The UAE and Moldova signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday, confirming the mutual exemption of entry visas for citizens of both countries. The agreement was finalized during a high-level diplomatic meeting in Abu Dhabi between Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mihai Popșoi, Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Under the new agreement, Emirati passport holders can now travel to Moldova without a visa, and Moldovan citizens can also enjoy visa-free access to the UAE. The move is seen as a strategic step to foster deeper bilateral ties and streamline travel between the two nations, benefiting both individual travelers and the business community.
The official discussions also explored expanding joint ventures in economic, commercial, and investment domains, aligning with both countries’ development strategies. According to officials, the talks were held in a cordial atmosphere, focusing on accelerating mutual growth opportunities.
The agreement comes at a time when the UAE continues to strengthen its global diplomatic footprint, with a focus on visa reforms to enhance global mobility for its citizens. Moldova, on its part, views the UAE as a key partner in the Gulf region with growing potential for economic and political collaboration.
The visa waiver is expected to drive up people-to-people engagement and provide a much-needed boost to tourism and cultural exchanges. Experts believe that the removal of entry barriers could pave the way for increased foreign investment and tourism flows in both directions.
Key Facts:
- Signed on August 4, 2025, in Abu Dhabi.
- Emiratis can travel to Moldova visa-free and vice versa.
- Part of UAE’s broader visa liberalization policy.
- Focus on boosting trade, tourism, and investment ties.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet released the official start date for the visa-free entry protocol. However, both parties expressed confidence that the operational details will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
