If you hold a UAE residence visa but not a UAE passport, your travel privileges depend on both. Some countries let you in visa-free or offer visa on arrival, but only if your residency and job title meet their rules. Others require eVisas, and a few won’t care about your UAE status at all.
This guide breaks it down clearly, by country and by passport, with official sources only. Visa policies listed are accurate as of July 2025; however always verify with official immigration or embassy sources before travel.
Understanding the Difference between Visa-Free Travel and Visa on Arrival
Visa-free travel and visa-on-arrival are common terms when it comes to international travel, particularly for UAE residents. Understanding the distinction between these options can help you plan your trips more efficiently and avoid any last-minute complications.
Who Counts as a “UAE Resident” and Why It Matters
This guide is for expats who live in the UAE with a residence visa, not Emirati passport holders. Your residency could be tied to work, family sponsorship, or a freelance permit. What matters is that it’s active and stamped in your passport or Emirates ID.
For visa-on-arrival or visa-free travel, UAE residency sometimes works like a shortcut, but only if:
- Your residency is valid (not expiring soon)
- Your passport is from a country that qualifies under that specific rule
- Some countries also care about your job title—especially in the GCC
If you’re unsure whether your residency helps, this guide will spell it out country by country, with no guesswork.
List of Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents
Travel within the GCC is common for UAE residents, but not all borders are open equally. These five countries offer some form of visa-free, visa-on-arrival, or simplified eVisa access, but the rules vary sharply based on your job title, passport, and residency status.
1. Oman
Visa Type: eVisa (GCC Resident Tourist Visa – Type 29A)
Stay Duration: 28 days (extendable once by 7 days)
Application: Apply here on the official Oman eVisa portal
Key Requirements:
- UAE residency must be valid for at least 6 months
- Job title must appear on Oman’s approved profession list (ROP)
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Fee: OMR 5 (~AED 48), paid online
Caution: If your profession isn’t on the list (e.g. cleaner, delivery rider), your visa will be rejected—even if the site accepts your payment.
Saudi Arabia
Visa Type: eVisa (Tourism, Umrah, business visit)
Stay Duration: Up to 90 days per visit (1-year multiple-entry)
Application: Apply through Saudi’s official visa portal
Key Requirements:
- UAE residence permit valid for 3+ months
- No job title restriction
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Fee: ~SAR 300 (includes mandatory insurance, paid online)
Caution: You must enter with the same passport and residency proof used for the application. Dependents (spouse, children) can apply with the sponsor.
2. Bahrain
Visa Type: Visa on Arrival or eVisa
Stay Duration: 14 days on arrival; up to 90 days via eVisa
Application: Apply via the official Bahrain eVisa portal
Key Requirements:
- UAE residency and passport must both be valid for 6+ months
- Job title must match Bahrain’s qualifying profession list (NPRA)
- Return ticket and hotel booking required
- Fee: BD 5–44 depending on visa type and duration
Caution: Bahrain officers may ask for proof of income, occupation, or bank statements. Have documents ready.
3. Kuwait
Visa Type: Visa on Arrival or eVisa
Stay Duration: 90 days
Application: Kuwait Ministry of Interior eVisa portal
Key Requirements:
- UAE residence visa valid for 6+ months
- Must work in an approved profession (e.g., engineer, doctor, consultant)
- Iraqi nationals are excluded from this policy
- Hotel address, return ticket required
- Fee: ~KD 3 (~AED 36)
Caution: Officers are strict about profession verification. If your title doesn’t match, they can deny entry even if you applied online.
4.Qatar
Visa Type: GCC Resident Visa via Hayya platform (A2 category)
Stay Duration: 30 days (extendable once)
Application: Apply on the official Hayya portal
Key Requirements:
- UAE residency must be valid for 3+ months
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Return ticket and hotel booking required
- Certain nationalities (e.g., India, Pakistan, Iran) must book hotels via Discover Qatar
- Fee: QAR 100 (~AED 100)
Caution: Despite no job title restriction, immigration may question your purpose if you lack hotel bookings or return proof. Always print your Hayya approval.
