UAE Extends Visa-On-Arrival Stay to 90 Days for Citizens of 8 Countries

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made travel a bit easier for visitors from several major countries. Authorities have confirmed that travellers eligible for a Visa-On-Arrival can now stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Australia
• Brazil
• Canada
• China
• Japan
• Singapore
• United Kingdom
• United States

This means you can spend more time in places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah without needing to apply for a long-term visa in advance.

What’s New?

Previously, most of these nationalities were only allowed 30-day visits. Brazilian nationals already had a longer stay, 90 days in a year, but the new rule now puts all these countries on the same page.

There’s still a bit of confusion around whether this means 90 days per entry or if it’s a total of 90 days across multiple entries in 180 days. The official guidance isn’t fully clear yet, so travellers are advised to keep an eye on entry stamps and avoid overstaying.

UAE Visa-On-Arrival Policy

The UAE offers a visa-on-arrival to citizens of more than 70 countries. The rules can vary depending on nationality:

• For many, the stay is currently 30 days with the option to extend.
• For the eight countries just updated, it is now 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Other travellers must arrange for a pre-approved visa before flying.

UAE Visa-On-Arrival Rules By Country

Here’s a simple breakdown for those eligible for a visa-on-arrival in the UAE:

1. Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, Singapore, UK, US

• Stay allowed: 90 days within a 180-day period
• Entry type: Multiple entries
• Extension: Not usually extendable

2. EU Schengen Countries (and a few others)

• Stay allowed: 90 days within a 180-day period
• Entry type: Multiple entries
• Extension: Not allowed

3. Others (e.g. Indian passport holders with a valid US visa, some Eastern European nations)

• Stay allowed: 14 or 30 days
• Entry type: Single or multiple entries
• Extension: Some nationalities may extend

Note: Always check your passport stamp and airline advice before travelling.

Basic Requirements for Visa-on-Arrival Entry

Even if you’re eligible, you still need to meet some basic rules:

• A passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
• A return or onward ticket may be asked for at immigration.
• Proof of accommodation or hotel booking is helpful.
• Make sure you haven’t overstayed during past visits.

If you’re flying into Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, immigration officials may also check your entry history and ask for general travel plans.

UAE Expands Visa-On-Arrival for Indians

Earlier this year, the UAE extended the visa-on-arrival policy for Indian citizens and included 6 new countries to the list, namely Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

This means that Indian citizens holding ordinary passports and valid visas, Residence Permits, or Green Cards from the above-mentioned countries will also be eligible for a visa-on-arrival at all UAE entry points.

What Travellers Should Do

Here’s the thing: rules are still being clarified. So:

• Double-check entry stamps and confirm your allowed stay with immigration officials.
• Avoid back-to-back re-entry attempts, especially if nearing the 90-day limit.
• If you’re planning a longer stay, consider applying for a tourist visa or remote work permit ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

This is good news for frequent travellers and digital nomads who want more time in the UAE without paperwork. But stay cautious. Keep track of your stay and look out for updates, especially since UAE immigration policies can change quickly and without much notice.