UAE Tourist Visa Requirements in 2026: Complete Checklist

Citizens of GCC countries and roughly 70 visa-exempt nations (including the UK, USA, EU, Canada, Australia and Japan) get a free visa-on-arrival. Travellers from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya and most African and South Asian countries must apply for a UAE tourist visa before flying.

If you are unsure whether you qualify for visa-on-arrival, our nationality checker can confirm in under 30 seconds. When in doubt, apply online — it's faster than risking refusal at the airport.

1. Coloured scan of your passport bio page — valid at least 6 months from your arrival date.

2. Recent passport-style photo — white background, 600×600 px minimum, no glasses, no headwear (unless religious).

3. Confirmed return flight ticket or itinerary.

4. Hotel booking confirmation or host invitation letter with Emirates ID copy.

5. Bank statement of the last 3 months (some nationalities only).

All documents are uploaded directly through our secure portal — JPG, PNG or PDF, max 10 MB each.

The UAE GDRFA rejects roughly 8% of applications because of poor photos. The rules are strict: clear face, neutral expression, both ears visible, plain white background, no shadows, no filters.

If you don't have a studio photo, take a selfie in good daylight against a white wall — our AI photo checker will tell you instantly if it passes.

Step 1 — Choose your visa: 14, 30 or 60 days. Single or multi-entry.

Step 2 — Fill the 4-step online form (5 minutes).

Step 3 — Upload passport and photo.

Step 4 — Pay securely. Card, Apple Pay or local methods.

Step 5 — Receive your e-visa by email in 24 to 72 hours. Print or save to phone wallet.