VisaAll UAE
Visa-on-arrival countries for the UAE in 2026 — the full list
70+ nationalities can enter the UAE without pre-arranging a visa, but the rules differ by passport. Here's the full updated list, the duration each gets, and the exceptions.
The UAE operates one of the most generous visa-on-arrival regimes in the world. 70+ nationalities can land at any UAE airport, present their passport at immigration, and receive a free-of-charge stamp valid for 30, 60 or 90 days depending on their nationality. This guide covers the 2026 rules and the small print most other sites miss.
Who gets visa-on-arrival
90 days within 180 days (multiple entry)
Nationals of the following countries can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period, across multiple entries:
All EU countries (27)
United Kingdom
United States
Canada
Australia
New Zealand
Switzerland
Norway
Iceland
Singapore
South Korea
Japan
Hong Kong (SAR)
Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Vatican City, San Marino
Brunei, Malaysia
60 days (single entry)
Mexico, Honduras and El Salvador get a 60-day single-entry visa-on-arrival.
30 days (single entry, extendable)
Most other 'visa-on-arrival' countries get 30 days, including Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Mauritius, Seychelles, Botswana, China (and others). The 30-day stamp can be extended once for another 30 days at any ICP or Amer service centre for AED 600.
Who does NOT get visa-on-arrival
Nationals of South Asian countries (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal), most African countries (Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya being notable exceptions for certain passports), most former-Soviet states beyond Russia, and most South American countries (Brazil and Chile being major exceptions). These applicants need a pre-approved tourist visa, which can be arranged via:
Any UAE-based airline (Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia) when booking a flight.
Any UAE hotel sponsoring your stay.
Online via the GDRFA Dubai or ICP websites if you have a UAE-resident sponsor.
Document requirements at immigration
Passport with at least 6 months' validity beyond your entry date.
A confirmed return or onward flight ticket — checked at random; some airlines refuse boarding without one.
Hotel booking or proof of address from a UAE-resident host.
No specific minimum-funds requirement, but you may be asked for evidence of means if your stay is long.
Multi-entry tourist visa
Introduced in 2024, the multi-entry tourist visa lets eligible nationals enter the UAE multiple times over five years, with each visit limited to 90 days. The fee is AED 650 and the application is online via the ICP app. It's useful for frequent visitors who fall short of the residency thresholds.
GCC residents
GCC residents (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar) holding a valid residence permit can enter the UAE visa-free for up to 30 days, regardless of original nationality, provided their GCC residence has at least 3 months' remaining validity.
Overstay fines
Overstaying costs AED 50 per day starting the day after your visa expires (the old AED 200 first-day fine was abolished in 2022). If you overstay 30+ days, you may also be blocked from re-entry for 30 days. Always extend before expiry if needed.
Where to verify
Visa rules change quickly. Always cross-check with the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (icp.gov.ae) or your UAE embassy before booking flights. This guide is informational only.
