Emirates Visa on Arrival 2026: Eligibility, Countries, and Complete Guide to Apply
Kapil Saini 13-Dec-2025 0 Comments
Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates in 2026? The Emirates Visa-on-Arrival allows eligible travelers to enter the Emirates quickly without applying in advance, making it ideal for tourists, business visitors, and short-term travelers. Visa durations range from 14 to 30 days, with some cases allowing extensions up to 90 days. Eligible nationals include citizens from the UK, USA, EU countries, India (with valid US/UK/EU visas), and other approved countries.
Visas are issued directly at major Emirates airports like Dubai International (DXB), Abu Dhabi International (AUH), and Sharjah International (SHJ). You can check thelist of emirates international airports to plan your entry smoothly. Knowing the right airport and procedures helps families, business visa for business visits, and solo tourists navigate immigration easily.
This guide covers eligibility, required documents, airport procedures, and tips to avoid common travel issues, ensuring your 2026 trip to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other Emirate is safe, smooth, and stress-free.
What is the Emirates Visa on Arrival?
A visa on arrival lets travelers receive and check an entry permit at list of emirates airports upon landing. It’s issued by immigration officials after verifying eligibility and documents, allowing entry for tourism, meetings, or leisure.
Visa on Arrival vs E-Visa: Key Differences
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Visa on Arrival: Issued directly at the airport for eligible nationalities; quick and convenient.
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E-Visa: Applied for online before departure; processed electronically and sent via email.
While both options grant legal entry, the visa on arrival offers flexibility for spontaneous travelers.
Who Is Eligible for an Emirates Visa on Arrival?
Citizens of Visa-on-Arrival Countries
Nationals of several countries can obtain an Emirates visa on arrival for either 30 days or 90 days, depending on bilateral agreements. These include countries across Europe, North America, Oceania, and parts of Asia.
Special Eligibility for Indian Nationals and Residents of Certain Countries
with a valid residence permit or visa from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, or Singapore are eligible for a 14-day or 30-day Emirates visa on arrival. The residence permit must be valid for at least six months.
GCC Residents and Other Special Cases
Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council GCC nations can enter the Emirates with minimal formalities. Many GCC residents and nationals receive visa-free or on-arrival entry for up to 30 days.
Emirates Visa on Arrival Countries List (2026 Update)
30-Day Visa on Arrival Countries
Travelers from Andorra, Brunei, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, and Vatican City typically receive a 30-day Emirates visa on arrival.
90-Day Visa on Arrival Countries
Citizens of many European Union nations, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand often receive a 90-day visa on arrival for tourism or short business visits.
Restricted or Suspended Countries
As of 2026, certain countries may have temporary travel restrictions for visa issuance. Travelers from restricted regions must check the latest emirates immigration announcements before booking.
Requirements and Documents for Emirates Visa on Arrival
To obtain an Emirates Visa on Arrival, travelers must meet specific emirates visa requirements and provide the necessary documents. Ensure your passport and travel papers are valid to enjoy a smooth entry at major Emirates airports.
Passport Validity and Eligibility Criteria
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Passport must be valid for at least six months.
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Must hold an ordinary passport (not temporary or diplomatic, unless eligible).
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For Indian travelers, a valid residence permit from approved countries is required.
Supporting Documents Required
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Confirmed return or onward ticket.
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Proof of accommodation or hotel booking.
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Proof of sufficient funds for the stay.
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Travel insurance (recommended but not always mandatory).
Airport Procedure at Emirates & Abu Dhabi
Upon visa on arrival at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), approach the immigration counter, present your documents, pay the applicable fee (if required), and receive your entry stamp.
Emirates Visa on Arrival Process at Airport
Step-by-Step Airport Process
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Land at the Emirates airport (Emirates or Abu Dhabi).
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Proceed to the immigration or visa-on-arrival counter.
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Submit passport and supporting documents.
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Pay the visa fee, if applicable.
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Receive the entry stamp and proceed to customs.
Fees and Payment
Visa-on-arrival fees depend on nationality and duration. Some countries enjoy free entry, while others pay a fee ranging from AED 100 to AED 300.
Duration and Validity of Stay
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Most travelers get a 30-day stay, extendable once.
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Some nationalities receive 90-day multiple-entry permissions.
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Validity begins on the date of arrival.
Emirates Visa on Arrival Cost, Duration & Validity
Cost Overview
While many travelers qualify for free entry, those required to pay can do so directly at immigration counters using cash or card. Prices vary based on nationality.
Typical Stay Durations (30/90 Days)
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30-Days: Common for Asian and some European nations.
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90 Days: Granted to countries with stronger bilateral relations.
Validity and Entry Types
Most visas on arrival are single-entry, though some countries have multiple-entry arrangements allowing re-entry during the validity period.
