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Entry and Exit Regulations

Guidelines on entry and exit procedures, including visa-on-arrival policies and overstaying penalties.

Sections

1. Entry Regulations

a. Passport Requirements

  • All travelers entering the UAE must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry.
  • Temporary travel documents may not be accepted unless pre-approved by UAE authorities.

b. Visa Requirements

The UAE offers various visa types depending on the purpose and duration of the visit. Below are the main categories:

  1. Visa-Free Entry (Visa on Arrival)

    • Citizens of certain countries (e.g., the USA, UK, EU countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and others) are eligible for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival.
    • Duration: Typically 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality.
    • Cost: Free of charge for eligible nationalities.

  2. Tourist Visa

    • For travelers not eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival.
    • Duration: 30 or 90 days (single or multiple entry).
    • Cost: Approx. AED 350–AED 1,000 (varies by duration and type).
    • Application: Can be arranged through UAE-based airlines, hotels, or travel agencies.

  3. Transit Visa

    • For travelers transiting through UAE airports.
    • Duration: 48 hours (free) or 96 hours (approx. AED 50).
    • Application: Must be arranged by the airline before arrival.

  4. Work Visa

    • Required for individuals planning to work in the UAE.
    • Issued after securing a job offer and sponsorship by a UAE-based employer.
    • Cost: Typically covered by the employer.
    • Validity: Linked to the employment contract (1–3 years).

  5. Residency Visa

    • For long-term residents, including employees, investors, students, and family members of UAE residents.
    • Requires sponsorship by an employer, family member, or educational institution.
    • Cost: Approx. AED 1,000–AED 5,000, depending on the visa type and duration.

  6. Golden Visa

    • A long-term residency visa (5 or 10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and outstanding students.
    • Cost: Varies based on eligibility and application process.

  7. Student Visa

    • For international students enrolled in UAE universities.
    • Requires sponsorship by the educational institution.
    • Cost: Approx. AED 1,000–AED 3,000.

  8. Retirement Visa

    • For retirees aged 55+ meeting specific financial criteria.
    • Validity: 5 years, renewable.
    • Cost: Approx. AED 2,500–AED 4,000.

c. COVID-19 Regulations (as of October 2023)

  • Travelers are no longer required to present a negative PCR test or vaccination certificate unless specified by their airline or country of origin.
  • Health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment is recommended.

2. Exit Regulations

a. Passport Validity

  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.

b. Overstay Fines

  • Visitors who overstay their visa are subject to fines:
    • AED 50 per day for the first 6 months.
    • AED 100 per day after 6 months.
    • AED 200 per day after 1 year.
  • Overstay fines must be paid before exiting the country.

c. Clearance of Debts and Legal Issues

  • Ensure all debts, fines, and legal cases are cleared before departure. Immigration authorities may prevent exit if unresolved issues exist.

d. Work Visa Cancellation

  • Employees leaving the UAE permanently must have their work visa canceled by their employer before departure.

e. Residency Visa Cancellation

  • Residents relocating or leaving permanently must cancel their residency visa and settle any outstanding bills (e.g., utilities, rent).

3. General Costs

  • Visa Application Fees: Vary by type and duration (AED 50–AED 5,000).
  • Medical Tests: Required for work and residency visas (AED 250–AED 500).
  • Emirates ID: Mandatory for residents (AED 100–AED 300 per year of validity).
  • Health Insurance: Mandatory for residents; costs depend on the coverage plan.

4. Standard Procedures

a. Before Arrival

  1. Check visa requirements based on nationality and purpose of visit.
  2. Apply for the appropriate visa through:
    • UAE embassies/consulates.
    • UAE-based airlines (e.g., Emirates, Etihad).
    • Travel agencies or hotels (for tourist visas).
  3. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity.
  4. Arrange travel insurance (recommended).

b. Upon Arrival

  1. Present your passport and visa (if applicable) at immigration.
  2. Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) may be collected.
  3. Receive an entry stamp indicating the duration of stay.

c. During Your Stay

  1. Adhere to the visa duration and avoid overstaying.
  2. Carry a copy of your passport and visa for identification purposes.
  3. Respect UAE laws and cultural norms.

d. Before Departure

  1. Confirm your visa status and ensure no overstays.
  2. Pay any fines or fees (if applicable).
  3. Cancel work or residency visas if leaving permanently.

5. Country-Specific Considerations

a. Cultural Sensitivity

  • The UAE is a Muslim-majority country with strict laws and cultural norms. Visitors should:
    • Dress modestly in public.
    • Avoid public displays of affection.
    • Refrain from consuming alcohol in public (only in licensed venues).

b. Prohibited Items

  • Items such as drugs, e-cigarettes, certain medications, and materials deemed offensive to Islamic values are strictly prohibited.
  • Carry a doctor’s prescription for any medication you bring.

c. Legal System

  • The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal activities, including drug use, public intoxication, and offensive behavior.
  • Familiarize yourself with local laws to avoid legal issues.

d. Travel Between Emirates

  • Once inside the UAE, travelers can move freely between the seven emirates (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah) without additional permits.

e. Currency and Payments

  • The UAE Dirham (AED) is the official currency.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions.

6. Key Contacts

  • UAE Immigration (GDRFA and ICA)
    • General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA): For Dubai-related visas.
    • Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICA): For other emirates.
  • UAE Embassies and Consulates
    • Contact the nearest UAE embassy for visa inquiries and assistance.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the UAE’s entry and exit regulations. Always verify the latest requirements with official UAE government sources or your airline before traveling.