Planning a getaway to the UAE? Whether it’s the shimmering skyline of Dubai or the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi that’s calling your name, the first step is knowing if you need a visa. Luckily, for citizens of over 80 countries, entering the UAE is easier than ever—no visa applications needed in advance!
To simplify things, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has launched an easy-to-use online visa eligibility tool to help you check if you qualify for visa-free entry, visa on arrival, or if you’ll need to apply in advance.
How to Check Your UAE Visa Requirements
With just a few clicks, you can find out your visa status:
- Head over to the official MOFA visa page: mofa.gov.ae/en/visa-exemptions-for-non-citizen
- Use the drop-down menu or interactive map to select your nationality.
- Based on your country, one of the following results will show:
- Visa Free: You’re good to go—no advance visa required!
- Visa Required: You’ll need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling.
- Visa Free: You’re good to go—no advance visa required!
Visa-Free & Visa on Arrival: How Long Can You Stay?
If you’re among the nationalities eligible for visa-free travel or visa on arrival, the length of your stay will depend on your passport:
- 30-day visa on arrival
- 90-day visa on arrival
Always double-check the duration specific to your country when planning your stay.
Special Entry: Visa on Arrival for Indian Passport Holders
Good news for Indian citizens! If you have a valid visa or residence permit from certain countries, you can get a visa on arrival in the UAE. You qualify if you hold:
- A valid tourist visa, residence permit, or Green Card issued by the United States
- A valid visa or residency from the EU, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada
This makes it much easier to plan a spontaneous trip without going through a full visa application process.
Not Eligible for Visa-Free Entry? Here’s What You Can Do
If your country isn’t on the exemption list, don’t worry—there are still multiple ways to apply for a UAE tourist visa:
- Through a UAE airline like Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, or Air Arabia
- Via a UAE-licensed travel agency or tour operator
- With sponsorship from a UAE-based friend or family member
Tourist visas are available for 14, 30, or 90 days, depending on your travel purpose and the method of application.
Where to Find Official UAE Visa Information
Before booking your trip, always check the latest updates from official government sources:
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship & Port Security (ICP)
- GDRFA Dubai
- Visit Dubai
- Visit Abu Dhabi
Final Thoughts: Your UAE Visa Checklist
- Use MOFA’s online tool to check your visa requirement.
- Citizens of 80+ countries may enjoy visa-free or on-arrival access.
- Indian passport holders with third-country visas are eligible for visa on arrival.
- If you need a visa, apply through airlines, travel agencies, or local sponsors.
- Always verify current entry requirements before booking flights.
Whether you’re headed for luxury shopping, desert adventures, or cultural experiences, knowing your visa status is the key to a stress-free start. Safe travels and enjoy your time in the UAE!
Also Read: E-visas for Saudi Arabia for GCC expats: How to apply