Can I Visit the UAE as a Tourist?

Yes — the United Arab Emirates is one of the world's most visited destinations, welcoming over 17 million international visitors to Dubai alone in 2024. Whether you're heading to the gleaming skyline of Dubai, the cultural grandeur of Abu Dhabi, or the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE makes entry straightforward for the vast majority of travellers.

GCC citizens (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia) are fully visa-exempt and may enter using their national ID card or passport indefinitely. Over 80 nationalities can enter on a visa on arrival (VOA) with no advance arrangements needed. All other nationalities can apply for a tourist visa through airlines, hotels, travel agents, or a UAE sponsor — or self-apply for the 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa without any sponsor.

Tip: The UAE has seven emirates — Dubai and Abu Dhabi have their own immigration authorities (GDRFA and ICP respectively). Always use the correct authority for your intended emirate when applying. Using the wrong channel means your application will not be processed.

Quick Checklist — Before You Travel to the UAE

Tip: Since December 2025, most 30-day or 60-day tourist and business visit visas can now be extended from within the UAE, fully online through the ICP portal, without needing to exit the country. Apply before your current visa expires.

UAE Visa on Arrival — Who Is Eligible?

Over 80 nationalities receive a UAE visa on arrival — no advance application needed. Simply present your valid passport at any UAE port of entry. The main categories are:

Note: GCC citizens (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia) are fully visa-exempt and do not appear in the above lists. Always confirm current eligibility using the official UAE MOFA visa exemptions tool.

Indian Citizens — Visa on Arrival (Paid, Conditions Apply)

Some Indian passport holders may qualify for a single-entry 14-day visa on arrival if they also hold certain valid visas or residence permits from third countries. Indian passport holders have gained expanded visa-on-arrival eligibility, now covering valid residence permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Singapore, in addition to existing US, UK, and EU visa or Green Card holders.

Qualifying documents (any one of the following, valid for 6+ months and used at least once):

• Valid US visa or Green Card
• Valid UK visa or residence permit (including e-visa)
• Valid EU visa or residence permit (Schengen)
• Valid residence permit from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea

Tip: Indian nationals without a qualifying third-country visa need to apply for a pre-arranged UAE tourist visa through an airline (Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia), hotel, or travel agent. The standard 30-day single-entry tourist visa costs approximately AED 200 plus processing fees.

UAE Tourist Visa Types — Apply in Advance

If you are not eligible for visa on arrival, you can apply for a UAE tourist visa through airlines, hotels, travel agencies, or a UAE sponsor. The UAE also offers a self-sponsored 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa available to all nationalities without needing a local guarantor.

Tip: UAE tourist visas issued by Dubai (GDRFA) and Abu Dhabi (ICP) are separate systems. Always apply through the authority for the emirate you are entering. Overstaying your UAE visa carries a daily fine — apply for an extension online before your visa expires.

Laws, Culture & Useful Links

The UAE is a very safe and cosmopolitan destination with world-class infrastructure, but it is governed by Islamic law and visitors must be aware of local rules:

Official Contacts & Useful Links

Tip: The UAE is home to Dubai — the world's most visited city in 2024 — as well as Abu Dhabi with the stunning Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the adventure destination of Ras Al Khaimah. With 80+ nationalities entering visa-free, there has never been an easier time to explore the Emirates.