UAE Visa-Free & Visa-on-Arrival Countries List (Updated for 2026) — Know Your Eligibility Before You Apply

Planning a trip to Dubai or any of the seven emirates in 2026? Before you fill any forms, check if your nationality is visa-free or eligible for visa-on-arrival. Knowing your category saves time, cuts costs, and prevents last-minute airport surprises. If you’re not on the visa-exempt lists, we’ve included a clean, step-by-step path to apply through Emirates Transit Visa.

Why Checking UAE Visa-Free Eligibility Matters in 2026

• Saves you the effort of a full visa application if you qualify for visa-free entry.

• Helps you plan trip length correctly (30, 90, or 180-day frameworks).

• Avoids overstay penalties and last-minute itinerary changes.

How the UAE Classifies Visa-Exempt & Visa-on-Arrival Travelers

Category I — Freedom of Movement (GCC Citizens)

Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states enjoy visa-free, unlimited entry.

Category II — 180-Day Multiple-Entry Visa on Arrival

Eligible nationals get a free multiple-entry visa valid for 180 days, with up to 180 days of stay in total within that period.

Category III — 90 Days in Any 180 Days, Multiple-Entry

Eligible nationals receive a multiple-entry visa on arrival that allows up to 90 days of stay within any rolling 180-day period.

Category IV — 30-Day Visa on Arrival

Eligible nationals get a 30-day visa on arrival (generally single entry; renewability varies).

Policy note (2026): Visa privileges can change. Always verify your passport validity (commonly 6+ months), return/onward ticket, and any additional entry conditions before you travel.

Country Lists by Category (2026)

(Spelling normalized; country names in standard international usage.)

Category I Countries

Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia

Category II Countries

Mexico

Category III Countries

Argentina, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Kiribati, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Uruguay

Note: European nationals in this group typically follow the 90/180 rule. If you need more time, you can explore a pre-arranged visa.

Category IV Countries

Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Hong Kong (China), Japan, Kazakhstan, Macao (China), Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, San Marino, Singapore, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, Vatican City

Important Rules, Limits & Fine Print (2026)

• Passport validity: Generally 6+ months from your intended entry date.

• Entry windows: Some visas are valid for entry for a set period (e.g., 30/60 days) from issuance—your stay starts at the entry stamp.

• Multiple-entry math: For Category II/III, track days carefully (e.g., 90 days within any 180 days).

• GCC residents vs GCC citizens: Citizens of GCC states have freedom of movement; residents (non-citizens) should check their own nationality rules.

• Airline conditions: Carriers may ask for return/onward tickets, hotel details, or proof of funds.

Not Eligible? Your Alternatives (Transit & Tourist Options)

• Transit Visa (48 or 96 hours): Perfect for layovers and short stays between flights.

• Tourist Visa (e.g., 30/60/90 days): For longer trips, events, or family visits.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply if You Need a Visa

Documents Checklist

• Passport bio page (clear color scan; 6+ months validity)

• Recent passport photo (white background)

• Confirmed onward/return ticket

• Proof of residence (if living outside your nationality country)

• (If asked) Travel history or prior visas (e.g., UAE/US/UK/CA/AU/NZ)

Application Steps

1. Confirm your category (visa-free / on-arrival / pre-arranged).

2. Choose visa type (Transit 48/96 or Tourist 30/60/90).

3. Complete the online form accurately (names, passport number, dates).

4. Upload documents in color (JPEG/JPG/PDF).

5. Pay securely online.

6. Receive e-visa by email (PDF). Print and carry a copy when you travel.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection

• Black-and-white scans: Always upload color copies.

• Expired/low-validity passports: Renew if under 6 months.

• Wrong category assumption: Don’t rely on hearsay; check your passport’s actual eligibility.

• Incomplete itinerary: Keep onward/return proof handy.

• Mismatched data: Ensure application details match your passport exactly.

Why Apply Through Our Professional Service

• Fast review & file prep: We pre-check every detail to minimize errors.

• Policy-aligned filing: We align your application with the latest 2026 entry rules.

• End-to-end support: From eligibility to approval, with status updates.

• Data security: Your documents are handled via secure workflows.

CTA: Turn your planning into certainty—apply for your Emirates Transit Visa through our website and get it right the first time.

Risks of Unverified Agents & Random Portals

• Hidden fees / scams that cost more than official pathways.

• Incorrect filings leading to delays or refusal.

• Privacy risks from insecure uploads or email handling.

Choose a trusted, professional service to protect your trip and your data.

Apply for Your Emirates Transit Visa

Ready to travel with confidence? Apply for your Emirates Transit Visa now—we’ll verify your eligibility, prepare your file, and deliver your approved e-visa straight to your inbox.