The UAE has broadened its visa-on-arrival programme, allowing citizens from six additional countries to enter the nation and stay for up to 60 days under updated travel regulations.
UAE Expands Visa-on-Arrival Access, Granting Six More Nationalities 60-Day Entry Privileges.
Following the latest revision to entry visa regulations, citizens of six additional countries are now included among those eligible for the programme.
The United Arab Emirates has introduced changes to its entry visa regulations, expanding access for travellers from a wider range of countries. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has updated the eligibility requirements for UAE entry visas, allowing more international visitors to benefit from the revised system.
The latest amendments are part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to develop a more flexible and welcoming travel framework. By widening the categories of eligible applicants, the country aims to make the process of visiting and staying in the UAE more convenient for tourists, business travellers, and international guests.
The revised criteria apply to multiple visa categories, including short-term entry permits that allow stays of 14 days and extended options that provide up to 60 days of access. The expansion reflects the UAE’s continued focus on improving mobility, strengthening international connections, and creating a smoother experience for visitors arriving from different parts of the world.
Under the newly announced changes, citizens of six additional countries have been included in the list of nationalities eligible for the updated visa arrangements. The newly added countries are Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa.
Before this update, the eligibility under this category was limited to Indian nationals. The inclusion of more countries represents a broader approach by UAE authorities to expand travel opportunities and encourage greater interaction with visitors from diverse regions.
The decision is expected to make travel planning easier for eligible nationals by providing them with more accessible visa options. The move also supports the UAE’s wider strategy of attracting international visitors, promoting tourism growth, and enhancing its position as a global destination for business, leisure, and cultural exchange.
In addition to expanding nationality-based eligibility, the updated rules also introduce changes related to approved countries of residence. The UAE has added six more countries to the list of qualifying places of residence, allowing residents of these locations to benefit from the revised entry conditions.
The newly included residence countries are Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. These additions join the previously recognised locations, which include the United States, European Union member states, and the United Kingdom.
The expansion of qualifying residence countries highlights the UAE’s efforts to create a broader and more inclusive visa system. By recognising both nationality and residency factors, the updated framework provides additional pathways for eligible travellers who may not necessarily hold citizenship from previously approved countries.
The changes come as part of the UAE’s broader approach to modernising its immigration and residency policies. Over recent years, the country has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving accessibility, attracting global talent, supporting tourism, and strengthening economic partnerships with countries around the world.
The UAE has become one of the most popular destinations for international travellers due to its advanced infrastructure, business opportunities, cultural attractions, and global connectivity. Cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to attract millions of visitors each year, and simplified entry procedures are seen as an important factor in supporting this growth.
The revised visa rules are also expected to benefit industries that rely heavily on international visitors, including hospitality, retail, aviation, tourism, and events. Easier access can encourage more travellers to explore the UAE for holidays, conferences, investment opportunities, and professional activities.
The country’s flexible visa policies are designed not only to welcome tourists but also to strengthen its role as a global hub. By making entry procedures more adaptable, the UAE aims to remain competitive in attracting visitors, entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled professionals from across the world.
The latest expansion demonstrates the government’s commitment to continuously improving its services and responding to changing global travel trends. As international movement becomes increasingly important for economic and cultural connections, countries are adapting their immigration systems to provide more efficient and user-friendly experiences.
For eligible travellers, the updated regulations offer additional opportunities to visit the UAE with greater convenience. The inclusion of new nationalities and residence locations represents a significant step toward creating a more open and accessible travel environment.
The UAE’s updated visa framework reflects a balance between maintaining organised entry procedures and encouraging international engagement. Through these reforms, the country continues to strengthen its reputation as a destination that welcomes visitors while supporting long-term growth and global partnerships.
With the latest amendments, more people from different regions will have the opportunity to experience the UAE’s attractions, explore business possibilities, and connect with the country’s diverse communities. The move reinforces the UAE’s vision of building a modern, internationally connected nation with a travel system designed for the future.
Eligibility requirements for the updated UAE visa programme
The UAE’s revised entry visa system has introduced new opportunities for travellers from several countries, but applicants must meet specific requirements before they can benefit from the updated rules. The eligibility criteria apply not only to individual applicants but also to their accompanying family members who wish to travel under the same arrangement.
To qualify for the newly expanded visa options, applicants must satisfy two main conditions. The first requirement relates to nationality. The applicant must hold citizenship from one of the countries included in the newly approved list. These countries are India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa.
The second condition focuses on residency status. Eligible applicants must also possess a valid residence permit issued by one of the approved countries or regions recognised under the updated framework. The qualifying residence locations include the United States, European Union member states, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Meeting both conditions is necessary for applicants to access the updated visa categories. This approach allows the UAE to provide easier travel options while maintaining a structured system that verifies applicants through both nationality and residency information.
