The UAE offers visa on arrival to eligible travellers from selected countries, allowing them to enter without applying for a visa in advance. However, eligibility depends on nationality, passport type and, in some cases, valid residence permits or visas issued by certain countries.
Travellers should always check the latest entry requirements before flying, as visa rules can change.
UAE Expands Visa-on-Arrival Eligibility
The UAE recently expanded its visa-on-arrival programme to benefit more travellers.
Effective 25 June 2026, ordinary passport holders from the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Kenya and South Africa may now obtain a visa on arrival if they hold a valid residence permit, visa or Green Card issued by one of the eligible countries specified by the UAE.
The expansion is intended to make travel to the UAE easier for eligible residents of these countries while supporting tourism and business travel.
Indian Nationals Continue to Qualify
Indian passport holders continue to be eligible for the UAE’s existing visa-on-arrival programme.
Indian citizens can receive a visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa, residence permit or Green Card issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, any European Union member state, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore or South Korea.
Who Can Get a UAE Visa on Arrival?
The UAE offers visa on arrival to three main groups:
- Citizens of countries that receive visa-free entry or visa on arrival based on nationality.
- Eligible Indian nationals meeting the required visa or residence permit conditions.
- Eligible passport holders from the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Kenya and South Africa who meet the required residence or visa conditions introduced in June 2026.
The type and duration of the visa depend on the traveller’s nationality and eligibility.
Visa Options and Fees
Eligible travellers under the residence permit or visa-based scheme can obtain either:
- 14-day visa on arrival – AED 100, extendable once for an additional 14 days upon payment of the applicable fee.
- 60-day visa on arrival – AED 250, not extendable.
Applicable service fees may also be charged according to UAE immigration regulations.
Basic Requirements
Travellers should generally have:
- A passport valid for at least six months.
- A valid residence permit, visa or Green Card from an eligible country where required.
- Supporting documents requested by UAE immigration authorities.
Immigration officers make the final decision on entry.
GCC Residents
GCC citizens do not require a visa to enter the UAE.
However, GCC residents who are not GCC nationals are generally required to apply for an electronic visa before travelling unless they qualify under another visa-on-arrival category.
If You Are Not Eligible
Travellers who do not qualify for visa on arrival must obtain a visa before travelling.
Tourist and visit visas can be arranged through UAE-based airlines, licensed travel agencies, hotels or the relevant UAE immigration authorities, depending on the type of visa required.
Check Before You Travel
Since visa policies may be updated periodically, travellers should verify the latest eligibility requirements before booking their trip. Using official UAE government sources helps ensure you have the most up-to-date information on visa categories, fees and entry conditions.