The UAE has broadened its visa‑on‑arrival rules.
On Thursday 25 June 2026, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced that nationals of six additional countries can now obtain a visa on arrival, either for 14 days or 60 days. The move follows a wider effort to make entry and residence more flexible for visitors and skilled professionals, reinforcing the country’s reputation for a streamlined immigration framework.
New nationalities added
Under the updated criteria, citizens of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa join the list of eligible countries. Until now, only Indian nationals had access to the visa‑on‑arrival scheme, so the expansion marks a notable widening of the programme. The amendment also enlarges the pool of qualifying countries of residence, adding Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and Canada to the previously approved United States, European Union member states and the United Kingdom.
Eligibility requires two conditions: the applicant must be a national of one of the listed countries and must hold a valid residence permit issued by any of the approved residence‑country list. By tying eligibility to both nationality and residence status, the policy aims to attract talent and visitors from a broader range of economies while maintaining security standards that the ICP oversees.
Visa fees and conditions
The 14‑day visa costs Dh100 and can be extended once during the stay; the 60‑day visa is priced at Dh250 and is issued as a single‑entry, non‑extendable permit. Travelers must leave the UAE before their authorized stay ends, as an overstay fine of Dh50 per day applies. These fee levels and the clear extension rule are intended to provide transparency for visitors planning short‑term business trips, tourism or family visits.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the expansion reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with friendly nations and fostering humanitarian, economic and cultural partnerships. It highlighted that the change creates wider opportunities for nationals to experience the UAE’s cultural heritage, dynamic economy and world‑recognised infrastructure, reinforcing the country’s position as a leading global destination for talent and skilled professionals. A spokesperson for the Identity and Foreigners Affairs at ICP added that the amendments align with evolving global travel patterns and the UAE’s goal of offering a more adaptable entry system.
Frequently asked questions
What new nationalities are eligible for the UAE visa on arrival as of June 2026?
The UAE visa on arrival now includes citizens of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa.
How much does the 14‑day UAE visa on arrival cost for eligible travelers?
The 14‑day visa costs Dh100 and can be extended once during the stay.
Can the 60‑day UAE visa on arrival be extended?
No, the 60‑day visa is issued as a single‑entry, non‑extendable permit.
What residence‑country criteria must applicants meet for the UAE visa on arrival?
Applicants must hold a valid residence permit from an approved country such as Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, EU member states or the United Kingdom.