These are three of the most popular destinations for UAE expats, especially Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino residents. But each has very different rules based on your passport and how long you’ve held your UAE residence visa.
1. Georgia
Visa Type: Visa-free entry
Stay Duration: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period
Official Source: Georgia MFA – Visa-Free Entry for GCC Residents
Who qualifies:
- You must hold a valid UAE residence visa (minimum 6–12 months validity depending on nationality)
- Passport must be from a non-restricted country (see below)
Documents to carry: - Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Printed UAE residence visa or Emirates ID
- Return ticket
- Hotel booking or address in Georgia
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Important:
As of April 2025, nationals from Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and 13 other countries must have a UAE residence visa valid for at least 1 year to enter. Georgia has been stricter at the border with short-term visa holders.
2. Armenia
Visa Type: Visa-free for UAE residents (starting July 1, 2025)
Stay Duration: 90 days within 180 days
Official Source: Armenian MFA – Visa Policy
Who qualifies:
- All UAE residents of any nationality, with valid UAE residency (minimum 6 months)
- Previously, many nationalities needed VOA or eVisa. That ends July 1, 2025.
Documents to carry:
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- UAE residence visa (valid 6+ months)
- Return ticket, hotel booking
- Travel insurance
3. Azerbaijan
Visa Type: Visa on Arrival at major airports (e.g. Baku)
Stay Duration: 30 days
Official Source: Azerbaijan eVisa & VOA Policy – MFA
Who qualifies:
- UAE residents of any nationality can get a Visa on Arrival
- Must have a valid UAE residence visa and a passport from a recognized state (refugee/travel documents not accepted)
Documents to carry:
- Passport (valid at least 6 months)
- UAE residence visa or Emirates ID
- Return ticket
- Hotel reservation (recommended)
- Visa fee (~USD 26), paid at the airport
Optional:
If you prefer to apply in advance, use the official ASAN eVisa portal , processing takes 3 business days.
Note: No profession restrictions. This is one of the most accessible options for UAE expats, especially Indian and Filipino residents.
1. Maldives
Visa Type: Visa on Arrival (free)
Stay Duration: 30 days (can be extended to 90 days)
Official Source: Maldives Immigration – Tourist Visa
Who qualifies:
- All nationalities are eligible, UAE residency not required
- But UAE residency can help prove financial stability
Documents to carry:
- Passport valid for at least 1 month
- Return or onward ticket
- Hotel booking or proof of accommodation
- Proof of funds (about USD 100 + $50 per day if no hotel booked)
- IMUGA Traveller Declaration (must be submitted online within 96 hours before arrival)
No visa fee, but extension (up to 90 days total) costs MVR 750 (~AED 180)
2. Sri Lanka
Visa Type: ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) or Visa on Arrival
Stay Duration: 30 days (extendable to 180 days)
Official Source: Official Sri Lanka ETA Portal
Who qualifies:
- All major UAE expat nationalities (India, Pakistan, Philippines, Egypt, Nigeria) are eligible for ETA
- UAE residency not required but can support intent-to-return
Documents to carry:
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- ETA approval printout (recommended, even if VOA is available)
- Return ticket
- Hotel confirmation
- Funds or credit card
Fees:
- SAARC nationals (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh): USD 20
- Others: USD 35
- Free for children under 12
- VOA is available at airport for slightly higher cost
Apply at least 24–48 hours in advance at www.eta.gov.lk
3. Nepal
Visa Type: Visa on Arrival
Stay Duration: Choice of 15, 30, or 90 days
Official Source: Nepal Immigration – Visa on Arrival Info
Who qualifies:
- Most nationalities are eligible for VOA
- Exceptions: Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Nigerians, and other SAARC citizens need to check special provisions
- UAE residency not required, but helpful for return assurance
