Last Updated on September 3, 2026 by Shitiz Srivastava
Travelers to the UAE face fewer restrictions than in almost any other country. Citizens of many nations may enter with little more than their passport and a boarding pass.
A Gateway Built for the World
Dubai, home to the world’s tallest building, and Abu Dhabi, known for its museums and galleries, are among the top tourist destinations worldwide.
For many years, the UAE has been positioning itself as the ultimate destination for tourists, businessmen and those seeking a unique experience in terms of art, history, and culture.
Given that millions of people visit these cities every year, the UAE government has made it possible for many of them to come without pre-arranging a visa.
In fact, the UAE offers a visa on arrival program which is available to an unexpectedly large number of nationalities.
As such, the UAE is one of the few destinations in the Middle East that is relatively easy to reach.
Regardless if you are visiting for business or leisure, or simply stopping over at the Emirates, having knowledge of what nationalities qualify and for how long, will help you avoid unnecessary expenses of time, money and paperwork.
Also Read : What documents do I need for visa on arrival in UAE?
Who Gets Visa on Arrival — and for How Long?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a Tiered Visa on Arrival System for various nationalities.
Citizens of the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), consisting of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have the easiest entry into the UAE.
All they need is their valid Government issued I.D. Card.
In addition to the GCC, Citizens of many other Nations can get Free Visa On Arrival.
Citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore, China, New Zealand, Malaysia and several other countries are entitled to a Free 30-Day Visa On Arrival that will be stamped on their passport upon entry.
Citizens of Most European Union Member Countries as well as Countries such as Brazil, South Korea, Russia, Argentina, Norway, Switzerland and Israel are entitled to a Free 90-Day Multiple Entry Visa On Arrival.
Mexican Nationals however stand alone as they are entitled to an incredible 180 Days Visa On Arrival, the longest visa on arrival period.
- USA (30 days)
- UK (30 days)
- Australia (30 days)
- Canada (30 days)
- Japan (30 days)
- China (30 days)
- Singapore (30 days)
- Brazil (90 days)
- South Korea (90 days)
- Russia (90 days)
- EU Countries (90 days)
- Mexico (180 days)
Special Rule for Indian Passport Holders:
Indian citizens are eligible for the standard visa upon arrival in the UAE but there is an exception to this rule. The exceptions are if you have a valid US visa or green card, or a UK visa or residence permit, or a visa/residence permit issued by any of the member states of the European Union; then you can get a 14 day single entry visa on arrival at the UAE airports as long as you pay the nominal fee.
What You Need Before You Board
Even if your country is on the list for visa on arrival, there are several mandatory requirements you must meet.
Your passport has to be good for at least six months after your entry into the UAE, a strict requirement by immigration.
Most airlines will review this prior to allowing you to board a flight, so make sure you know when your passport is set to expire.
Immigration officials might ask for evidence that you plan to depart the UAE within the time frame allowed by your visa.
You may be questioned about having sufficient money to support yourself while you are in the UAE, but for most people traveling through the UAE, this is not a common requirement.
Also, please note that the UAE is continuously updating their visa on arrival policy.
The list of eligible countries and/or other conditions may change.
It would be best to contact your local UAE embassy to confirm any changes before making travel arrangements.
Also Read : What is Saudi Transit Visa Fees & Costs?
The Bottom Line
The UAE’s “Visa On Arrival” is an illustration of the country’s goal for being the world’s top tourist destination.
The procedure for travelers from the qualified countries is a simple one – No prior application submissions; No long lines at embassies; No delays.
Once you arrive, you receive a stamp, and then you are allowed into the UAE.
Although the UAE may not offer visas upon arrival for all nationalities, it provides a relatively easy e-Visa process through official websites and airline partner programs.
Whether you plan a weekend in Dubai or an extended stay across the UAE, the travel entrance process is now friendlier than ever.
It is always best to check your eligibility before your trip, and when you do, you will find the UAE doors open.
