The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa-on-arrival program, allowing citizens of 87 countries to enter the country without obtaining a visa beforehand. This move aims to streamline the tourist process and boost tourism in the Emirates.
Previously, only 73 countries enjoyed this visa exemption. The updated policy simplifies travel for a wider range of nationalities, making the UAE an even more attractive travel destination.
Who Needs a Visa Before Travelling to the UAE?
While 87 nationalities can now get a visa upon arrival, citizens from 110 countries, including India (for now), still require a visa before travelling to the UAE. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens are exempt from visas and can enter using their GCC passport or ID card.
Visa Exemption for GCC Citizens
GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) citizens continue to enjoy seamless entry into the UAE without the need for a visa or sponsorship. They can simply present their GCC state passport or identity card upon arrival, further fostering regional cooperation and travel ease.
List of 87 Countries Eligible for Visa Exemption
- Albania
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Armenia
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- El Salvador
- Estonia
- Fiji
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Hellenic
- Honduras
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kiribati
- Kosovo
- 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
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- The Bahamas
- The Netherlands
- UK
- Ukraine
- Uruguay
- US
- Vatican
- Vietnam
Here’s How the New Visa-on-Arrival System Works
For citizens of the 87 eligible countries, the process is simple. Upon arrival in the UAE, you can obtain a visa directly at immigration. This visa typically grants a stay of 30 days, with a possible 10-day grace period for extension.
Flexible Stay Period
For travellers eligible for visa-on-arrival in the UAE, a seamless entry experience awaits. Upon arrival, they can effortlessly secure a 30-day entry visa, with an added grace period of 10 days, offering ample time to explore the wonders of the Emirates.
Moreover, citizens from specific countries have the privilege of obtaining a 90-day visa directly upon arrival, further enhancing their travel flexibility and convenience.