Foreign nationals living in GCC countries must now obtain a UAE e-visa before travelling to the UAE, the UAE Digital Government has confirmed. The new requirement applies to residents of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman — and marks a significant shift in UAE travel rules for GCC-based expats.
What Is the UAE e-Visa for GCC Residents?
The e-visa allows eligible GCC residents to enter the UAE and stay for up to 30 days from the date of entry. The permit can be extended once for an additional 30 days, giving travellers a maximum stay of 60 days per visit.
Applications must be submitted through one of two official channels:
- GDRFA Dubai — the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - ICP smart platform — the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security
Once the visa is approved, applicants receive a confirmation email with the visa attached.
Visa Conditions and Requirements
Before applying, GCC-based residents should check the following conditions carefully:
- GCC Resident Validity: The e-visa grants a 30-day stay from the date of entry, with one possible 30-day extension. - GCC Companion Validity: Companions of GCC citizens receive a 60-day entry permit, also extendable once. - Residency Requirements: The GCC residency permit must be valid for at least one year at the time of entry into the UAE. - Passport Validity: The passport must remain valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry. - Profession Change: The e-visa is automatically cancelled if the holder changes their profession after the visa has been issued.
Family members, dependants, and domestic staff travelling under a GCC resident's sponsorship may only enter the UAE if accompanied by their sponsor.
How Much Does the UAE e-Visa Cost?
The e-visa fee for GCC residents is AED 253 (AED 250 plus 5% VAT), payable at the time of application through the official GDRFA or ICP channels.
UAE Transit Visa Options
The UAE also provides two short-stay transit visas for travellers passing through UAE airports:
- 48-hour transit visa: Free of charge, single entry, issued through UAE national airlines and smart platforms. - 96-hour transit visa: Available at a fee of AED 50, also a single-entry permit.
Both transit visas must be arranged in advance through UAE national airlines or the relevant smart channels and are not renewable.
Why This Change Matters
These measures align with the UAE's broader effort to streamline border security while maintaining welcoming travel conditions for GCC residents. The shift to a mandatory e-visa process ensures standardised entry procedures across all GCC nationalities residing outside their home countries.
GCC residents planning a trip to the UAE are advised to apply well in advance to avoid delays at the border.