Documents to carry:
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Passport-size photo (or use digital kiosk)
- Visa application form (available at airport or online
- Visa fee in USD (cash preferred)
Fees:
- 15 days: USD 30
- 30 days: USD 50
- 90 days: USD 125
SAARC nationals get 30 days free once per calendar year (must still apply)
4. Seychelles
Visa Type: Visa-free (Visitor Permit issued on arrival)
Stay Duration: 30 days (extendable up to 12 months)
Official Source: Seychelles Immigration – Travel Requirements
Who qualifies:
- All nationalities except Kosovo (banned from entry)
- UAE residency not required, but may support credibility
Documents to carry:
- Passport valid for duration of stay
- Return ticket
- Hotel booking
- Proof of funds (about USD 150 per day per person)
- Travel insurance
- Seychelles Health Travel Authorization (HTA) (online pre-approval required)
First 3 months are free; extensions available for a fee
1. Kenya
Visa Type: eVisa (mandatory; no visa on arrival)
Stay Duration: Up to 90 days
Official Source: Kenya eVisa Portal
Who qualifies:
- UAE residents from India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Egypt, Philippines, and most nationalities can apply online
- UAE residency is not a condition, but many expats benefit from the simplified eVisa process
Documents to upload:
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Passport-size photo
- Travel itinerary or flight booking
- Hotel reservation
- Optional: Emirates ID or UAE residence visa as supporting proof
Fee: USD 51
Processing time: 1–3 working days
No VOA, all travelers (except from 10 exempt nations) must apply online in advance
2. Mauritius
Visa Type: Visa-free or Visa on Arrival
Stay Duration: Up to 60 days for most eligible passports
Official Source: Mauritius Passport & Immigration Office
Who qualifies:
- Indian, Pakistani, and Nigerian passport holders do need a visa, but UAE residency can help show ties and support tourist intent
- Filipino, Egyptian, Bangladeshi nationals often get VOA or visa-free access depending on current policy
Documents to carry:
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Return ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Funds (~USD 100 per day recommended)
- Travel insurance
Always confirm eligibility at your nearest Mauritius consulate, as visa rules differ sharply by nationality
3. Tanzania
Visa Type: eVisa or Visa on Arrival
Stay Duration: Up to 90 days
Official Source: Tanzania Immigration eVisa
Who qualifies:
- Most UAE expat nationalities (India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Egypt, etc.) are eligible for either VOA or eVisa
- UAE residency is not a requirement, but supports return proof
Documents to carry:
- Passport
- Travel itinerary
- Hotel reservation
- Yellow fever vaccination (if arriving from/transiting via risk countries)
- Visa fee (~USD 50)
For faster entry, apply via the official eVisa portal 1–2 weeks in advance
4. Rwanda
Visa Type: eVisa or Visa on Arrival
Stay Duration: Up to 30 days (extendable)
Official Source: Rwanda Immigration – Visa Policy
Who qualifies:
- UAE residents of most nationalities (India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Egypt, etc.) qualify for VOA or eVisa
- No special benefit for UAE residency, but simple entry
Documents to carry:
- Passport (6+ months)
- Return ticket
- Hotel confirmation
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Fee: USD 50
Application (optional): Apply eVisa here
Rwanda also offers an East Africa Tourist Visa (USD 100) valid for Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda
1. Montenegro
Visa Type: Visa-free (with Schengen/US/UK visa or residence)
Stay Duration: Up to 30 days
Official Source: Montenegro Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Visa Regime
Who qualifies:
- UAE residents holding valid multiple-entry visas (or residence permits) from the Schengen Area, US, UK, Ireland
- Must show the original visa and not just an expired one
- Documents to carry:
- Passport (valid 3+ months after intended stay)
- Return ticket
- Accommodation proof
- Valid Schengen/US/UK visa or residence card
UAE residence alone is not sufficient, you need a qualifying visa from a Western country
