UAE Broadens Visa-on-Arrival Scheme: Citizens of Indonesia, Kenya, Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, and Vietnam Holding Specific Residence Permits Now Qualify for Stays of Up to 60 Days
- Xavi
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 1
Dubai, 30 June 2026 — The United Arab Emirates has significantly broadened its Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) program, granting new eligibility to nationals of six additional countries who hold residence permits from major global economies.
This latest expansion, effective immediately, allows citizens of Indonesia, Kenya, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, and Vietnam holding valid residence permits from Australia, Canada, any European Union country, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, or the United States to enter the UAE for tourism or business stays of up to 60 days.
Key Changes to UAE Visa-on-Arrival Rules
New Eligibility (June 30, 2026 Update) Nationals of the six countries listed above can now benefit from VOA if they possess a residence permit from one of the approved countries. This move is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and family visits while strengthening the UAE’s position as a global hub.
Clarifications and Duration Adjustments (November 2024 Onward)
Nationals of Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States now have a clearly defined stay of 90 days within any 180-day period.
Nationals of Georgia, Maldives, and South Korea are now subject to the same 90 days within 180 days limit.
New Zealand nationals previously limited to 30 days now enjoy the extended 90-day limit within 180 days.
Important Changes for Indian Nationals Under upcoming regulations:
Indian nationals holding only a UK residence visa will no longer qualify for the conditional 14-day VOA.
Indian nationals with a valid U.S. visit visa, Green Card, or EU visit/residence visa will continue to be eligible for the conditional 14-day VOA (extendable by another 14 days).
A new 60-day conditional VOA option for eligible Indian nationals is expected in the near future, with similar eligibility criteria.
Why These Changes Matter
The UAE continues to position itself as one of the world’s most accessible destinations by modernising and expanding its entry policies. These updates are designed to:
Attract more tourists and business travellers from emerging markets.
Simplify entry for residents of key partner countries.
Provide greater clarity and predictability for travellers.
Practical Advice for Travellers
Verify Eligibility: Confirm your nationality and residence permit status before travel.
Carry Documents: Always bring your valid passport and the qualifying residence permit.
Check Validity: Ensure your residence permit from the approved country is still valid at the time of entry.
Plan Extensions: Where applicable, understand the rules for extending your stay within the UAE.
For the latest UAE visa policy updates, Visa-on-Arrival changes, GCC entry rules, and 2026 travel advisories, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/uae
Comments