If you’re planning a trip to the UAE, understanding the visa requirements is crucial. The UAE visa on arrival is available for citizens of many countries, but there are also some important details to keep in mind. Let’s break down the essentials for a smooth entry into the UAE.
Did you know that citizens of 87 countries can enter the UAE without needing a prior visa? If you’re a tourist looking to explore the UAE’s wonders, here’s what you need to know:
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a list of the following 87 UAE visa on arrival countries on its official website. You can easily access this information to check if your country is on the list.
List of UAE visa on arrival countries
- Albania
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Austria
- Australia
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Brazil
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- El Salvador
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Honduras
- Hungary
- Hong Kong
- Special Administrative Region of China
- Iceland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Oman
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Republic of Ireland
- Romania
- Russia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- San Marino
- Saudi Arabia
- Seychelles
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- The Bahamas
- The Netherlands
- UK
- US
- Ukraine
- Uruguay
- Vatican
- Hellenic
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Armenia
- Fiji
- Kosovo
Visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and navigate to the page that provides updated information on visa exemptions and UAE visa on arrival for travellers holding ordinary passports from around the world.
UAE Visa Requirements for Other Countries
For citizens of 115 countries, a prior visa is required to enter the UAE. Be sure to understand the requirements and process beforehand:
If your country is not on the list of visa-free countries, you’ll need to apply for a visa before your trip.
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Make sure to check the details on the official website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security.
It’s also a good idea to get in touch with your airline for additional information on visa requirements.
UAE Visa on Arrival for GCC Citizens
If you’re a citizen of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country, you’re in luck:
Museum of the Future.
You don’t need UAE visa on arrival. GCC citizens can enter the UAE without needing an entry visa or a sponsor. All you need is a passport issued by a GCC country or an ID card. Simply present this at any port of entry, and you’re good to go.
List of GCC Countries
- Saudi Arabia
- Kuwait
- UAE (United Arab Emirates)
- Qatar
- Bahrain
- Oman
Entry visa for certain nationalities
The UAE Digital Government (UAE DGov) has made the entry process even smoother for some nationalities:
Check out the list of nationalities that do not require prior arrangements for an entry visa. You can find this list on the official website.
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If your nationality is on the list, you can get an entry visa upon arrival, valid for 30 days. This can be extended for an additional 10 days if needed.
Moreover, citizens of certain countries can obtain a visa upon arrival that’s valid for a generous 90 days.
UAE visa for Indians
If you’re a citizen of India, here’s what you need to know about entry visas:
Indian citizens holding ordinary passports with a validity of at least six months from the date of arrival, along with a visit visa or green card from the US, or a residence visa from the UK or EU countries (valid for at least six months), can obtain an entry visa upon arrival.
This visa is valid for 14 days and can be extended for another 14 days.
Understanding UAE entry permits
For some nationalities, an entry permit is required before arriving in the UAE. This depends on the purpose of your visit.
Entry permits are issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. The requirements vary based on the purpose of your visit, so make sure to check the specifics.
In conclusion, the UAE offers a range of entry options for travellers. Whether you’re from a visa-free country, a GCC citizen, or need to arrange for a visa or permit, understanding the process is key to a hassle-free visit.
FAQs about UAE Visa on Arrival
What is the official website to check UAE visa on arrival requirements?
You can visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://www.mofa.gov.ae/en/visa-exemptions-for-non-citizen for updated information on visa exemptions.
Can I extend my UAE entry visa beyond the initial duration?
Yes, in some cases, you can extend your entry visa. The UAE DGov allows extensions for certain types of visas. Check their official website for details.
Do Indian citizens with a US green card need a UAE visa in advance?
Indian citizens holding a US green card can obtain an entry visa upon arrival in the UAE, valid for 14 days and extendable.
How long is the UAE visa on arrival valid for GCC citizens?
GCC citizens can enter the UAE without a visa and stay for the duration of their visit, presenting their passport or ID card upon arrival.
Can I apply for UAE entry permit online?
Entry permits are typically arranged through sponsors and require an application process. Check with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs for detailed information on entry permits.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
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