What To Know
- The policy must provide coverage of at least 30,000 Georgian Lari (approximately Dhs41,000) and be available in Georgian or English, either in physical or electronic format.
- Normally costing around Dhs25 and requiring up to three days for approval, the K-ETA requirement is currently waived for eligible passport holders, including UAE nationals and residents from several approved countries.
- From February 26, 2026, travellers heading to the United Kingdom who do not require a traditional visa must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
With multiple public holidays lined up in 2026, many Dubai residents are planning their next international getaway. However, several popular travel destinations have introduced new visa policies, entry requirements or extended exemptions that travellers need to know about before booking flights.
Here are seven major visa and travel rule changes affecting Dubai travellers in 2026.
1) China Extends Visa-Free Policy
China has extended its unilateral visa-free policy for nationals of 43 countries until the end of 2026. Recently, Canada and the United Kingdom were added to the eligible list.
Visitors from approved countries can travel visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, exchanges and transit purposes.
This update makes short-term travel to cities like Beijing and Shanghai easier for eligible passport holders.
2) GCC to Introduce Schengen-Style Unified Visa
The Gulf Cooperation Council is preparing to launch a Schengen-style unified visa, officially named “GCC Grand Tours.”
The visa will allow easier movement between the six GCC countries: United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.
Travellers will be able to apply online through a unified digital platform once the system launches. The new visa aims to simplify regional tourism and cross-border travel across the Gulf.
3) Georgia Requires Mandatory Travel Insurance
From January 1, 2026, all tourists entering Georgia must hold valid health and accident insurance.
The policy must provide coverage of at least 30,000 Georgian Lari (approximately Dhs41,000) and be available in Georgian or English, either in physical or electronic format.
Georgia remains a popular visa-free destination for UAE residents, but travellers must now ensure they meet the insurance requirement before arrival.
4) Mongolia Extends Visa Exemption Policy
Mongolia has extended its visa exemption programme for nationals of 34 countries until early 2027.
Eligible travellers can stay for up to 30 days without arranging a visa in advance.
This extension provides additional flexibility for those planning trips to Mongolia’s natural landscapes and cultural sites.
5) South Korea Extends K-ETA Exemption
South Korea has extended its temporary exemption from the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation) for selected visa-free nationalities until the end of 2026.
Normally costing around Dhs25 and requiring up to three days for approval, the K-ETA requirement is currently waived for eligible passport holders, including UAE nationals and residents from several approved countries.
This move simplifies travel to Seoul and other destinations across South Korea.
6) UK Introduces Mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation
From February 26, 2026, travellers heading to the United Kingdom who do not require a traditional visa must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
The ETA is a digital permit required for short visits of up to six months. Applications are completed online and are faster than traditional visa processes.
British and Irish passport holders, as well as those with valid UK residence rights, are exempt from this requirement.
7) USA Introduces Priority Visa Appointments for Football Fans
Ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, the US will introduce priority visa appointments for football fans.
While there is no dedicated World Cup visa category, eligible applicants will benefit from prioritised processing to support tournament travel.
Travellers are encouraged to apply early due to increased demand and tighter border procedures.
Final Reminder for Dubai Travellers
With visa rules and entry conditions constantly evolving, Dubai travellers should always check official government sources or airline updates before departure.
Staying informed about new visa policies, insurance requirements and electronic travel authorisations can help avoid delays, denied boarding or entry issues in 2026.
