According to VisaGuide Passport Index, Emirati passports rank 31st in the world as of April 2024. Emirati citizens can travel visa-free to 140 countries around the world. However, Emirati passport holders must apply for a visa in advance to enter the remaining countries.
UAE Visa-Free Access
UAE passport holders enjoy one of the strongest passports in the world, allowing them to travel to numerous countries without the requirement of a visa. This visa-free access not only simplifies travel arrangements but also opens up a plethora of opportunities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange. The UAE strategic diplomatic efforts have expanded its list of visa-free countries, affirming its position on the global stage.
Benefits of Visa-Free Travel
Visa-free travel offers numerous advantages for UAE citizens:
- Ease of Planning: Spontaneous trips become much more feasible without the need to go through lengthy visa application processes.
- Cost Savings: Eliminating visa fees and the associated paperwork can significantly reduce the overall cost of travel.
- Increased Mobility: Visa-free access encourages more frequent travel, be it for tourism, business, or short visits.
- Cultural Exchange: Easier access promotes a greater exchange of culture, ideas, and economic benefits between countries.
UAE Visa-Free Countries List 2024
The UAE currently grants visa exemptions to a number of countries. Citizens of other countries can either apply for a visa at the airport or apply for a UAE tourist visa. Upon arrival in the UAE, citizens of the GCC simply need to present their passport or ID card. Visas and sponsors are not required.
The following countries are visa-free for UAE entry:
90 Days:
Europe
| Country | Entry Type |
|---|---|
| Andorra | Visa-free |
| Austria | Visa-free |
| Belarus | Visa-free |
| Belgium | Visa-free |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | Visa-free |
| Bulgaria | Visa-free |
| Croatia | Visa-free |
| Cyprus | Visa-free |
| Czech Republic | Visa-free |
| Denmark | Visa-free |
| Estonia | Visa-free |
| Finland | Visa-free |
| France | Visa-free |
| Georgia | Visa-free |
| Germany | Visa-free |
| Greece | Visa-free |
| Hungary | Visa-free |
| Iceland | Visa-free |
| Ireland | Visa-free |
| Italy | Visa-free |
| Latvia | Visa-free |
| Liechtenstein | Visa-free |
| Lithuania | Visa-free |
| Luxembourg | Visa-free |
| Malta | Visa-free |
| Monaco | Visa-free |
| Montenegro | Visa-free |
| Netherlands | Visa-free |
| Norway | Visa-free |
| Poland | Visa-free |
| Portugal | Visa-free |
| Romania | Visa-free |
| Russia | Visa-free |
| San Marino | Visa-free |
| Serbia | Visa-free |
| Slovakia | Visa-free |
| Slovenia | Visa-free |
| Spain | Visa-free |
| Sweden | Visa-free |
| Switzerland | Visa-free |
| Ukraine | Visa-free |
| United Kingdom | Visa-free |
| Vatican | Visa-free |
Asia
| Country | Visa Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bahrain | Visa-free | Short stays up to 90 days, renewable once |
| Israel | Visa-free | Stays up to 90 days for tourism or business |
| Kuwait | Visa on arrival/eVisa | Up to 90 days stay |
| Maldives | Visa on arrival | 30 days on arrival, extendable up to 90 days |
| Oman | Visa-free | Stays usually up to 90 days days |
| Qatar | Visa-free | Up to 90 days, extendable for a similar period |
| Saudi Arabia | Visa-free/eVisa | eVisa for tourism allows for multiple entries within a year |
North America
| Country | Type of Access | Duration of Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Bahamas | Visa-free | 90 dayss |
| Barbados | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Costa Rica | Visa-free | 90 days |
| El Salvador | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Mexico | Visa-free | 90 days |
| Nauru | Visa on arrival | 90 days |
South America
| Country | Visa Requirement for UAE Citizens |
|---|---|
| Argentina | Visa-free |
| Brazil | Visa-free |
| Chile | Visa-free |
| Colombia | Visa-free |
| Honduras | Visa-free |
| Paraguay | Visa-free |
| Peru | Visa-free |
Oceania
| Country | Visa Requirement | Duration of Stay | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kiribati | Visa-Free | Up to 90 days | No visa required for short visits |
| Solomon Islands | Visa on Arrival | Up to 90 days | Obtain visa upon arrival |
30 days
Europe
| Country | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Ireland | Visa-Free for UAE |
| United Kingdom | Visa-Free for UAE |
Asia
| Country | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Brunei Darussalam | Visa-Free |
| China | Visa Required |
| Hong Kong | Visa-Free |
| Japan | Visa-Free |
| Kazakhstan | Visa Required |
| Malaysia | Visa-Free |
| Singapore | Visa-Free |
North America
| Country | Visa Requirement | Duration of Stay | Entry Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) | Up to 30 days | Must apply for eTA online before travel |
| United States | ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) | Up to 30 days | Must apply for ESTA online before travel |
Oceania
| Country | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Australia | Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for UAE citizens allows for easy entry for up to 30 days. |
| New Zealand | Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for UAE citizens allows for easy entry for up to 30 days. |
Tips for Visa-Free Travel
To ensure a smooth trip to these visa-free countries, consider the following tips:
- Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Stay Informed: Always check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before traveling.
- Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health, travel cancellations, and theft.
- Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws, customs, and etiquette to avoid any inconveniences or legal issues.
- Health Precautions: Depending on the destination, you may need certain vaccinations or health precautions.
Read Also
- ICP Smart Service
- Emirates ID Fine Check
- UAE Overstay Fine Check
- Apply for a New Emirates ID Card
- UAE Visa Cancellation
- Emirate ID Card Status
FAQs About UAE Visa Free Countries
How many countries can UAE visit without visa?
There are 180 countries around the world where United Arab Emirates passport holders can travel visa-free, or obtain visas-on-arrival, or eTAs. Our comprehensive guide provides detailed information on the destinations where United Arab Emirates passport holders can travel visa-free.
Can I stay in UAE without visa?
Even if you are transiting through Abu Dhabi, you may need to apply for a visa if you plan to visit the UAE. A UAE Transit Visa allows you to visit the country for up to 96 hours and a UAE Tourist Visa allows you to stay up to 60 days. Applying for a UAE visa is simple and fast.
Can I stay in UAE without visa?
Even if you’re just transiting through Abu Dhabi, you may need a visa if you plan to visit the UAE. Obtain a UAE Transit Visa for up to 96 hours or a UAE Tourist Visa for up to 60 days and enjoy a quick and easy visit to the country we call home.
Conclusion
With a passport ranking 31st globally, UAE nationals enjoy visa-free access to 140 countries, streamlining travel and opening doors to diverse experiences worldwide. For countries requiring visas, advance applications remain necessary, but the extensive list of visa-free destinations continues to reflect the UAE’s strong diplomatic presence and the high value of its passport on the international stage.
