The UAE has expanded its visa-on-arrival programme to cover nationals of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa, along with their accompanying family members.
The new arrangement applies to ordinary passport holders from those six countries who already hold a valid residence permit issued by the United States, any European Union member state, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced the change, framing it as part of the UAE’s broader effort to strengthen bilateral ties and increase people-to-people connections with partner countries.
Two visa options are available: a 14-day visa priced at AED 100, and a 60-day visa at AED 250. The 14-day visa may be extended once during the holder’s stay in the UAE; the 60-day visa is issued for a single stay and cannot be extended. Both require departure upon expiry. Overstays attract a fine of AED 50 per day.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security said the amendments are designed to broaden the visa framework’s scope and align it with international standards in travel and mobility. The authority added that the decision supports the UAE’s standing in global competitiveness rankings related to residency and tourism.
The Ministry noted it will continue coordinating with relevant national authorities to streamline consular procedures and consolidate the UAE’s position as a destination for business, investment, and talent.