2. Serbia
Visa Type: Often visa-free for UAE residents (seasonal or based on visa type)
Stay Duration: Up to 90 days in 180
Official Source: Serbia MFA, Visa Information
Who qualifies:
- Indian and UAE passport holders already enjoy visa-free access
- For other nationalities (e.g. Pakistanis, Egyptians, Nigerians), UAE residency may support visa waivers only if holding a valid Schengen/US/UK visa
Caution: Serbia’s policies have shifted frequently in recent years; always verify with the nearest Serbian embassy
3. Albania
Visa Type: Visa-free seasonally for UAE residents (typically April–Dec)
Stay Duration: Up to 90 days
Official Source: Albania MFA – Visa Info
Who qualifies:
- Any nationality holding a valid UAE residence visa or a valid Schengen/US/UK visa can enter Albania visa-free between April and December
- UAE residents must show valid residency and sufficient documentation (return flight, hotel booking)
Documents to carry:
- Passport
- UAE residency proof
- Return ticket
- Hotel reservation
- Travel insurance (strongly advised)
Outside the visa-free window, some nationalities (e.g. Pakistan, Nigeria) must apply for a visa in advance
4. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Visa Type: Visa-free (with valid Schengen/US/UK visa or residence)
Stay Duration: Up to 30 days within 60
Official Source: Bosnia MFA – Visa Regime
Who qualifies:
- Any nationality holding a valid multiple-entry Schengen, US, UK or EU visa or residence permit
- Visa must remain valid throughout your stay
Documents to carry:
- Passport
- Third-country visa (Schengen/US/UK)
- Travel proof (return flight, accommodation, funds)
UAE residency alone is not sufficient, but many UAE expats qualify via Schengen/US/UK visa
1. Uzbekistan
Visa Type: eVisa
Stay Duration: 30 days
Official Source: Uzbekistan eVisa Portal
Who qualifies:
- UAE residents from India, Pakistan, Egypt, Bangladesh, Philippines, and many others are eligible
- UAE residency not required, but many expats prefer the no-embassy process
Requirements:
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Passport-size photo
- Travel itinerary
- Visa fee: USD 20–25
- Processing time: 2–3 working days
No job title or interview needed. Just apply online, pay, and download PDF.
2. Kazakhstan
Visa Type: eVisa (for selected nationalities)
Stay Duration: 30 days
Official Source: Kazakhstan eVisa Portal
Who qualifies:
- Indian and Pakistani nationals are eligible for eVisa if they have an invitation letter from an authorized Kazakh host
- UAE residency is not a standalone qualifier but can help explain travel ties
Requirements:
- Passport
- Invitation code (from sponsor or tour agency)
- Travel documents
- Fee: USD 60 (approx.)
Not as frictionless as others, but still paper-free for eligible UAE expats.
3. Kyrgyzstan
Visa Type: eVisa
Stay Duration: 30 or 90 days depending on nationality
Official Source: Kyrgyzstan eVisa Platform
Who qualifies:
- UAE expats from India, Pakistan, Egypt, Nigeria, and most African/Asian countries
- No special UAE-resident benefit, but the system is fast and low-barrier
Requirements:
- Standard eVisa application
- Passport
- Purpose of visit (tourism/business)
- Fee: USD 41+
- Processing: 3–5 days
Tips Before Traveling to Visa-Free Countries
Research Entry Requirements
Even in visa-free countries, specific entry requirements may apply, such as health declarations, travel authorizations, or documentation related to your residency.
- Example: Some countries like Georgia allow UAE residents visa-free entry if they carry a valid residency permit, while others, like Sri Lanka, may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
- Action: Visit the destination country’s official embassy website or consult reliable travel advisories for the latest updates.
Confirm Length of Stay
Visa-free entry often comes with a maximum duration, which varies by country. Exceeding this limit can lead to fines or even bans on future visits.
-
- Example: Thailand permits UAE residents to stay for up to 30 days visa-free, while Mauritius allows 90 days.
- Action: Check your eligibility and plan your return date within the allowed timeframe.
