Visa on Arrival Countries for UAE Residents in 2025
Published on September 28, 2025 • Last Updated: September 28, 2025
Travel Freedom for UAE Residents
UAE residents enjoy significant travel privileges around the world, with many countries offering visa-free entry or visa on arrival options. This comprehensive guide outlines all the countries where UAE residents can travel without the hassle of applying for a visa in advance, making your travel planning simpler and more convenient.
Understanding Visa Types for UAE Residents
Before we dive into the list of countries, it's important to understand the different types of visa arrangements available to UAE residents:
- Visa-Free Entry: No visa required at all. You can enter with just your passport.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Visa issued at the port of entry (airport, land border, etc.).
- eVisa: Electronic visa that can be obtained online before travel.
- Embassy Visa: Traditional visa that must be obtained from an embassy or consulate before travel.
Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents
The following countries allow UAE residents to enter without any visa for the specified duration:
Asia
- Bahrain: 14 days
- Hong Kong: 30 days
- Indonesia: 30 days
- Malaysia: 30 days
- Maldives: 30 days
- Singapore: 30 days (for UAE nationals)
- South Korea: 30 days
- Thailand: 30 days
Europe
- Albania: 90 days
- Armenia: 180 days
- Azerbaijan: 30 days (eVisa)
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: 90 days
- Georgia: 90 days
- Montenegro: 30 days
- Serbia: 90 days
- Turkey: 90 days (eVisa)
Africa
- Egypt: Visa on arrival
- Mauritius: 90 days
- Morocco: 90 days
- Seychelles: 30 days
- Tanzania: Visa on arrival
Americas & Caribbean
- Bahamas: 3 months
- Barbados: 30 days
- Dominica: 21 days
- Jamaica: 30 days
- St. Kitts and Nevis: 3 months
- St. Lucia: 6 weeks
Visa on Arrival Countries for UAE Residents
These countries offer visa on arrival facilities for UAE residents, making travel planning more flexible:
Asia & Middle East
- Cambodia: 30 days
- Jordan: 30 days
- Laos: 30 days
- Nepal: 30 days
- Sri Lanka: 30 days (ETA required)
- Vietnam: 30 days (e-visa required)
Africa
- Kenya: 3 months
- Madagascar: 90 days
- Rwanda: 30 days
- Uganda: 3 months
- Zimbabwe: 3 months
Special Privileges for UAE Residents
UAE residents with certain visas may enjoy additional travel privileges:
UAE Residents with Valid US, UK, or Schengen Visas
If you're a UAE resident holding a valid visa from the US, UK, or Schengen area, you may be eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival in these additional countries:
- Mexico: With valid US visa
- Georgia: With valid US, UK, or Schengen visa
- Albania: With valid US, UK, or Schengen visa
- Serbia: With valid US, UK, or Schengen visa
- Costa Rica: With valid US, Canada, or Schengen visa
Important Travel Tips for UAE Residents
Documentation
- Always carry your valid UAE residence visa
- Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity
- Carry proof of accommodation bookings
- Have return/onward tickets ready
- Keep travel insurance documents handy
Before You Travel
- Verify the latest visa requirements
- Check if you need to register with your embassy
- Confirm visa fees and payment methods
- Research local customs and regulations
- Check if you need any vaccinations
UAE Resident Experience
"As a UAE resident, I was amazed at how easy it was to travel to Thailand and Malaysia without applying for a visa in advance. DreamSphere helped me plan my entire Southeast Asia trip!"
- Ahmed K., Dubai
Indian Expat in UAE
"Being an Indian expat in the UAE, I was delighted to discover how many countries I could visit with just my UAE residence visa. DreamSphere's guidance was invaluable."
- Priya M., Abu Dhabi
Need Help Planning Your Next Trip?
Our travel experts can help you make the most of your UAE residency travel privileges!
Contact Information
Location: Burjuman, Dubai, UAE
Email: info@dreamsphere.world
Phone: +971 50 513 4930
Working Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Sunday: Closed
Stay Updated on Visa Policies
Visa policies can change frequently, and it's essential to verify the latest requirements before planning your trip. At DreamSphere World, we keep track of all visa policy changes affecting UAE residents and can provide you with the most up-to-date information.
Contact our visa experts today to:
- Get personalized travel advice based on your nationality and UAE residency status
- Receive assistance with visa applications for countries requiring advance visas
- Plan multi-country itineraries optimized for your visa situation
- Learn about special visa exemptions you may qualify for
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to carry my UAE residence visa when traveling?
Yes, it's essential to carry your valid UAE residence visa along with your passport when traveling. Many countries that offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges specifically require proof of UAE residency. We recommend carrying both your physical Emirates ID and having digital copies of your residence visa page.
Can UAE residents of all nationalities enjoy these visa privileges?
Visa privileges can vary based on your nationality in addition to your UAE residency status. Some countries offer different entry conditions for different passport holders, even if they all have UAE residence. Our travel experts can provide personalized advice based on your specific nationality and UAE residence status.
How much does a visa on arrival typically cost?
Visa on arrival fees vary by country, ranging from approximately $20 to $100 USD. Some countries offer free visa on arrival for UAE residents, while others charge a fee. Most countries accept payment in major currencies (USD, EUR) or by credit card, but some may require local currency, so it's advisable to carry some cash.
What if my UAE residence visa is expiring soon?
Most countries require that your UAE residence visa remains valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your intended stay. If your residence visa is expiring soon, we recommend renewing it before traveling internationally to avoid entry complications or being denied boarding by airlines.
Do I need travel insurance when visiting these countries?
While not always mandatory for entry, we strongly recommend having comprehensive travel insurance for any international trip. Some countries may randomly check for travel insurance at immigration, particularly for coverage of medical expenses and emergency evacuation. DreamSphere can help you select the right travel insurance policy for your needs.
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your UAE Residency
UAE residency opens doors to convenient international travel with numerous visa-free and visa-on-arrival destinations. This travel privilege is one of the many benefits of living in the UAE, allowing residents to explore diverse cultures and destinations with minimal paperwork.
At DreamSphere World, we specialize in helping UAE residents maximize their travel opportunities. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended international journey, our expert team can guide you through the visa requirements, recommend destinations based on your preferences, and ensure a smooth travel experience.