By Wahid Ali | Operations Lead, Astamb Holidays, Mumbai | June 2026
Every year, our team at Astamb Holidays fields hundreds of calls from Indian travelers asking the same question: “What do I actually need to know before booking a Dubai trip?” The honest answer? More than what most travel websites tell you.
We’ve organized over 10,000 Dubai tours for Indian clients from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and beyond. And what I’ve learned in that time is that most travelers either overpack their itinerary, underestimate their visa timeline, or pick the wrong area to stay in. This guide fixes all three.
Dubai Tour Packages for Indian travelers in 2026 cover everything from ₹50,000 budget escapes to ₹2.5 lakh luxury experiences. And the city keeps raising the bar — the Museum of the Future, the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, and the new Dubai Blue Metro Line have all added fresh reasons to visit. Whether you are planning your first trip or your fifth, this guide gives you ground-level logistics that actually help.
📦 What Do Dubai Tour Packages Usually Include?
Most Dubai tour packages from India come pre-packaged with a standard set of services — but what’s actually inside varies quite a bit by agency and price point.
| ❓ What does a Dubai tour package include?
A standard Dubai tour package from India typically includes: return airfare from major Indian cities, a 30-day UAE tourist visa, airport transfers in Dubai, hotel accommodation (3 to 5 star), a desert safari with BBQ dinner, a Burj Khalifa visit, a Dubai city tour, and a Dhow Cruise dinner. Premium packages also add Abu Dhabi day trips, museum entries, and Ski Dubai. |
Standard Package Inclusions
- Return airfare from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, or Chennai
- UAE 30-day tourist visa processing and documentation
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Hotel stay (3-star to 5-star, based on package tier)
- Desert Safari with camel ride, dune bashing, and BBQ dinner
- Burj Khalifa At The Top visit (Level 124)
- Dubai City Tour (Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa area, Jumeirah Mosque exterior)
- Dhow Cruise dinner on Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina
Common Premium Add-Ons
- Abu Dhabi day trip (Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque + BAPS Hindu Mandir)
- Museum of the Future (₹2,500–₹3,200 entry)
- Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates
- Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
- Gold Souk + Spice Souk walking tour
| 🔍 Wahid’s Insider Tip
Always confirm whether your package includes visa fees or just ‘assistance.’ Some agencies quote low upfront and then add ₹7,000–₹9,000 for visa separately. At Astamb Holidays, we build the visa cost into every Dubai package quote so there are no surprises on payment day. |
🎡 Top Attractions Included in Dubai Tour Packages
Dubai has grown so fast that first-time visitors often don’t know where to start. Here are the attractions that are worth every rupee — and that our team consistently recommends across package tiers.
Burj Khalifa — The Non-Negotiable
The Burj Khalifa (828 metres, the world’s tallest building) is on every list for a reason. The At The Top observation deck on Level 124 costs around ₹3,200 per person for a timed entry. Skip the sunset slot — it is overcrowded and the price jumps by 40%. The night view from 9 PM onwards is just as dramatic, and tickets cost significantly less.
| 🔍 Local Insight: Save Money at Burj Khalifa
Book the 9 PM or later time slot for Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Fountain show runs every 30 minutes at night — you get both the Fountain show AND the skyline view from the top, all for a cheaper ticket price. Sunset tickets cost nearly ₹5,500 for the same experience. |
Desert Safari — The Experience Most Indians Love
A standard Dubai Desert Safari runs about ₹2,500–₹4,500 per person and includes afternoon dune bashing in a 4×4, a camel ride, sandboarding, henna painting, and an evening BBQ dinner with belly dancing and Tanoura shows.
The private camp upgrade (₹6,000–₹9,000) gives you a quieter camp, better food, and a more personal experience. Worth it for honeymoon couples or families who prefer a non-touristy vibe.
Dubai Mall + Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping mall by total area and houses the Dubai Aquarium, VR Park, and the famous Dubai Fountain show just outside. The fountain show is free to watch from the promenade and runs every 30 minutes after 6 PM. It is genuinely one of the best free things to do in Dubai.
