The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has significantly updated its visa exemption policy. Citizens of 87 countries can now enter the UAE without obtaining a visa beforehand, a move designed to boost tourism and ease travel. This expands upon the previous list of 73 eligible countries.
Important Note for Indian Citizens: While the UAE offers visa-free entry to many countries, India is not currently included. Indian citizens still require a visa before traveling to the UAE.
Visa-Free Countries: For the full list of the 87 countries granted visa-free entry.
List of 87 countries
- Albania
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Armenia
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- El Salvador
- Estonia
- Fiji
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Hellenic
- Honduras
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kiribati
- Kosovo
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Nauru
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Oman
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Republic of Ireland
- Romania
- Russia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- San Marino
- Saudi Arabia
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- The Bahamas
- The Netherlands
- UK
- Ukraine
- Uruguay
- US
- Vatican
- Vietnam
GCC Travel: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries enjoy streamlined entry to the UAE. They need only present a GCC state passport or identity card upon arrival.
Indian Visa on Arrival Options: Indian citizens may be eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival if they meet the following criteria:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months
- Have a valid US visit visa, UK/EU residence permit, or a green card
This visa can be extended once for an additional 14 days.
Why the Change? This update simplifies travel for citizens of many countries, aiming to make the UAE an even more attractive destination for tourism and business.