Citizens of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa residing abroad can now obtain a UAE visa on arrival.

DUBAI,— The United Arab Emirates has widened its visa on arrival scheme to cover nationals from six countries together with their accompanying family members, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Friday.

The updated policy applies to citizens of Indonesia, Viet Nam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa holding ordinary passports, who may receive a 14 day or 60 day visa on arrival if they possess valid residence permits from the United States, a European Union member state, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand or Canada.

The measure underscores the country’s flexible entry system and aims to support smooth travel experiences.

Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the expansion is intended to strengthen ties with friendly nations and deepen economic, cultural and people to people connections.

The initiative also enables visitors from the listed countries to access the UAE’s cultural environment, tourism sector, economic opportunities, business climate and infrastructure development.

The ministry said it will continue working with national agencies to simplify travel procedures and reinforce the UAE’s status as a destination for business, investment, entrepreneurship and talent.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security ICP said the changes are part of ongoing efforts to develop the visa system, broaden eligibility, and align services with international best practices in travel, tourism and mobility.

It added the updates support cooperation with partner countries and enhance the UAE’s competitiveness in global rankings for residency, tourism and travel.

The ICP clarified that applicants and their family members must be nationals of the six eligible countries and hold valid residence permits issued by the United States, European Union member state, United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand or Canada.

The visa is granted for either 14 day or 60 day periods depending on category.

The authority said the 14 day visa can be extended once within the UAE, while the 60 day visa is issued as a single stay and cannot be extended. After expiry travelers must depart the country.

An overstay penalty of AED50 per day applies beyond the allowed period. The issuance fee for the 14 day visa is AED 100, while the 60 day visa costs AED 250.

In April 2026, the United Arab Emirates announced the introduction of digital bank account opening services for non-resident visitors under the Tourist Identity initiative.

(With files from UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

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