Verify Passport Validity
Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the travel date.
- Example: Countries like Indonesia and Singapore enforce this rule strictly.
- Action: Renew your passport in advance if its validity is less than 6 months at the time of travel.
Keep Proof of Onward or Return Travel
Immigration officers may ask for proof of onward or return tickets to ensure you do not overstay.
- Example: Some Caribbean countries like Trinidad and Tobago emphasize this requirement during entry checks.
- Action: Carry printed or digital copies of your flight tickets and have them readily accessible at immigration.
Arrange Travel Insurance
Although not mandatory in all visa-free destinations, travel insurance is highly recommended. Many countries prioritize your ability to cover unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies.
- Example: Schengen countries may require insurance coverage of at least €30,000.
- Action: Choose a policy that includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss of belongings.
Organize Accommodation Proof
Whether staying at a hotel or with family, you may need to present proof of accommodation.
- Example: Countries like Azerbaijan require proof of lodging at the border, especially if traveling for tourism.
- Action: Keep copies of hotel reservations, Airbnb bookings, or an invitation letter from your host.
Be Financially Prepared
Immigration authorities may request proof of sufficient funds to ensure you can sustain yourself during your stay.
- Example: Indonesia and Malaysia may check if you have enough money to cover daily expenses.
- Action: Carry cash, a valid credit card, or bank statements showing recent transactions and balances.
Maintain Copies of Important Documents
Losing travel documents can lead to significant delays or issues during your trip.
- Action: Carry photocopies or digital backups of your passport, residency visa, Emirates ID, and travel insurance. Keep originals securely stored.
Familiarize Yourself with Local Customs and Laws
Understanding a country’s culture and laws enhances your experience and prevents misunderstandings.
- Example: In countries like Maldives, public displays of affection and certain clothing choices may be restricted.
- Action: Read about local customs, prohibited items, and unique rules (e.g., entry fees or restricted areas).
Confirm Your Eligibility for Visa-Free Entry
Although UAE residency grants visa-free access to several countries, the terms may depend on your nationality or the specific visa type you hold.
- Example: UAE residents with Indian or Pakistani passports may have different privileges than UAE citizens.
- Action: Verify your eligibility and carry supporting documents like Emirates ID or residency visa copies.
Stay Informed About Currency and Exchange Rates
Some countries may require you to exchange your currency before arrival or have specific restrictions on foreign currencies.
- Example: Countries like Nepal and Bhutan only accept specific currencies or require exchange receipts.
- Action: Carry some local currency or a globally accepted payment method, like a credit card.
Register with Your Embassy
For added safety, registering your trip with your home country’s embassy can be beneficial. This allows them to assist in emergencies.
- Action: Check if the UAE offers travel registration services for residents traveling abroad.
