The United Arab Emirates has expanded its visa-on-arrival programme to include nationals of six additional countries, along with their accompanying family members.
Effective from 25th June, the new policy allows ordinary passport holders from Indonesia, Viet Nam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa to obtain a visa on arrival for either 14 or 60 days, provided they hold a valid residence permit from the United States, a European Union member state, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada.
The initiative reflects the UAE’s flexible entry and residency system and its ongoing commitment to simplifying travel procedures while ensuring a smooth and seamless visitor experience.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the expanded eligibility demonstrates the UAE’s efforts to strengthen ties with friendly nations and deepen economic, cultural, and people-to-people relations. It also aims to encourage more visitors to experience the country’s diverse cultural offerings, strong tourism sector, dynamic economy, and world-class infrastructure. The Ministry further noted its continued coordination with relevant authorities to facilitate travel, streamline consular services, and reinforce the UAE’s position as a leading global destination for business, investment, entrepreneurship, and talent.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) highlighted that the update is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the UAE’s visa system, broaden eligibility, and align services with international best practices in travel and mobility. It also supports stronger cooperation with partner countries and improves the UAE’s standing in global competitiveness indicators related to tourism and residency.
The ICP clarified that applicants must be nationals of one of the six eligible countries and hold a valid residence permit from one of the approved countries to qualify. The visa is available in two options: 14 days or 60 days.
The 14-day visa can be extended once while in the UAE, whereas the 60-day visa is non-extendable and requires departure upon expiry. Overstaying beyond the permitted duration will incur a fine of AED 50 per day.
The application fee is AED 100 for the 14-day visa and AED 250 for the 60-day visa.
