Travelling To the UAE? Here Is Your Document Checklist

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by Iffat Nawaz

Travelling To the UAE? Here Is Your Document Checklist

27 Aug 2024

Photo: Kurt Z

Are you ready to indulge in the luxuries of Dubai, from extravagant hotels to high-end shopping malls like the Dubai Mall and exclusive experiences like desert safaris and luxury yacht cruises? Or perhaps you are drawn to the UAE's incredible architecture, world-class festivals, and iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa?

With over 22 million international tourists arriving in the UAE in 2022, it is no wonder that the country is investing heavily in the travel and tourism sector. But before you can experience all the UAE offers, one crucial step is preparing the necessary travel documents.

The Sandy Times will help with your UAE travel documentation so you can focus on the fun parts of your trip. From visas to health certificates, we have got you covered. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and travel to UAE.

Ready for the UAE? Ensure your passport is ready, too

Before taking off, ensure your passport is ready for the journey. Here is what you need to know:

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before entry. Otherwise, you risk being denied entry.
Note that 12 page emergency passports are not accepted for entry to the UAE. Make sure you have a valid, full passport.
If your passport has a non binary gender marker, unfortunately, it is not accepted for travel to, in, or through the UAE.
Leave a page free for the entry stamp — you don't want any issues when you arrive at your destination.

Refrain from letting passport problems ground your travel dreams. Double check your documents and get ready for an incredible journey to the UAE.

Photo: Curated Lifestyle

Travel to the UAE with ease: Visa requirements and eligibility

Excited about your upcoming trip to the UAE? Check if you are eligible for a visa upon arrival or if prior application is required.

30 Day visa on arrival

If you are a passport holder from one of the following countries, with a 10 day grace period of extension, you can travel to the UAE without prior visa arrangements:

Andorra
Australia
Brunei
Canada
China
Hong Kong, China
Japan
Kazakhstan
Macau, China
Malaysia
Mauritius
Monaco
Mongolia
New Zealand
Republic of Ireland
Singapore
Ukraine
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland
United States of America
Vatican City

90 Day visa on arrival

Travellers from these countries can obtain a multiple entry 90 day visit visa, with no need for advance visa arrangements:

Albania
Argentina
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahamas Islands
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Bosnia
Brazil
Bulgaria
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
El Salvador
Estonia
Fiji
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Honduras
Hungary
Iceland
Israel
Italy
Kiribati
Kosovo
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Maldives
Malta
Montenegro
Nauru
Netherlands
Norway
Paraguay
Peru
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russian Federation
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
San Marino
Serbia
Seychelles
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Uruguay
Uzbekistan

180 Day visa on arrival

Mexican passport holders can travel to the UAE with a multiple entry 180 day visit visa.

Important Travel Reminders:

It is crucial to ensure that your passport remains valid for at least six months from the date of arrival into the UAE.
Before your travel, verify the current visa requirements with the UAE embassy in your country, as they are subject to change.
Holders of non standard passports and travel documents may have different entry requirements.
GCC residence permit holders need to apply for a UAE visa before arriving in Dubai.

If you are a citizen of a GCC country, you are in luck. You don't need a visa or sponsor to enter the UAE. Just bring your GCC country passport or national ID card, and you are good to go.

Photo: Jason Mrachina

Travel to the UAE: Return ticket requirements for a smooth journey

Book a return ticket with the same airline to ensure a hassle free journey. This is a mandatory requirement for all travellers, regardless of nationality.

Why is a return ticket necessary?

It is a universal rule for travel to any country, not just the UAE.- Tourist visa holders must have a return booking ticket to enter Dubai, Abu Dhabiand other Emiratis.

Tips for travellers

Book your return ticket on the same airline to avoid confusion during emigration procedures.
If you are unsure about your return date, contact a travel agency to make an original booking for return, which can be refundable.
Don't submit dummy tickets, as they may cause issues during boarding.- make sure you have sufficient funds for your stay: 3000 dirhams for a month-long visa and 5000 dirhams for a two-month visa. Credit cards with these limits are also acceptable.
Carry hotel booking documents or provide details of your host's visa, address proof, and Emirates ID if you are staying with friends or relatives.

Following these tips will prepare you for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in the UAE.

Travel to the UAE: Health certificate requirements

Do you intend to relocate to the UAE for work or residence? Make sure you are aware of the health certificate requirements to avoid any hiccups.

What is required?

You need to be free of communicable diseases like HIV and TB.
Certain workers (like those in nurseries, food handlers, and domestic workers) need to test negative for syphilis and Hepatitis B.
Female domestic workers need to test negative for pregnancy.
You will need a chest x-ray to screen for pulmonary tuberculosis.
And, as of 2016, all expats renewing their residence visas need to undergo TB screening.

What happens if you test positive?

If you have scars or active TB, you will get a conditional fitness certificate and a one-year residence visa.
You will need to undergo treatment in the UAE. Get informed, tested, and ready for an incredible adventure.

Photo: Nick Fewings

Travel to the UAE: Vaccination certificates are no longer required

Good tidings for globetrotters. As of February 26, 2022, the UAE has dropped all COVID-19 restrictions, making it easier for you to plan your trip.

What does this mean?

No more PCR tests before flying to the UAE.
Vaccinated or unvaccinated, all travellers are welcome to visit Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other cities without restrictions.
No quarantine requirements, proof of vaccination, or testing requirements to worry about.

To sum up, prepare for the ultimate travel experience in the UAE. Enjoy a seamless and stress free journey to this incredible nation, where exciting experiences await. From marvelling at iconic skyscrapers, indulging in luxurious shopping sprees, and exploring majestic desert landscapes to discovering hidden gems, the UAE's diverse offerings ensure an unforgettable adventure for all.

by Iffat Nawaz