United Arab Emirates Tourist Visa
UAE Tourist Visa · For Ethiopia citizens
Planning a trip to the UAE as an Ethiopian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the UAE tourist visa application: required documents, current fees starting from AED 350 (US$95), processing times of 3-5 business days, and strategies to improve your approval chances. With proper documentation and financial evidence, you can explore Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond.
UAE Tourist Visa for Ethiopian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Ethiopia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Ethiopian passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry
Recent passport-sized photograph meeting UAE visa specifications
Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your trip to the UAE
Confirmed booking showing where you will stay during your UAE visit
Round-trip flight booking showing entry and exit from the UAE
Valid health insurance policy covering your stay in the UAE
Complete visa application submitted through authorized channels
Application Process
Ethiopian citizens must apply for a UAE tourist visa before traveling.1 Unlike some nationalities, Ethiopians cannot obtain a visa on arrival. Here is the application process:
1. Choose Application Channel
Apply through one of the following authorized channels:1
- Emirates or Etihad Airways (if flying with them)
- Licensed UAE travel agencies
- Hotels in the UAE that offer visa services
- Online visa service providers
2. Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary documents including:2
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Passport-sized photo
- Bank statements (last 6 months, minimum US$4,000 balance)
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Round-trip flight reservation
- Health insurance
3. Submit Application
Complete the online application form and upload all documents. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.1
4. Pay Visa Fee
Pay the applicable fee based on your visa type:1
- 30-day single entry: AED 350 (US$95)
- 30-day multiple entry: AED 690 (US$188)
- 60-day single entry: AED 500 (US$136)
- 90-day single entry: AED 600 (US$163)
5. Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 3-5 business days. You will receive your visa via email once approved.2
6. Print Your Visa
Download and print your approved visa. Carry it with you when traveling to the UAE.
Fees
| Visa Type | Cost (AED) | Cost (USD) | Stay Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Day Single Entry | AED 350 | US$95 | 30 days |
| 30-Day Multiple Entry | AED 690 | US$188 | 30 days |
| 60-Day Single Entry | AED 500 | US$136 | 60 days |
| 60-Day Multiple Entry | AED 950 | US$258 | 60 days |
| 90-Day Single Entry | AED 600 | US$163 | 90 days |
| Extension (if needed) | AED 1,000 | US$272 | +30 days |
Additional service fees may apply depending on your application channel.1
What You Need to Prove
To obtain a UAE tourist visa, you must demonstrate:1
- Financial stability: Bank balance of at least US$4,000 over 6 months
- Valid travel documents: Passport valid for 6+ months with blank pages
- Clear travel plans: Confirmed accommodation and return flights
- Health coverage: Valid travel insurance for your stay
- Genuine tourist intent: You plan to visit for tourism and will leave before visa expires
Processing Times
Current processing times for Ethiopian citizens:2
| Processing Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Standard | 3-5 business days |
| Expedited (where available) | 1-2 business days |
Processing may take longer during:
- Peak tourist seasons (December-January, July-August)
- UAE public holidays
- High application volumes
After Your Visa is Approved
Once your UAE tourist visa is approved:
- Download and print your visa approval letter
- Verify all personal details are correct
- Confirm your flight and hotel bookings
- Ensure you have health insurance documents ready
- Prepare proof of funds for potential immigration questions
At UAE immigration, you may be asked to show:
- Printed visa approval
- Return flight ticket
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Proof of sufficient funds
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused:
- Review the reason: Understand why your application was rejected
- Address deficiencies: Fix any issues with documentation or finances
- Reapply: Submit a new application with improved documentation
- Seek professional help: Consider using a reputable visa agency for assistance
Common reasons for refusal include insufficient funds, incomplete documents, or passport issues. Address these before reapplying.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Bank Balance
Bank statements showing less than the required US$4,000 or inconsistent balances over the past 6 months.
How to avoid: Maintain a steady bank balance of at least US$4,000 for 6 months before applying. Avoid sudden withdrawals or unexplained deposits.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing documents such as hotel booking, flight itinerary, or unclear passport copies leading to application rejection.
How to avoid: Prepare a complete checklist and verify all documents meet requirements before submission.
Passport Issues
Passport with less than 6 months validity, damaged pages, or insufficient blank pages.
How to avoid: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and two blank pages before applying.
Inconsistent Information
Discrepancies between application information and supporting documents, such as name spelling or date mismatches.
How to avoid: Double-check that all details in your application exactly match your passport and other documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Ethiopian citizens get a UAE visa on arrival?
No, Ethiopian citizens are not eligible for visa on arrival in the UAE. You must apply for a tourist visa before traveling through airlines, travel agents, or hotels authorized to process UAE visas.
How long can I stay in the UAE on a tourist visa?
The standard tourist visa allows 30 days in the UAE. Longer options of 60 and 90 days are available at higher fees. Extensions may be possible for an additional AED 1,000.
What is the UAE tourist visa fee for Ethiopian citizens in 2025?
The 30-day single entry visa costs AED 350 (approximately US$95). Multiple entry and longer duration visas range from AED 500 to AED 950. Prices may vary by processing agent.
How long does UAE visa processing take for Ethiopian citizens?
Standard processing takes 3-5 business days. Expedited processing may be available for additional fees through some airlines and travel agents.
How do I apply for a UAE tourist visa from Ethiopia?
You can apply through: (1) Airlines like Emirates or Etihad, (2) Licensed travel agencies in Ethiopia, (3) UAE hotels that offer visa processing, or (4) Online visa service providers. Embassy applications are generally not accepted for tourist visas.
What is the minimum bank balance required for UAE visa?
You should have a minimum bank balance of US$4,000 or equivalent, maintained over the last 6 months. This demonstrates you can financially support yourself during your UAE visit.