Independent guidance: We are not the UAE Government, GDRFA Dubai, ICP or an airline. We do not issue visas or guarantee approval.

Dubai Visa Process

Visa types

Dubai visa on arrival: eligibility and checks

Some passport holders can obtain entry permission on arrival, while other travellers qualify only if they hold specified, valid visas or residence documents. The rule must be matched to the passport you will present - not just where you live.

Applies toShort visits potentially eligible on arrival
Last verified3 September 2026
Review due3 October 2026

This page does not cover: a static worldwide eligibility list. Official nationality and conditional-document rules can change.

What to verify

  • The exact passport category, including whether it is ordinary, diplomatic, service or another travel document.
  • The permitted stay and whether days are calculated per visit or within a rolling period.
  • Required passport validity on arrival.
  • Whether a conditional visa/residence document must remain valid for a minimum period.
  • Fees, extension rules and whether multiple entry is allowed.
  • Whether the rule covers tourism only or another purpose.

Arrival permission is still border control

Eligibility for a visa or entry permission on arrival does not remove immigration checks or guarantee entry. Carry the evidence the official rule requires, answer questions accurately and make sure the passport used matches the eligibility you checked.

Avoid screenshots of undated third-party country lists. Use a current official or operating-carrier source immediately before travel.

If your case is conditional

  1. Open the official rule and identify each condition separately.
  2. Check the expiry of the passport and the qualifying visa/residence document against the travel date.
  3. Confirm that your exact document type and issuing country are named.
  4. Ask the operating airline and UAE authority if the wording is unclear.
  5. Arrange advance permission instead if the official channel says the exception does not apply.

Related guidance

Check your broad route UK passport guidance Indian passport guidance Prearranged tourist visa

Official sources checked

Open the source that applies to your situation before booking or applying. Links can change without notice.

Review and corrections

Published and independently compiled by Dubai Visa Process. Last evidence review: 3 September 2026. Rules can change between reviews.

Found a problem? See our correction process and report it.