UAE Expands Visa-On-Arrival Access For Citizens Of 6 More Countries From July 25

The UAE has confirmed that citizens from six additional countries will soon be able to benefit from its visa-on-arrival programme. Starting July 25, eligible travellers from Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa can receive a visa on arrival when entering the UAE, provided they meet specific residency requirements.

The move is expected to make travel to the Emirates easier for thousands of visitors while supporting tourism, business travel, and family visits.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Social Kandura Media (@socialkandura)

UAE Adds Six New Countries To Its Visa-On-Arrival Programme

Travelling to the UAE is about to become more convenient for eligible visitors from six countries.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has announced that citizens of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa will be added to the country’s visa-on-arrival programme from July 25.

The initiative is part of the UAE’s continued efforts to simplify entry procedures and strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading travel and business destinations.

For travellers who frequently visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates for work, holidays, or family visits, the new policy could remove the need to arrange a visa before departure.

Who Can Benefit From The New Rules?

The new visa-on-arrival facility is not available to all passport holders automatically.

To qualify, travellers must hold a valid passport from one of the six newly added countries and also have a valid residency permit from one of the following destinations:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• European Union countries
• Singapore
• Japan
• South Korea
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Canada

The benefit also extends to accompanying family members travelling with the eligible visitor.

This approach follows the UAE’s existing visa policy for several nationalities where residency status in selected countries allows easier entry into the Emirates.

What Visa Options Will Be Available?

Eligible travellers can choose between two visa-on-arrival options depending on the length of their stay.

14-Day Visa

Visitors can obtain a 14-day visa on arrival for AED 100. This visa can be extended once while inside the UAE.

This option is expected to suit tourists planning short holidays, business visitors attending meetings, and those visiting friends or family.

60-Day Visa

Travellers looking for a longer stay can choose a 60-day visa on arrival for AED 250.

Unlike the shorter visa, this option cannot be extended after arrival.

Authorities have also confirmed that visitors who remain in the UAE after their visa expires will be subject to an overstay fine of AED 50 per day.

How The New Policy Could Boost Visitor Numbers?

The latest expansion reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to make travel more accessible while strengthening its global connections.

Tourism remains a key pillar of the country’s economy, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which continue to attract millions of visitors every year. Easier entry requirements can encourage more leisure travellers, business visitors, investors, and families to choose the UAE as a destination.

The move also supports broader economic goals by helping airlines, hotels, restaurants, retail businesses, and event organisers benefit from increased visitor numbers.

Over the past few years, the UAE has introduced several visa reforms aimed at attracting talent, investment, and tourism. The latest update is another step in that direction.

Easier Family Visits Could Be One Major Advantage

For many UAE residents, especially those with friends, relatives, or business connections in the six eligible countries, the new rules could make travel planning much simpler.

Instead of applying for a visa in advance, qualifying visitors will be able to complete the process upon arrival, making spontaneous trips and family visits easier to arrange.

For businesses operating across Africa and Southeast Asia, the policy may also help improve travel flexibility for partners, clients, and investors visiting the UAE.

FAQ’s

Q: Which countries have been added to the UAE visa-on-arrival programme?

A: Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa will become eligible from July 25, 2026.

Q: Do travellers still need to meet additional requirements?

A: Yes. Travellers must also hold a valid residence permit from countries such as the US, UK, EU nations, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, or South Korea.

Q: How much does the visa on arrival cost?

A: A 14-day visa costs AED 100, while a 60-day visa costs AED 250.

Q: Can the 60-day visa be extended?

A: No. The 60-day visa-on-arrival option cannot be extended.

Q: What happens if someone overstays?

A: Visitors who stay beyond the validity of their visa will be charged AED 50 per day as an overstay fine.

The UAE’s decision to extend visa-on-arrival access to six more countries is expected to make travel smoother for eligible visitors while supporting tourism, business activity, and international connectivity. As the Emirates continues to update its visa system, travellers can expect more convenient entry options in the years ahead.

Follow Social Kandura for more updates on local news and things to do in Dubai and across the UAE.

Read More

• UAE’s New Rules in 2026: Visa Changes, Business Laws, Traffic Updates and More
• Indian Passport, Visa & Attestation Services In UAE To Pause For 5 Days From June 26
• Affected by Flight Cancellations? UAE Announces New 30-Day Visa Grace Period