providing services until a fresh competitive tender process is completed, as stipulated by the court order.
Which Indian missions in the UAE are covered by the Supreme Court order?
The order covers the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai, allowing them to use Alhind Tours for passport and visa services during the interim period.
How can Indian expatriates book an appointment for passport renewal under the new system?
The missions have launched an appointment‑only system via an official portal, letting expatriates schedule passport renewal or visa issuance appointments online.