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Benefits of Visa-Free Travel for UAE Residents
Required Documents for Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents
List of Visa Free Countries for UAE Residents in 2025
Asia
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sri Lanka | Visa on Arrival | Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) recommended in advance. |
| Maldives | Visa-Free | 30 days visa-free access. |
| Thailand | Visa on Arrival | 15–30 days for UAE residents depending on entry points. |
| Indonesia | Visa-Free | Valid for up to 30 days. |
| Singapore | Visa-Free | 30 days visa-free access. |
| Armenia | Visa-Free | Entry allowed with Emirates ID or residency card. |
| Azerbaijan | Visa-Free | Up to 30 days; ASAN e-visa not required for UAE residents. |
Europe
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia | Visa-Free | Unlimited stay for UAE residents with valid documents. |
| Serbia | Visa-Free | Stay permitted up to 90 days. |
| Montenegro | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days within a 180-day period. |
| Albania | Visa-Free | 90 days visa-free travel within a 180-day window. |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | Visa-Free | Stay allowed for up to 30 days. |
| Ukraine | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days within 180 days; requires valid residency. |
Africa
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seychelles | Visa-Free | 90 days visa-free entry. |
| Mauritius | Visa-Free | Stay allowed for up to 90 days. |
| Kenya | Visa on Arrival | e-Visa also available for faster processing. |
| Tanzania | Visa on Arrival | Visa valid for 90 days. |
| Uganda | Visa on Arrival | East Africa tourist visa covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. |
Americas
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days within 180 days. |
| Ecuador | Visa-Free | Entry allowed for up to 90 days. |
| Colombia | Visa-Free | 90-day visa-free travel. |
| Panama | Visa-Free | 180 days for UAE passport holders with residency. |
Middle East
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oman | Visa-Free | 14 days visa-free entry. |
| Jordan | Visa on Arrival | 30 days visa on arrival; free for Arab residents. |
| Qatar | Visa-Free | 30 days visa-free access. |
Oceania
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fiji | Visa-Free | 120 days visa-free access. |
| Vanuatu | Visa-Free | Up to 30 days visa-free entry. |
| Samoa | Visa on Arrival | Valid for 60 days on arrival. |
Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries for UAE Residents with Indian Passport
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indonesia | Visa-Free | Up to 30 days. |
| Thailand | Visa-Free | Temporary visa-free entry for tourism, with stays up to 60 days, effective for six months starting from 15 July 2024. |
| Sri Lanka | Visa-Free | Visa-free travel for Indian citizens from October 2024. |
| Maldives | Visa on Arrival | 30 days, extendable up to 90 days. |
| Mauritius | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Seychelles | Visitor’s Permit | Issued on arrival for up to 90 days. |
| Nepal | Visa-Free | Unlimited stay; Indian citizens can reside and work freely. |
| Bhutan | Visa-Free | Indian citizens can enter without a visa. |
| Serbia | Visa-Free | Up to 30 days within a year. |
| Jamaica | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Fiji | Visa-Free | Up to 120 days. |
| Dominica | Visa-Free | Up to 180 days. |
| El Salvador | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Ecuador | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Macau (SAR China) | Visa-Free | Up to 30 days. |
| Barbados | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Grenada | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Haiti | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Kazakhstan | Visa-Free | Up to 14 days. |
| Laos | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| Madagascar | Visa on Arrival | Up to 90 days. |
| Malawi | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| Myanmar | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| Palau | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| Rwanda | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| Samoa | Entry Permit on Arrival | Up to 60 days. |
| Senegal | Visa on Arrival | Up to 90 days. |
| Somalia | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| St. Kitts and Nevis | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| St. Lucia | Visa on Arrival | Up to 42 days. |
| St. Vincent and the Grenadines | Visa-Free | Up to 30 days. |
| Tanzania | Visa on Arrival | Up to 90 days. |
| Timor-Leste | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| Togo | Visa on Arrival | Up to 7 days. |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Tunisia | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days. |
| Tuvalu | Visa on Arrival | Up to 30 days. |
| Vanuatu | Visa-Free | Up to 30 days. |
| Zimbabwe | Visa on Arrival | Up to 90 days. |
Visa-Free & On-Arrival Countries for UAE Residents with Pakistani Passport
| Country | Visa Requirement | Allowed Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barbados | Visa-Free | 90 days | |
| Dominica | Visa-Free | 180 days | |
| Gambia | Visa-Free | 90 days | |
| Haiti | Visa-Free | 90 days | |
| Micronesia | Visa-Free | 30 days | |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | Visa-Free | 30 days | |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Visa-Free | 90 days | |
| Vanuatu | Visa-Free | 30 days | |
| Maldives | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Nepal | Visa on Arrival | 90 days | |
| Samoa | Visa on Arrival | 60 days | Entry permit issued upon arrival. |
| Seychelles | Visitor’s Permit | 90 days | Permit issued upon arrival. |
| Senegal | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Tanzania | Visa on Arrival | 90 days | |
| Togo | Visa on Arrival | 7 days | |
| Tuvalu | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Uganda | Visa on Arrival | 90 days | |
| Palau | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Rwanda | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Somalia | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | Visa on arrival obtainable at specific airports. |
| Timor-Leste | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Cape Verde | Visa on Arrival | ||
| Comoros | Visa on Arrival | ||
| Guinea-Bissau | Visa on Arrival | 90 days | |
| Madagascar | Visa on Arrival | 90 days | |
| Mauritania | Visa on Arrival | ||
| Mozambique | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Nauru | Visa on Arrival | ||
| Sierra Leone | Visa on Arrival | ||
| Malawi | Visa on Arrival | ||
| Bolivia | Visa on Arrival | 90 days | |
| Cambodia | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | |
| Jordan | Visa on Arrival | ||
| Kenya | Visa on Arrival | 90 days | |
| Zimbabwe | Visa on Arrival | 90 days |
What Gets People Turned Away at the Border
Even if a country offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry, things still go wrong. These are the mistakes that get UAE residents denied at immigration, sometimes after flying 4,000 km.
