The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has clarified the eligibility rules for its visa-on-arrival programme, which covers citizens of India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa. Eligible travelers holding valid residence permits from selected countries can obtain either a 14-day or 60-day visa upon arrival.
Who Qualifies for the UAE Visa on Arrival?
To qualify, applicants must hold an ordinary passport and possess a valid residence permit issued by one of the following countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, any European Union member state, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, or Singapore. Accompanying family members traveling with eligible applicants are also covered.
Applicants must present a passport valid for at least six months, a recent passport photograph with a white background, and other supporting documents during the application process.
How Does the Application Process Work?
According to GDRFA Dubai, applications are submitted through its digital platforms. Travelers log into the smart services portal, select the visa-on-arrival service, complete the required information, and pay the applicable fee. Successful applicants receive their approved visa via their registered email address. The authority stated that applications are processed within 48 hours, and the online service is available 24/7.
Visa Fees and Duration
The fee for a 14-day visa on arrival is Dh172.50, and it can be extended once for another 14 days. The 60-day visa costs Dh422.50 and cannot be extended. GDRFA Dubai emphasized that the programme is part of the UAE's efforts to simplify travel procedures, attract more international visitors, and strengthen the tourism sector.
Demand for the Programme Grows
The authority disclosed that demand for the programme has continued to increase, with 73,551 visas issued during the first half of 2026 alone. Officials said the visa-on-arrival service is intended to make entry easier for eligible expatriate residents while ensuring compliance with UAE immigration and residency regulations.
In related news, citizens of about 70 countries can enter the UAE without securing a visa before departure, reflecting the country's accessible entry system. Dubai International Airport remains one of the busiest global aviation hubs, supporting travel from destinations worldwide.
