Am I Eligible for Visa on Arrival in Dubai 2026

Quick answer

Most travellers from 87 countries receive a free 30-day visa on arrival in Dubai. Your passport must be valid for at least six months, and you need a confirmed onward ticket and proof of accommodation. If your nationality is not on the list, you must apply for a visa in advance via ICP or an airline.

Who qualifies for visa on arrival in 2026?

The UAE government updates the eligible list each year. As of 2026, citizens of the following countries can receive a 30-day visa on arrival, extendable once for another 30 days:

• European Union (all 27 member states)
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Japan
• South Korea
• Russia
• India (with conditions – see below)

India: Indian passport holders who hold a valid residence visa from the US, UK, or EU, or who hold a valid US, UK, Schengen, or Japan visa can enter visa-free for 30 days. The residence visa must have at least six months validity.

Documents you must show at immigration

Immigration officers at DXB, DWC, and Sharjah airports are strict. Carry printed or digital copies of:

• Passport valid for six months beyond your arrival date
• Confirmed return or onward ticket (within 30 days)
• Hotel booking or host address in the UAE
• Proof of sufficient funds (cash, credit card, or bank statement) – no fixed amount is published, but AED 3,000 is the typical benchmark

Step-by-step: clearing immigration with visa on arrival

1. Scan your passport at the e-gates if you are eligible; otherwise join the visa-on-arrival queue.
2. Present your passport to the immigration officer.
3. Pay the fee if required (most nationalities pay nothing for the first 30 days).
4. Receive the entry stamp and 30-day visa sticker in your passport.
5. Collect baggage and exit through customs.

Common mistakes that can get you refused

• Passport validity less than six months – the most frequent refusal reason.
• No proof of onward travel – officers may ask to see the ticket on your phone.
• Booking only a one-way ticket – always show a return or onward flight.
• Hotel booking under a different name – match the name exactly to your passport.
• Expired residence visa from another country – Indian citizens especially must check expiry dates.

Visa on arrival fees and extensions in 2026

The 30-day visa on arrival is free for eligible nationalities. If you need to stay longer:

• 30-day extension: AED 600, applied online via ICP or at Amer centres.
• 60-day tourist visa (applied in advance): AED 300 + insurance.
• Multiple-entry 60-day visa: AED 600, valid for six months.

Verify current fees with ICP before travel, as charges can change.

Nationalities that must apply before travel

If your country is not listed above, you need a visa before departure. Options include:

• Visa sponsored by a UAE hotel or tour operator (AED 300–500).
• Transit visa if you have a confirmed onward flight within 96 hours (AED 50–150).
• Visa from ICP app or website, processed in 2–5 working days.

Tips for smooth arrival at Dubai airports

• Download the ICA UAE app and complete the immigration declaration before landing.
• Keep digital and paper copies of all documents.
• If travelling with family, ensure every passport meets the six-month rule.
• Check your airline app the day before – some carriers block boarding if visa requirements are unmet.
• Arrive at the airport at least three hours early during peak seasons (December–March).

Key takeaway

Double-check your nationality against the official 87-country list, confirm six-month passport validity, and carry proof of onward travel. Do this and you will sail through Dubai immigration with a free 30-day visa on arrival in 2026.