New e-Visa Requirement for GCC Residents to Visit UAE: Key Details

In regard to UAE business travel, the UAE Digital Government has declared that all foreign residents from the GCC countries have to secure an e-Visa prior to their arrival into the country. This particular innovation applies to residents of all GCC countries, which is a new addition to travel conditions.

The e-Visa permits the holder to stay in the UAE for one month, which can be extended by one more month once only. In order to submit applications, the applicants have no other choice than to use the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security. After approval of the visa, the applicant will receive a note that the visa has been sent to their email.

Visa Conditions and Requirements:

• GCC Resident Validity: The e-Visa is for 30 days and only permits a 30 day visa for the traveller with provision for renewal for another 30 days.
• GCC Companion Validity: For companions of GCC citizens it is for entry permit for 60 days stay in GCC country which can also be extended once.
• Residency Requirements: The residency of the GCC must be valid and has to be for at least one year upon entry to the UAE.
• Passport Validity: The passport must be valid upon entry and must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the Schengen territory.
• Profession Change: The e-Visa becomes null and void after its issuance if the applicant alters his or her profession in any way.

Per holders of GCC resident permits, any family members or dependents alongside support staff are only able to visa travel in case they are accompanied by their sponsor.

Transit Visas:

The UAE also offers 48 hours and 96 hours transit visa. The 48 hour visa is issued free of charge and is a single-entry visa and the 96-hour visa is charged at a fee of AED 50. Both available only with the UAE’s national airlines and smart platforms.

Such measures are in line with the ongoing process of simplification of measures for crossing borders in terms of security in the UAE.