The move reflects the UAE’s flexible entry and residency framework and its commitment to making travel more convenient while ensuring visitors enjoy a seamless travel experience
The UAE has expanded its visa-on-arrival programme to include nationals of six countries and their accompanying family members, further strengthening the country’s efforts to facilitate travel and enhance its appeal as a global destination for tourism, business and investment.
Under the new decision, nationals of the Republic of Indonesia, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, the Kingdom of Thailand, the Republic of the Philippines, the Republic of Kenya and the Republic of South Africa holding ordinary passports will be eligible to obtain either a 14-day or 60-day visa on arrival.
The visa facility is available to eligible travellers who hold a valid residence permit issued by the US, a European Union member state, the UK, the Republic of Singapore, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand or Canada. Accompanying family members who meet the requirements will also be eligible under the scheme.
The move reflects the UAE’s flexible entry and residency framework and its commitment to making travel more convenient while ensuring visitors enjoy a seamless travel experience, according to a report by the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Strengthening international ties
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the expansion of eligibility for the visa-on-arrival programme underscores the UAE’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with friendly nations and fostering closer economic, cultural and people-to-people ties.
The ministry noted that the initiative will create greater opportunities for eligible travellers to experience the UAE’s diverse cultural landscape, world-class tourism attractions and dynamic economy. It also highlighted the country’s attractive business environment and internationally recognised infrastructure as key factors supporting its position as a preferred destination.
In its statement, the ministry said it will continue working closely with relevant national authorities to facilitate the movement of travellers, streamline consular procedures and further reinforce the UAE’s standing as a leading global hub for business, investment, entrepreneurship and talent.
Enhancing the visa framework
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) said the amendments form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the UAE’s visa framework and broaden the range of beneficiaries.
According to the authority, the latest changes are aligned with international best practices in travel, tourism and mobility, while also supporting cooperation with partner countries.
The ICP added that the decision contributes to the UAE’s strong performance in global competitiveness indicators related to residency, tourism and travel, further enhancing the country’s reputation as a welcoming destination for visitors from around the world.
Eligibility, duration and fees
The authority explained that applicants and their accompanying family members must be nationals of one of the six eligible countries and possess a valid residence permit issued by one of the approved countries in order to qualify for the visa-on-arrival scheme.
Eligible visitors may receive either a 14-day visa or a 60-day visa, depending on the category issued.
The ICP clarified that the 14-day visa can be extended once while the holder remains in the UAE. However, the 60-day visa is valid for a single stay and cannot be extended.
Authorities also reminded travellers that they must leave the country upon the expiry of their visa. An overstay fine of Dhs50 per day will apply to individuals who remain in the UAE beyond the authorised period.
The total issuance fee for the 14-day visa is Dhs100, while the total fee for the 60-day visa is Dhs250. https://gulfbusiness.com/en/2026/uae/uae-expands-visa-on-arrival-to-more-countries-list-revealed/