Other Top Picks
- Museum of the Future: Futuristic architecture + immersive exhibits about 2071 Earth (₹2,500+)
- Palm Jumeirah: The famous palm island — best seen from the monorail or a boat
- Dubai Frame: A 150-metre picture frame building — budget-friendly at ₹1,500
- Gold Souk & Spice Souk (Deira): Best bargain shopping experience in Dubai
- Dhow Cruise: A traditional wooden boat dinner cruise — ₹1,800–₹3,500 per person
📅 Best Time to Book Dubai Tour Packages
Dubai has two main travel seasons for Indian tourists: November to March (peak) and June to August (off-season). The sweet spot for value is the shoulder season in March–April and October, when the weather is still good and prices haven’t peaked yet.
Indian travelers tend to crowd Dubai during Diwali (October–November), Christmas–New Year, and summer school holidays in May–June. If you want to avoid long queues at the Burj Khalifa and higher hotel prices, avoid these windows or book at least 6–8 weeks in advance.
| Month | Temp. | Season | Crowd Score | Highlights / Notes |
| Jan | 18–24°C | Peak | 9/10 | Dubai Shopping Festival, very busy |
| Feb | 19–25°C | Peak | 9/10 | Dubai Food Festival, high prices |
| Mar | 22–30°C | Shoulder | 6/10 | Good weather, fewer crowds |
| Apr | 27–35°C | Shoulder | 4/10 | Warm but manageable, good deals |
| May | 32–38°C | Off-Season | 2/10 | Heat begins, major discounts |
| Jun | 35–40°C | Off-Season | 1/10 | Indoor focus, summer sales |
| Jul | 36–41°C | Off-Season | 1/10 | Hottest month, cheapest rates |
| Aug | 36–41°C | Off-Season | 1/10 | Summer Surprises, low crowds |
| Sep | 33–38°C | Off-Season | 2/10 | Slowly cooling, good value |
| Oct | 27–33°C | Shoulder | 5/10 | Getting pleasant, rising crowds |
| Nov | 22–29°C | Peak | 8/10 | Ideal weather, strong demand |
| Dec | 18–24°C | Peak | 9/10 | New Year rush, premium pricing |
| 🔍 Best Booking Tip for Indian Travelers
March and October are the most underrated months for a Dubai trip. Weather is comfortable, hotel rates are 20–35% lower than December or January, and crowd levels at major attractions are manageable. If your school holiday schedule allows it, aim for late October. You will thank yourself later. |
💰 Dubai Tour Package Cost from India: Complete Budget Breakdown
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that Dubai is out of reach for Indian middle-class travelers. The reality is more nuanced. A 5-day Dubai trip from India can cost as little as ₹50,000 per person all-inclusive if you plan smartly. Luxury seekers can spend ₹2.5 lakh or more. The table below breaks it all down.
| Expense | Budget (₹) | Mid-Range (₹) | Luxury (₹) |
| Return Flights | ₹18,000–₹25,000 | ₹28,000–₹40,000 | ₹50,000–₹90,000 |
| Visa (30-day) | ₹7,000 | ₹7,500 | ₹9,000 |
| Hotel (per night) | ₹3,000–₹4,500 | ₹6,000–₹10,000 | ₹18,000–₹50,000+ |
| Meals (per day) | ₹1,200–₹1,800 | ₹2,000–₹3,500 | ₹5,000+ |
| Transport (per day) | ₹300–₹500 (Metro) | ₹600–₹1,200 (Mix) | ₹2,000+ (Taxi) |
| Sightseeing (5 days) | ₹5,000–₹8,000 | ₹10,000–₹18,000 | ₹25,000–₹50,000 |
| TOTAL (5 days, per person) | ₹50,000–₹65,000 | ₹85,000–₹1,15,000 | ₹1,35,000–₹2,50,000+ |
Visa Costs — What to Expect
Indian passport holders require a UAE tourist visa. Here’s the current 2026 fee structure:
- 14-Day Tourist Visa: ₹6,000–₹7,000
- 30-Day Tourist Visa: ₹7,000–₹8,500 (most popular for 5–7 day trips)
- 60-Day Tourist Visa: ₹13,000–₹15,000
- Express Processing (48 hours): +₹2,000–₹3,000 extra
Processing typically takes 3–4 working days. You can apply via VFS Global, the UAE GDRFA portal, Emirates Airlines, or through a licensed travel agent like Astamb Holidays.
