The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced major changes to its visa-on-arrival policy, making it easier for more international travellers to enter the country.
According to a June 2026 update issued by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, six new countries have been added to the visa-on-arrival programme. Effective from June 25, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa, along with their eligible family members, can obtain a visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of the UAE’s approved countries.
Travellers who do not possess a qualifying visa or residence permit will still be required to obtain a UAE visa before travelling.
The UAE has also retained the existing visa-on-arrival facility for Indian citizens while expanding the list of accepted visas and residence permits to include New Zealand, Japan, Singapore and South Korea. These join the previously recognised countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, European Union member states, Australia and Canada.
Under the updated rules, the permitted duration of stay will vary depending on the traveller’s nationality and eligibility. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and visa-exempt Western nations may continue to stay for up to 30 or 90 days. Eligible Indian nationals holding valid visas from the US, UK or European countries will receive a 14-day visa on arrival, while travellers from the newly added countries may be granted visas ranging from 14 to 60 days.
In another significant relief for travellers, citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt and Nepal who hold valid and active visas or residence permits from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia or Canada will also be eligible to receive a 30-day visa on arrival at UAE airports.
Immigration authorities have clarified that travellers do not need to use an agent or third party to obtain the visa. Eligible passengers can complete the process directly at passport control counters upon arrival at airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah. Applicants must have a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient financial means or a recent bank statement.
The UAE authorities have also warned that overstaying a visa will result in strict penalties, including a fine of AED 50 per day without exception. Travellers who do not meet the visa-on-arrival requirements can apply in advance for a 30-day or 60-day tourist visa through the UAE’s online visa system.
Also read: Dubai announces to issue single-entry visas within 48 hours
