The United Arab Emirates has expanded its visa-on-arrival scheme to include ordinary passport holders from six additional countries, provided they hold valid residency from specified Western or Asian nations.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), alongside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), announced that nationals of the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Kenya, and South Africa can now secure entry permits directly at UAE border points. To qualify, travellers and their accompanying family members must hold a valid residence permit or visa issued by the United Kingdom, the United States, a European Union member state, Canada, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, or South Korea.
Under the new directive, eligible visitors can opt for either a short-term 14-day stay or a long-term 60-day stay. The total issuance fee is set at Dhs 100 for the 14-day permit and Dhs 250 for the 60-day permit.
Strict operational regulations apply to the renewal and expiration of these entry permits. The 14-day visa allows for a single extension while inside the country, whereas the 60-day visa is strictly non-extendable and valid for a single stay only. Visitors are required to depart the country immediately upon the expiration of their permitted tenure.
Failure to exit the UAE before the visa expires will result in overstay fines of Dhs 50 per day on individuals who exceed their designated stay duration.
The strategic adjustments aim to enhance the UAE’s global tourism and economic competitiveness while simplifying travel logistics for expatriate communities residing globally.