1. Thinking UAE residency is enough
Some countries require a valid UAE residency + specific job title. If you’re not in the approved category (e.g. engineer, doctor, manager), you can be rejected, even with an eVisa approval (e.g. Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain).
2. Not checking passport nationality restrictions
UAE residency doesn’t override your passport. For example:
- Georgia now requires UAE residents from Pakistan, Nigeria, and 13 other countries to hold 1-year valid UAE residence or more
- Armenia previously excluded some nationalities from VOA (ends July 2025)
Always confirm the latest rule for your passport + UAE visa combo, not just your UAE status.
3. Assuming visa on arrival = guaranteed entry
A visa on arrival only means you can apply at the border. Immigration officers still make the final call.
If you’re missing key documents or don’t look like a real tourist, they can turn you away.
Bring these every time:
- Printed UAE residence visa or Emirates ID
- Return ticket
- Hotel confirmation
- Travel insurance
- Bank card or proof of funds
4. Trying to enter with near-expiry UAE visas
Many countries require your UAE residency to be valid for at least 3–6 months at the time of entry.
A common issue: people try to travel during their UAE grace period after visa cancellation. Most countries won’t accept that.
Always check the remaining validity before booking.
5. Using third-party visa websites
Use only official portals because there are dozens of fake or unofficial visa websites that charge more, steal your info, or don’t even process your application.
FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the top visa-free countries for UAE residents in 2025?
Countries like Thailand, Georgia, Seychelles, Indonesia, and Maldives are top visa-free destinations offering natural beauty and cultural attractions.
How many countries can UAE residents travel to without a visa?
UAE residents can travel visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival to approximately 100 countries, depending on their nationality.
What is visa-free travel for UAE residents?
Visa-free travel allows UAE residents to enter certain countries without needing prior approval or a visa for a specified duration.
Is Germany visa-free for UAE residents?
Germany is not visa-free for UAE residents; a Schengen visa is required unless you hold a UAE golden visa, offering some exemptions.
Is Thailand visa-free for UAE residents?
Yes, UAE residents can visit Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days, with proof of onward travel and accommodation.
Do UAE residents need specific documents for visa-free travel?
Yes, key documents include a valid passport (6-month validity), Emirates ID, proof of accommodation, and return or onward tickets.
What documents are required for a visa on arrival?
Documents usually include a passport, return ticket, accommodation details, and sometimes proof of funds or travel insurance.
Can UAE residents use their Emirates ID for visa-free entry to GCC countries?
No, UAE residents require a passport and valid residency visa for entry; Emirates ID alone is insufficient.
Which countries allow visa-free travel for UAE residents with Indian passports?
Countries like Nepal, Maldives, Seychelles, and Sri Lanka (with ETA) allow visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for Indian passport holders with UAE residency.
Can I extend my stay in a visa-free or visa-on-arrival country?
Yes, most countries allow extensions, but it depends on local policies; fees and additional documents may be required.