Required Visa Documents
- Valid Indian passport (min. 6 months validity from travel date)
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Bank statement (last 3–6 months)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Flight Costs from India to Dubai
Direct flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kochi operate daily on IndiGo, Air Arabia, flydubai, Air India, and Emirates. Budget fares start around ₹9,000 one-way on promotional deals. A return fare ranges from ₹18,000 to ₹45,000 depending on season and airline.
| 🔍 Wahid’s Tip on Flights
Book flights separately from your hotel if you fly during off-peak months. But during peak season (December–January), a package deal from a trusted DMC like Astamb Holidays almost always works out cheaper than booking everything piecemeal. Our bulk airline contracts lock in better rates than OTAs. |
🏨 Which Area Should You Stay In Dubai?
Where you stay in Dubai determines your daily transport spend, food options, and how convenient sightseeing feels. Indian travelers have very different priorities from European tourists — proximity to Indian restaurants, metro access, and value for money matter much more.
| Area | Vibe | Hotel Range | Metro Access | Best For | Highlights |
| Downtown Dubai | Icons & malls | ₹10,000–₹25,000/night | Excellent | First-timers, couples | Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall |
| Dubai Marina | Waterfront & beach | ₹7,000–₹18,000/night | Good | Beach lovers, groups | JBR Beach, Marina Walk |
| Deira / Bur Dubai | Heritage & budget | ₹3,000–₹7,000/night | Good (2 metro stops) | Budget, Indian food fans | Gold Souk, Spice Souk |
| Palm Jumeirah | Luxury resort | ₹25,000–₹80,000+/night | Car needed | Honeymoon, luxury stays | Atlantis, beach resorts |
Downtown Dubai — Best for First-Timers
If it is your first trip, Downtown Dubai is worth the premium. You are walking distance from Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Fountain. Hotels here charge ₹10,000–₹25,000 per night but the convenience factor is real — especially with kids or older family members.
Deira & Bur Dubai — Best for Budget and Indian Food
This is where I personally point budget travelers. Deira and Bur Dubai are the cultural heart of old Dubai and feel the most familiar to Indian visitors.
The Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Meena Bazaar are all walkable. Indian restaurants in Karama and Bur Dubai serve full thalis, Kerala meals, and biryanis for ₹300–₹600 per person. Hotels start at just ₹3,000 per night with metro access included.
| 🔍 Indian Food Note
For the best Indian food in Dubai, head to Karama and Bur Dubai. Restaurants like Ravi’s (Pakistani-style), Kerala restaurants along Al Fahidi, and the many Udupi joints around Meena Bazaar serve affordable, vegetarian-friendly meals that taste like home. The Karama area near ADCB Metro Station is particularly good. |
Dubai Marina — Best for Beach Lovers and Groups
The Dubai Marina strip is perfect if beach time and evening walks matter to you. JBR Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence) is a 2 km stretch of free public beach lined with restaurants and cafes. Marina hotels are mid-range — around ₹7,000–₹18,000 per night.
🕌 Dubai + Abu Dhabi: Is It Worth Adding?
Short answer: yes, absolutely — especially for Indian travelers. Abu Dhabi is roughly 150 km from Dubai and a 1.5–2 hour drive. It works as a comfortable day trip from any Dubai hotel. We add it to nearly every 5-day and 7-day package we sell.
| ❓ Is Abu Dhabi worth a day trip from Dubai?
