The UAE has announced a significant expansion of its visa on arrival scheme, making it easier for thousands of eligible international travelers to enter the country without having to apply for a visa in advance. The move, announced by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), expands the list of travelers who can benefit from visa on arrival facilities and is part of the country’s wider strategy to enhance tourism, business travel and global connectivity.The updated regulations, which took effect on June 25, allow eligible travelers holding Indian and Philippine passports to obtain a visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa, residence permit or green card issued by one of several approved countries. UAE authorities said the changes reflected the country’s commitment to promoting international mobility while cementing its position as one of the world’s leading tourism, investment and business destinations.
UAE visa on arrival Rules: Who is eligible?
The biggest change affects Indian nationals holding ordinary passports. Previously, only those holding a valid visa, residence permit or green card from the United States, the United Kingdom or an EU member state were eligible to obtain a UAE visa on arrival. Under the expanded policy, eligibility is now extended to travelers holding valid visas or residence permits issued by Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore and South Korea.The same expansion was practiced by Filipino nationals. They can now get a UAE visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa, residence permit or green card from the United States, EU countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore or South Korea. Officials said the broader eligibility criteria are intended to streamline travel procedures while strengthening ties with key international markets.The initiative aims to “facilitate travel to the UAE” and enhance the country’s appeal as a global destination for tourists, investors and business professionals, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
UAE visa fees
Eligible travelers arriving under the revised scheme can choose between two visa options depending on the length of their visit. The standard visa on arrival allows tourists to stay in the UAE for 14 days and is issued for AED 100. Those wishing to stay in the country longer can extend their visa for a further 14 days for an additional Dh250.For tourists planning long-distance travel, the UAE has also introduced a 60-day visa on arrival option priced at AED 250. Unlike shorter visas, this option cannot be extended and is suitable for travelers who already know they need to stay longer. Immigration authorities will issue a visa after verifying the traveler’s passport and an eligible foreign visa, residence permit or green card.
UAE expands visa policy
The latest changes are part of the UAE’s wider vision to position itself as one of the most connected and tourist-friendly countries in the world. The government has introduced a series of immigration reforms over the past few years, including a long-term residency scheme, expanded golden visa categories and more flexible tourist visa options, all aimed at attracting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, investors and international visitors.According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the expanded visa on arrival program supports the country’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships while providing faster and more convenient travel for eligible travelers. Officials believe the changes will encourage more tourism, boost business travel and strengthen the UAE’s role as a global aviation and business hub connecting Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
What travelers should know
Although the process has become simpler, travelers must still ensure that they meet all eligibility requirements before departing for the UAE. Their passport must be valid and an eligible visa, residence permit or green card issued by one of the approved countries must also remain valid while traveling. Standard immigration checks will continue to be carried out at UAE entry points before a visa is issued on arrival.With this latest expansion, the UAE has once again demonstrated its commitment to making international travel smoother while supporting tourism and economic growth. For eligible travelers from India and the Philippines, the revised rules provide greater flexibility, faster entry procedures and the option to stay in the UAE for up to 60 days without the need to obtain a visa before departure.
