VISA AND CUSTOMS REGULATIONS

Travel tips

When planning your trip to Abu Dhabi, it’s important to check whether you need a visa to enter the UAE or if your passport alone will suffice without requiring an Abu Dhabi-specific visa.

Visa-free entry

Holders of passports from Schengen countries, including the Netherlands, Belgium, and others, do not require a visa to visit Abu Dhabi or any other emirate of the United Arab Emirates. Upon arrival, a free visa is stamped into your passport, which is valid for 60 days and can be renewed once.

Multiple entry visa

This visa also allows for multiple entries, enabling you to visit the UAE multiple times for a total of 90 days within a six-month period. For more information, visit the Emirates website.

1. Verification of visa requirements

For citizens of the EU, USA, and many other countries

  1. Visa on arrival
    Citizens from most European countries, the USA, Canada, Australia, and many other nations can obtain a visa on arrival in Abu Dhabi. This visa is generally valid for 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days.
  2. Required documents
    • A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
    • Important note: As of October 2023, passports must display both the day and month of the holder’s date of birth. Travelers whose passports lack this information may face difficulties leaving the UAE. Be sure to check your passport in advance to avoid any issues.

For citizens of other countries

  1. Prior visa
    Travelers from certain countries are required to apply for a visa before arriving in Abu Dhabi. This can be done either online or through the UAE embassy or consulate in their home country.
  2. Types of visas
    • Tourist visa: Ideal for vacation purposes.
    • Visitor visa: For visiting family or friends.
    • Business visa: Suitable for work-related travel.

    The duration of these visas varies depending on the purpose of the trip and the type of visa issued.

2. Online visa application

E-Visa overview

The UAE offers an electronic visa (e-Visa) option for eligible visitors from certain countries. Applications can be completed through the official UAE government website or authorized travel agencies.

Required documents for an E-visa

  • Scanned copy of valid passport: Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date.
  • Passport-size photo: Must meet specific size and quality requirements.
  • Return ticket: Proof of your departure from the UAE.
  • Accommodation proof: Hotel reservation confirmation or a letter of invitation from a UAE resident.

How to obtain an E-visa for Abu Dhabi

  1. Research visa types
    Learn about the various types of visas available (e.g., tourist, business, or visit visas) and confirm whether you are eligible for an e-Visa. The official UAE government website or authorized visa providers such as Action Visas can guide you.
  2. Prepare required documents
    Gather and scan all necessary documents, including your passport, a recent photo, and proof of travel arrangements.
  3. Submit your application
    Complete the online visa application form by uploading your documents and providing all required details through the designated portal.
  4. Pay the visa fees
    Use a secure online payment method to pay the applicable visa fees.
  5. Receive your E-visa
    Once your application is processed and approved, your e-Visa will be emailed to you. This typically takes a few business days.

E-Visa details

  • Duration: Electronic visas are available for various durations, up to 2 years for specific categories like work visas.
  • Validity for entry: E-visas are valid for 60 days from the date of issue for entry into the UAE.
  • Single or multiple entry: Choose between single-entry or multiple-entry options depending on your travel needs.

By following this streamlined online process, obtaining an e-Visa for Abu Dhabi is convenient and efficient, allowing you to focus on planning your trip to this captivating destination.

For more details on the procedure and to start your application, you can visit the Action Visas website here.

3. Passport

  • Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your planned entry into Abu Dhabi.
  • Blank pages: Make sure you have at least one blank page in your passport for entry and exit stamps.

If you are not a national of the Netherlands, Belgium or another EU country, and do not reside in these countries, you should contact the UAE embassy or consulate in your country to check visa requirements for Abu Dhabi. This includes the necessary checks for a stopover in Abu Dhabi. It is often necessary to go in person to the embassy or consulate to apply for a visa.

For detailed information on visa requirements, contact the UAE embassy or visit their website.

Residents of the countries specified below benefit from a “Visa on arrival” without the need for a prior visa, allowing them to enter the United Arab Emirates on arrival at the airport.

  • Andorra
  • Hong Kong
  • Poland
  • Australia
  • Hungary
  • Portugal
  • Austria
  • Iceland
  • Romania
  • Belgium
  • Ireland
  • San Marino
  • Brunei
  • Italy
  • Singapore
  • Bulgaria
  • Japan
  • Slovakia
  • Canada
  • Latvia
  • Slovenia
  • Croatia
  • Liechtenstein
  • South Korea
  • Cyprus
  • Lithuania
  • Spain
  • Czech Republic
  • Luxembourg
  • Sweden
  • Denmark
  • Malaysia
  • Switzerland
  • Estonia
  • Malta
  • United Kingdom
  • Finland
  • Monaco
  • United States of America
  • France
  • Netherlands
  • Vatican City
  • Germany
  • New Zealand
  • Greece
  • Norway

4. Useful tips

  • Planning: Start your visa application process well in advance of your planned departure date, especially if you need to obtain a visa before arrival.
  • Travel insurance: We recommend taking out travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, cancellations and lost luggage.
  • Respect for local laws: The UAE has strict rules on drugs, alcohol and public behavior. Make sure you know about these laws before you leave.

5. Useful resources

  • Official UAE government website for detailed information on visa types and requirements.
  • UAE consulates or embassies in your country for specific procedures and support.

By following this guide, you’ll be well prepared for your trip to Abu Dhabi, ensuring that all legal aspects concerning your entry and stay in the country are covered.

Customs rules

You can find all the information you need about customs regulations here