Yes. Abu Dhabi is approximately 150 km from Dubai — about 1.5 to 2 hours by road. A guided day trip covers the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the BAPS Hindu Mandir (the UAE’s first traditional Hindu stone temple), Qasr Al Watan palace, and the Abu Dhabi Corniche. Guided tours from Dubai cost ₹2,500–₹5,000 per person including transport and a guide. |
What to See in Abu Dhabi on a Day Trip
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the world’s largest mosques — dress modestly; abayas provided at the entrance (free)
- BAPS Hindu Mandir: The UAE’s first traditional Hindu stone temple — deeply meaningful for Indian visitors
- Qasr Al Watan: The Presidential Palace — stunning white marble architecture
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: World-class art museum on Saadiyat Island (₹2,000 entry)
- Abu Dhabi Corniche: A scenic waterfront drive — best at sunset
Day Trip Logistics
A guided group tour from Dubai costs around ₹2,500–₹4,000 per person with transport included. A private cab or car rental for the round trip costs ₹4,000–₹7,000 for the vehicle. There is no direct train between Dubai and Abu Dhabi as of 2026, so road travel is the only practical option.
| 🔍 BAPS Mandir Note for Indian Visitors
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi opened in 2024 and has become one of the most emotionally significant sites for Indian visitors to the UAE. It was built using intricate pink sandstone and white marble with traditional craftsmanship. Entry is free. Plan at least 45–60 minutes here — it is quietly moving in a way that surprises most visitors. |
🗺️ Sample Dubai Itineraries: 4-Day, 5-Day, and 7-Day
The right duration depends on what kind of traveler you are. Here’s how each option plays out in practice.
| Package | Best For | Key Highlights | Trade-offs | Approx. Cost (per person) |
| 4-Day Package | Budget / Couples | Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, Dubai Mall, Marina Walk | Skips Abu Dhabi and Palm Jumeirah | ₹55,000–₹75,000 |
| 5-Day Package | Families / First-timers | Above + Abu Dhabi day trip (Sheikh Zayed Mosque, BAPS Mandir) | Best value for coverage | ₹80,000–₹1,10,000 |
| 7-Day Package | Leisure / Groups | Above + Museum of the Future, Ski Dubai, Gold Souk, Dhow Cruise | Most relaxed pace | ₹1,10,000–₹1,80,000 |
4-Day Dubai Itinerary — The Quick Getaway
- Day 1: Arrive Dubai, check-in, explore Dubai Marina or JBR Beach in the evening
- Day 2: Burj Khalifa (At The Top) + Dubai Mall + Dubai Fountain show (night slot)
- Day 3: Desert Safari — afternoon dune bashing, camel ride, BBQ dinner under the stars
- Day 4: Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Dhow Cruise, shopping + departure
5-Day Dubai Itinerary — The Most Popular Choice
- Day 1: Arrival, check-in, Dubai Marina walk
- Day 2: Burj Khalifa + Dubai Mall + Fountain show
- Day 3: Desert Safari
- Day 4: Full-day Abu Dhabi tour — Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque + BAPS Mandir + Corniche
- Day 5: Museum of the Future + Deira Souks + Dhow Cruise + Departure
7-Day Dubai Itinerary — The Complete Experience
- Day 1: Arrive, settle in, evening at Dubai Frame
- Day 2: Burj Khalifa + Dubai Mall + Fountain show
- Day 3: Desert Safari
- Day 4: Abu Dhabi full-day trip
- Day 5: Museum of the Future + Global Village (if open, Oct–Apr)
- Day 6: Ski Dubai + Palm Jumeirah monorail + Atlantis view + JBR Beach
- Day 7: Gold Souk, Meena Bazaar, last-minute shopping, Departure
🇮🇳 Dubai Travel Tips for Indian Tourists: The Logistics Deep Dive
This is the section most travel websites skip. These are the logistics that actually determine how smooth your Dubai trip feels on the ground.
The Nol Card — Your Metro Best Friend
The Nol Card is Dubai’s universal transit smart card — the equivalent of Mumbai’s local train card. It works across the Dubai Metro, buses, trams, and water buses. You need one for every passenger; you cannot share.
