UAE Visa on Arrival Strengthens Access for Six New Countries

On June 25, 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) expanded its visa on arrival program, welcoming nationals from six additional countries: Vietnam, Thailand, South Africa, Kenya, the Philippines, and Indonesia. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, aims to facilitate travel for millions of workers from these nations, enhancing their ability to visit the UAE for work and tourism.

Understanding the UAE Visa on Arrival

The UAE visa on arrival is not a blanket visa-free policy; rather, it allows citizens from specific countries with valid residence permits from developed nations to obtain a visa upon arrival. This approach is based on the premise that if a country like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Japan has vetted an individual for legal residency, the UAE is prepared to extend similar privileges.

Eligible travelers from the newly included countries can apply for either a 14-day or a 60-day visa on arrival. The eligibility criteria also extend to those holding valid residence permits from the United States or any member state of the European Union, as well as from the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada.

The fees for these visas are clearly defined: a 14-day visa costs AED 100, while a 60-day visa is priced at AED 250. The 14-day visa can be extended once during the visitor’s stay, whereas the 60-day visa is issued as a single entry and cannot be renewed. Additionally, there is an overstay fine of AED 50 per day, and travelers must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months from their date of arrival.

Changes in Eligibility Criteria

Previously, only Indian nationals were eligible for the UAE visa on arrival, specifically those holding residence permits from approved developed nations. The recent update not only adds six new nationalities but also expands the list of qualifying residence-permit countries to include Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

This change is significant; for instance, a Filipino nurse residing in Canada or an Indonesian engineer based in Singapore can now travel to the UAE without the need for a pre-trip visa. This streamlining of the process eliminates a historically cumbersome step that often required extensive paperwork, making it easier for individuals to undertake short visits or business trips.

Rationale Behind the Selection of Countries

The selection of these six countries is strategic, reflecting the UAE’s robust economic, diplomatic, and cultural ties. The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs expressed its approval of the initiative, highlighting the strong bilateral relations between the two nations. The UAE is home to approximately 660,000 Filipinos, making it one of the largest overseas Filipino communities globally.

Indonesia, as the most populous Muslim-majority country, is a vital trading partner for the UAE. Thailand and Vietnam are recognized as rapidly growing economies in Southeast Asia, fostering significant investment flows. Kenya serves as the commercial hub of East Africa, while South Africa boasts the continent’s most developed financial and industrial infrastructure.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that this expansion of eligibility reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing economic, cultural, and personal connections with these nations.

Implications for Workers and Visitors

The practical implications of the UAE visa on arrival program extend across various demographics. For tourists, the removal of pre-departure administrative requirements allows for more spontaneous travel, enabling shorter-notice visits. The competitive pricing of the 60-day visa at AED 250 is particularly appealing to business travelers, as it simplifies the process of bringing family members along without the need for separate visas.

Authorities anticipate that this initiative will boost tourism, enhance business travel, attract skilled professionals, and elevate the UAE’s status as a global hub connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. Furthermore, this expansion aligns with ongoing visa reforms in the UAE, including the Golden Visa and Green Visa programs, which aim to promote economic diversification and international mobility.

Broader Context of Visa Policies

The UAE has already established a visa-free regime for over 120 countries and offers various residency options through its Golden and Green Visa programs, catering to investors, specialists, and entrepreneurs. The introduction of the visa on arrival for foreign-resident nationals serves as a middle ground, encouraging a larger pool of skilled and mobile workers who may not yet qualify for long-term residency.

These amendments reflect a commitment to higher global standards of travel and mobility, catering to a broader audience seeking to visit the UAE. The overall direction indicates a clear move towards a more open and accessible travel environment.

Source: timesofdubai.ae

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Published on 2026-06-26 13:15:00 • By the Editorial Desk