United Arab Emirates Visa Requirements

Citizens from 70+ countries including the US, UK, EU nations, Australia, Japan, and South Korea receive visa-free entry for 30-90 days. Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Nigerian, and Pakistani nationals require a visa in advance.

If you need a visa, you can apply through Emirates or Etihad airlines (for ticket holders), your hotel in the UAE, a UAE-based sponsor, licensed travel agencies, or the ICP Smart Services portal (for some nationalities).

Most tourist visa applications are processed within 3-5 working days. Express processing is available for urgent travel. Visa on arrival is instant for eligible nationalities.

Tourist visa fees range from AED 350-1,100 ($95-300) depending on duration and type. 30-day single entry is typically AED 350, while 90-day multiple entry costs around AED 1,100. Visa-free nationalities pay nothing.

The UAE has an average approval rate of around 79%. Saudi, Chinese, and Filipino applicants see rates above 96%, Indians around 94%, while Pakistani applicants face higher refusal rates around 30%.

The Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa (5 or 10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students, and humanitarian pioneers. It allows extended stays without a sponsor and includes family members.

Visa-free visitors typically get 30 days (extendable to 60). Tourist visas come in 30-day and 90-day options, single or multiple entry. Maximum continuous stay is usually 90 days before you must exit.

Yes, citizens from 70+ countries receive visa on arrival. GCC residents of certain nationalities can also get visa on arrival. Check your eligibility based on your passport and any UAE residency status.