The updated requirements are designed to make the entry process more accessible for a wider group of international travellers. By considering both citizenship and legal residence status, the UAE aims to attract visitors who have established connections with globally recognised countries while ensuring a smooth and organised immigration process.
Duration of stay under the new visa categories
The revised visa programme offers two different stay options, giving applicants flexibility depending on the purpose and length of their visit. Travellers may be eligible for either a short-term 14-day entry visa or a longer 60-day visa option.
The type of visa issued depends on the category selected by the applicant and the conditions applicable at the time of application. The two options provide greater convenience for visitors with different travel needs, whether they are planning a brief visit, attending meetings, exploring tourism opportunities, or spending more time with family and friends in the UAE.
The introduction of different stay periods reflects the UAE’s efforts to create a more adaptable travel environment. By offering multiple options, authorities aim to support a wider range of visitors while maintaining clear rules around entry and residence periods.
Rules regarding visa extensions
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has also clarified the extension policies linked to the two visa categories.
For travellers holding the 14-day visa, an extension option is available. The visa holder may request an extension once while remaining in the UAE, subject to the applicable regulations and approval procedures.
However, the 60-day visa follows different rules. This category is issued as a single-entry permit and cannot be extended after the approved period has ended. Visitors holding this visa must complete their stay within the authorised timeframe and make arrangements to leave the country before the permit expires.
The different extension conditions are intended to provide flexibility for shorter visits while ensuring that longer-term entry permissions remain clearly regulated.
Importance of following visa regulations
Authorities have reminded all visa holders that they are responsible for complying with the approved duration of stay. Visitors must leave the UAE before the expiry date mentioned on their entry permit.
Individuals who remain in the country beyond the permitted period may face penalties. Under the current rules, an overstay charge of Dh50 per day applies to those who exceed their authorised stay without obtaining the required approval or extension.
The UAE encourages visitors to carefully monitor their visa validity dates and complete any necessary procedures before their permitted period ends. Following these regulations helps ensure a smooth travel experience and supports the country’s organised immigration system.
Visa costs and application fees
The updated visa programme also includes clearly defined fees for applicants. The cost depends on the type of visa requested.
The fee for the 14-day entry visa is Dh100, while applicants choosing the 60-day visa category are required to pay Dh250.
The introduction of these structured fees provides transparency for travellers planning their visits. Applicants can understand the expected costs before beginning the application process, making travel arrangements easier and more predictable.
Supporting international cooperation and stronger connections
The expansion of UAE visa eligibility is also viewed as part of the country’s wider efforts to strengthen relationships with international partners. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the updated system supports stronger cooperation with friendly nations and encourages greater humanitarian, economic, and cultural exchanges.
By allowing more people to visit the UAE, the initiative creates new opportunities for international interaction. Visitors from eligible countries can explore the UAE’s cultural traditions, modern infrastructure, business environment, and tourism attractions.
The programme is expected to support stronger connections between communities by making it easier for people to travel, build relationships, and participate in cultural and professional activities.
Encouraging tourism, business, and talent mobility
The UAE has become a leading global destination for tourism, investment, and professional opportunities. The expansion of visa eligibility aligns with the country’s goal of remaining open and connected to the world.
The updated entry system provides additional opportunities for travellers to experience the UAE’s diverse offerings, from cultural landmarks and heritage sites to modern developments and international business hubs.
For professionals and skilled individuals, easier access can also support networking, collaboration, and exploration of career opportunities. The UAE has consistently worked to attract global talent and strengthen its position as a centre for innovation, commerce, and international cooperation.
UAE’s focus on modern travel systems
A spokesperson from the Identity and Foreigners Affairs sector at ICP highlighted that the latest amendments reflect changing global travel patterns and the growing demand for more flexible mobility solutions.
As international travel continues to evolve, countries are adapting their visa systems to provide more efficient and convenient experiences for visitors. The UAE’s updated approach aims to balance accessibility with effective immigration management.
The revised visa framework demonstrates the country’s commitment to improving services and responding to the needs of modern travellers. By expanding eligibility, introducing clearer categories, and simplifying access for qualified applicants, the UAE continues to enhance its reputation as a welcoming global destination.
Looking ahead
The latest visa changes represent another step in the UAE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its connections with the international community. Through expanded eligibility, flexible stay options, and improved travel procedures, the country is creating more opportunities for visitors from around the world.
The initiative supports the UAE’s broader vision of encouraging cultural exchange, economic partnerships, and global collaboration. As more travellers gain access to the country, the updated visa system is expected to contribute to tourism growth, business development, and stronger international relationships.
With these reforms, the UAE continues to position itself as a modern, accessible, and globally connected nation prepared to meet the changing needs of travellers in the years ahead.
