Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced a revamped visa exemption policy, opening doors for citizens from 87 countries to enter the UAE without the hassle of pre-entry visa requirements. This move aims to streamline travel for tourists and facilitate a smoother visitation process to the country. However, nationals from 110 countries are still mandated to secure a visa prior to their arrival in the UAE.
In a bid to enhance accessibility, the UAE Digital Government has clarified that GCC citizens are exempted from visa requirements or sponsorship for their visits. They can simply present a passport issued by a GCC state or an identity card upon arrival at UAE ports of entry.
Moreover, those planning trips from abroad are encouraged to check the provided link (https://www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-information) to ascertain whether their nationality qualifies for visa exemption. Eligible individuals can obtain an entry visa upon arrival, valid for 30 days with an additional grace period of 10 days. Furthermore, citizens from certain countries have the option to extend their stay up to 90 days upon arrival.
For instance, Indian citizens holding ordinary passports, a visit visa or permanent resident card issued by the USA, or a residence visa in the UK and European Union countries valid for at least six months, are eligible for a visa on arrival. This permits a stay of 14 days initially, with the possibility of extension for another 14 days.
In situations where prior visa arrangements are mandatory, individuals not falling under visa exemption categories must secure an entry permit issued by a sponsor before entering the UAE. The type of entry permit required, issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, varies based on the purpose of the visit.
UAE visa on arrival for citizens of:
- 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