Pick up a Silver Nol Card at the airport or any Metro station. It costs AED 25 (~₹575) with AED 19 credit preloaded. Top up at any Metro station kiosk or via the RTA Dubai app. A metro ride costs AED 4–7 (~₹90–₹160) depending on zones, compared to AED 25–50 (~₹575–₹1,150) for a standard taxi ride.
| 🔍 Nol Card Tip
The Dubai Metro Red Line connects the airport (Terminal 1 & 3) to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Marina in under 40 minutes. For Indian tourists staying in Deira or Bur Dubai, the Green Line connects you to Al Fahidi, Gold Souk, and Union Station. Using Metro instead of taxis for 5 days can save ₹5,000–₹8,000 per person easily. |
SIM Card — Etisalat vs du in 2026
Both Etisalat (e&) and du offer tourist SIM cards at Dubai International Airport immediately after landing. In 2026, both operators offer identical pricing and 4G/5G coverage, so just pick whichever counter has the shorter queue.
- Tourist SIM: ~AED 55–90 (₹1,200–₹2,000) for 5–10 days of data
- eSIM option: Often cheaper — available before departure via apps like Airalo
- Free WiFi: Available at most malls, hotels, and the Dubai Metro
Currency and Money — Forex Cards vs. Cash
The UAE Dirham (AED) is pegged at approximately 1 AED = ₹22–₹23 as of 2026. For Indian travelers, this makes Dubai pricing quite transparent to calculate.
- Forex Card (best choice): Load AED before travel via banks like HDFC or ICICI — better rates than airport exchange
- Cash: Carry AED 500–1,000 (₹11,000–₹23,000) for souks, tips, and street food
- Exchange: Use Al Ansari Exchange or UAE Exchange inside malls — better rates than airport counters
- Cards: Visa and Mastercard accepted almost everywhere; some souks prefer cash
- Avoid: Exchanging INR to AED at Indian airports — the rates are poor
Cultural Guidelines for Indian Tourists
- Public displays of affection: Keep it minimal — holding hands is fine but kissing is not
- Dress code: Smart casual in malls and tourist areas; cover shoulders and knees at mosques
- Ramadan rules: Do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours during Ramadan
- Photography: Do not photograph government buildings or people without permission
- Alcohol: Available at licensed hotel restaurants and bars; not in public areas
- Friday: Government services and some smaller shops are closed in the morning until 1–2 PM
Vegetarian Food in Dubai
Dubai is excellent for vegetarian Indian travelers. Karama, Bur Dubai, and Meena Bazaar have dozens of Indian restaurants serving pure-veg thalis, idli-sambar, Punjabi food, and South Indian meals. Look for restaurants carrying the green circle vegetarian symbol. Most budget vegetarian meals cost AED 15–30 (~₹340–₹690).
🌟 Why Book Your Dubai Package with Astamb Holidays?
At Astamb Holidays, we have been operating Dubai tours since 2009 and are recognized as a leading DMC (Destination Management Company) for Dubai. Here’s what makes our packages different:
- Ground team in Dubai: We don’t rely on third-party operators. Our local team handles hotel check-ins, transport, and on-ground support
- Customized packages: No cookie-cutter tours — we build around your dates, budget, and preferences
- Transparent pricing: Visa costs, taxes, and all inclusions stated upfront — no surprise charges
- Luxury accommodation: We work with Downtown, Marina, and Palm Jumeirah hotels at negotiated rates
- Indian traveler expertise: We understand dietary needs, cultural sensitivities, and what Indian travelers actually value
- 24/7 support: WhatsApp-based real-time assistance while you are on tour
| ✈️ Plan Your Dubai Trip with Astamb Holidays
We are a leading DMC for Dubai — offering fully customized packages, visa assistance, luxury hotels, desert safaris, and seamless airport transfers. 📞 Call us | 🌐 astambholidays.com | Based in Mumbai, India 🏆 Trusted by 10,000+ Indian Travelers | Packages from ₹50,000 per person |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai Tour Packages
Here are the most common questions Indian travelers ask before booking a Dubai trip.
How much does a Dubai tour package cost from India?
