The UAE has unveiled a major expansion of its visa-on-arrival programme, making it easier for thousands of eligible international travellers to enter the country without applying for a visa in advance. The move, announced by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), broadens the list of travellers who can benefit from visa-on-arrival facilities and forms part of the country’s wider strategy to strengthen tourism, business travel and global connectivity.The updated rules, which came into effect on June 25, allow eligible travellers holding passports from India and the Philippines to obtain a visa on arrival if they possess a valid visa, residence permit or Green Card issued by one of several approved countries. UAE authorities said the changes reflect the country’s commitment to facilitating international mobility while reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading destinations for tourism, investment and business.
UAE visa-on-arrival rules: Who is eligible?
The biggest change affects Indian nationals holding ordinary passports. Previously, they were eligible for a UAE visa on arrival only if they held a valid visa, residence permit or Green Card from the United States, the United Kingdom or a European Union member state. Under the expanded policy, eligibility has now been extended to include travellers with valid visas or residence permits issued by Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore and the Republic of Korea (South Korea).The same expansion has also been introduced for Filipino nationals. They can now obtain a UAE visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa, residence permit or Green Card from the United States, European Union countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore or South Korea. Officials said the broader eligibility criteria are designed to simplify travel procedures while strengthening ties with key international markets.In its announcement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the initiative aims to “facilitate travel to the UAE” and enhance the country’s attractiveness as a global destination for visitors, investors and business professionals.
UAE visa fees
Eligible travellers arriving under the revised programme can choose between two visa options depending on the length of their visit. The standard visa on arrival allows visitors to stay in the UAE for 14 days and is issued for a fee of Dh100. Those wishing to remain in the country longer can extend this visa once for another 14 days by paying an additional Dh250.For visitors planning an extended trip, the UAE has also introduced a 60-day visa-on-arrival option, available for Dh250. Unlike the shorter visa, this option cannot be extended and is intended for travellers who already know they will require a longer stay. Immigration authorities will issue the visa after verifying the traveller’s passport together with the qualifying foreign visa, residence permit or Green Card.
UAE’s expanded visa policy
The latest changes form part of the UAE’s broader vision to position itself as one of the world’s most connected and visitor-friendly countries. Over the past few years, the government has introduced a series of immigration reforms, including long-term residency schemes, 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 programme supports the country’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships while making travel faster and more convenient for eligible passengers. Officials believe the changes will encourage more tourism, facilitate business travel and reinforce the UAE’s role as a global aviation and commercial hub connecting Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
What travellers should know
Although the process has become simpler, travellers must still ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before departing for the UAE. Their passport must be valid, and the qualifying visa, residence permit or Green Card issued by one of the approved countries must also remain valid at the time of travel. Standard immigration checks will continue at UAE entry points before a visa on arrival is issued.With the latest expansion, the UAE has once again demonstrated its focus on making international travel more seamless while supporting tourism and economic growth. For eligible Indian and Filipino travellers, the revised rules provide greater flexibility, quicker entry procedures and the option to stay in the Emirates for up to 60 days without the need to obtain a visa before departure.
