UAE visa: visa-free, eVisa & requirements for Dubai & Abu Dhabi in 2026
Last reviewed 12 July 2026 · Source: UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)Entry to the United Arab Emirates — including Dubai and Abu Dhabi — depends on your nationality. Many passports receive a free visa on arrival, some are fully visa-exempt for short stays, and the rest apply for a tourist eVisa in advance. This guide explains which category you fall into and how to apply through official channels.
At a glance
- Visa on arrival
- Many nationalities, 30 or 90 days
- Tourist eVisa
- For non-VOA nationalities
- Typical stay
- 30 or 60 days (extendable)
- Entries
- Single or multiple
- Processing
- Usually 2–5 business days
- Passport validity
- 6 months on entry
- Apply via
- Airline / official UAE channels (ICP, GDRFA)
Which route applies to you
- Visa on arrival (free) — citizens of the US, UK, EU/Schengen, Canada, Australia, and many others receive a free entry stamp for 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality.
- Visa-exempt (GCC and special arrangements) — Gulf Cooperation Council citizens and some others enter freely.
- Pre-arranged eVisa — nationalities not eligible for visa on arrival apply in advance, usually sponsored by an airline, hotel, or UAE-based host, or through the official government portal.
Tourist eVisa options & fees
The UAE offers several tourist visa durations. Fees vary by length and number of entries, so confirm the current price for your chosen option at checkout.
| Option | Stay | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (eligible nationalities) | 30 or 90 days | Free |
| Tourist eVisa (single entry) | 30 or 60 days | Varies |
| Tourist eVisa (multiple entry) | Multiple visits | Higher |
Requirements
- A passport valid for at least six months from entry.
- A digital passport photo and passport scan (for eVisa).
- A confirmed return ticket and hotel booking.
- A sponsor where required (airline, hotel or UAE host) for the eVisa.
How to apply for the eVisa
- Check whether your nationality gets visa on arrival — if so, you need nothing in advance.
- If not, apply through your airline’s visa service, your hotel, or the official UAE government portal/app (ICP or GDRFA for Dubai).
- Upload your passport and photo and pay the fee for your chosen duration.
- Receive the eVisa by email within a few business days.
- Carry a printout with your passport.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
Many nationalities get a free visa on arrival for 30 or 90 days. If yours doesn’t, you apply for an eVisa in advance.
How much is the UAE tourist eVisa?
It depends on the duration and entries. Confirm the price for your option through official channels.
Can I extend my stay?
Many tourist visas can be extended once or twice for a fee without exiting the country.
Is Dubai a separate visa from the UAE?
No. Dubai is one of the seven emirates; a UAE visit visa covers the whole country, though Dubai’s GDRFA is one of the issuing authorities.
What are the local rules?
Respect local laws and dress codes; alcohol is regulated and available in licensed venues. Behaviour that is legal elsewhere may not be in the UAE.
← Back to all destinations · Related: Saudi Arabia eVisa, Egypt eVisa, visa on arrival, how eVisas work.