A 5-day Dubai tour package from India costs approximately ₹50,000–₹65,000 per person for a budget trip and ₹85,000–₹1,15,000 for mid-range. Luxury packages exceed ₹1,35,000 per person. These estimates include return flights, visa, hotel, transfers, and key sightseeing activities.
Which month offers the cheapest Dubai packages?
The cheapest months for Dubai packages from India are June, July, and August, when temperatures hit 40°C+ and demand drops sharply. Hotel rates can be 40–60% cheaper compared to December. If heat is manageable and your itinerary focuses on indoor experiences (malls, museums, Ski Dubai), summer is excellent value. October is the best shoulder-month if you prefer outdoor activities.
Is a visa included in Dubai tour packages?
It depends on the agency. Some agencies include the UAE 30-day tourist visa in the package price; others list it as an optional add-on. At Astamb Holidays, we include visa processing in every package. Always confirm this before booking. The current visa fee for Indians is approximately ₹7,000–₹8,500 for a 30-day tourist visa.
Can I customize my Dubai package with Astamb Holidays?
Yes, completely. Every package we offer at Astamb Holidays is customizable by travel dates, hotel category, number of nights, activities, and group size. We cater to solo travelers, couples, families, and corporate groups. Visit astambholidays.com or WhatsApp our team for a personalized quote within 24 hours.
Is the Dubai Metro useful for Indian tourists?
Very much so. The Dubai Metro is clean, air-conditioned, and punctual. The Red Line connects Dubai International Airport to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, and the Expo City station. The Green Line covers Deira, Gold Souk, and Bur Dubai. Using the Metro consistently can save ₹5,000–₹8,000 per person across a 5-day trip compared to taking taxis.
Is Dubai safe for Indian families and solo women travelers?
Dubai is considered one of the safest cities in the world. The UAE ranks consistently high in global safety indices. Women traveling solo report feeling secure, even at night in major tourist areas. Standard precautions apply — stick to well-lit areas, use licensed taxis or Careem/Uber, and respect local dress norms in conservative areas.
Do I need travel insurance for Dubai?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Dubai trips. It covers medical emergencies (healthcare in Dubai is expensive), trip cancellations, and lost baggage. Some visa processes require proof of insurance. Several Indian insurers (ICICI Lombard, Tata AIG, Bajaj Allianz) offer international travel plans from ₹500–₹1,500 for a 7-day trip.
| ✈️ Plan Your Dubai Trip with Astamb Holidays
We are a leading DMC for Dubai — offering fully customized packages, visa assistance, luxury hotels, desert safaris, and seamless airport transfers. 📞 Call us | 🌐 astambholidays.com | Based in Mumbai, India 🏆 Trusted by 10,000+ Indian Travelers | Packages from ₹50,000 per person |
| About the Author
Wahid Ali is a seasoned travel professional and Operations Lead at Astamb Holidays, Mumbai. With extensive experience in crafting travel experiences and destination insights, Wahid combines practical travel logistics expertise with engaging storytelling to help travelers explore hidden gems across India and beyond. His work blends expert travel planning with a passion for culturally rich and nature-oriented destinations. Connect with Wahid Ali on LinkedIn | astambholidays.com |
📚 References & Authoritative Sources
This article is backed by authoritative sources and research from official tourism boards, government portals, and established travel platforms.
- Visit Dubai — Official Tourism Portal
- UAE GDRFA — General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs
- UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP)
- RTA Dubai — Official Roads & Transport Authority (Nol Card & Metro)
- Emirates Airlines — Dubai Flights from India
- Burj Khalifa Official Website — At The Top Observation Deck
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre — Abu Dhabi
- VFS Global UAE Visa Application Centre — India
- Ministry of External Affairs India — Travel Advisories
- BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi — Official Information
- Museum of the Future Dubai — Official Website
- Ski Dubai — Official Website (Mall of the Emirates)
- Dubai Mall — Official Website
- Lonely Planet Dubai Destination Guide
- Astamb Holidays — Dubai Tour Packages
© 2026 Astamb Holidays Pvt. Ltd. | All Rights Reserved | astambholidays.com
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