Extension & Renewal of Emirates Visa on Arrival
Airport-to-Airport Visa ExtensionTravelers entering the Emirates on a Visa-on-Arrival can enjoy additional flexibility with 30-day A2a extension or 60-day A2a extension, allowing you to extend your stay directly at major airports This option is fast but slightly more expensive due to flight costs.
| Visa Type | Visa Validity | Stay Validity | Processing Time | Visa Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates Regular Visa (30 Days A2A) | 30 Days | 30 Days | 24–72 Hours | 450 |
| Emirates Urgent Visa (30 Days A2A) | 30 Days | 30 Days | 04–24 Hours | 470 |
| Emirates Regular Visa (60 Days A2A) | 60 Days | 60 Days | 24–72 Hours | 550 |
| Emirates Urgent Visa (60 Days A2A) | 60 Days | 60 Days | 04–24 Hours | 570 |
Bus-to-Bus (Land) Change
The bus-to-bus method involves exiting the Emirates by land to a nearby Gulf country, then returning with a new visa on arrival. It’s often more economical and widely used by budget travelers.
Benefits of Renewing Through Our Service
Stay longer in the Emirates without any hassle with our renewing service. Whether you’re looking for a 30-day or 60-day airport-to-airport (A2A) extension or a bus-to-bus (B2B) option, we handle everything smoothly—no need to leave the country or deal with complex paperwork.
Even if it’s your first time with us, our expert team ensures your visa extension is processed quickly, safely, and fully in compliance, giving you peace of mind and a stress-free Emirates stay
Why Use Our Professional Service for Your Emirates Visa on Arrival
Common Risks of Unofficial Methods
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Travelers arrive assuming eligibility but face entry refusal.
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Hidden charges or last-minute rule changes cause delays.
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Overstays lead to fines or travel bans.
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Fraudulent agents misguide applicants.
Advantages of Applying Through Our Website
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Instant eligibility verification for your nationality.
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Accurate fee information and transparent pricing.
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Quick processing and real-time support.
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Assistance with visa renewal or extension while inside the Emirates.
Call to Action: Apply for Your Emirates Visa
Travel with confidence and save time at immigration. apply for your emirates visa on arrival today through our website for a fast, secure, and reliable experience.
Conclusion
The Emirates visa on arrival simplifies travel for millions of visitors every year. With clear eligibility rules, straightforward airport procedures, and flexible extension options, entering the Emirates has never been easier.
For the most reliable experience, choose a professional service that ensures compliance, timely processing, and peace of mind. Apply now for your Emirates Visa on Arrival and explore Emirates, Abu Dhabi, and the rest of the Emirates with complete confidence.
Our Faqs
Explore our FAQ section to find swift answers to your queries. Uncomplicate your journey by staying informed with our comprehensive guide."
An Emirates Visa on Arrival allows eligible travelers to enter the UAE without applying for a visa in advance. Citizens of the USA, UK, EU countries, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and selected nationalities are eligible, while Indian passport holders may qualify with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa.
During New Year and holiday seasons, Visa on Arrival offers fast entry, no pre-application stress, and flexibility for last-minute travel plans to Emirates and other Emirates.
Yes, Emirates immigration services operate 24/7, and Visa on Arrival is available regardless of arrival time.
Yes, Visa on Arrival can be used for short-term business visits, meetings, conferences, and exhibitions, provided the stay duration complies with visa conditions.
The Emirates Visa on Arrival is one of the fastest Emirates entry options due to minimal paperwork, on-spot approval, and no embassy visit, making it ideal for tourists, families, and business travelers.
Yes, families can travel together under visa on arrival, but each traveler, including children, must individually meet eligibility and passport validity requirements.
If documents are missing or invalid, Emirates immigration authorities may delay entry or deny visa issuance. It is strongly recommended to verify Emirates visa requirements before departure.
Visa on Arrival is issued at major Emirates international airports, including Dubai International Airport (DXB), Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), Sharjah International Airport (SHJ), and other approved entry points.
During peak periods such as December–January, immigration queues may be longer. Arriving with complete documents and early landing times helps ensure smoother entry.
This is a stressful real-life situation. Emirates immigration evaluates each passport individually, and even family members traveling together may be treated separately, which can result in entry refusal for one traveler while others are allowed.
This happens very often. Visa on Arrival remains available 24/7, but system verification delays after midnight or during shift changes can slow processing, causing long waits at immigration despite having complete documents.
In most cases, the visa on arrival process takes 10 to 30 minutes, provided all required documents are valid and complete.
The eligibility criteria remain the same across the Emirates; however, verification at Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) may be slightly stricter compared to emirates during peak travel periods.
Yes, one of the key benefits in 2026 is flexibility, allowing travelers to plan spontaneous trips, attend events, or extend their stay if required.
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