Visa on Arrival: For UAE residents who love to travel, the world is becoming more accessible. Thanks to the strength of the UAE passport and residence permit, many countries now offer visa-on-arrival privileges to UAE residents, regardless of their nationality. This makes international travel smoother, faster, and more spontaneous.
We’ll explore the top visa-on-arrival countries for UAE residents in 2025, what you need to know before you travel, documents required, and travel tips to make the most of this benefit.
Visa on Arrival Countries for UAE Residents 2025
What Is Visa on Arrival?
A visa on arrival is a type of travel authorisation granted when you arrive at your destination country. Unlike traditional visas that must be obtained before departure, a visa on arrival is issued at the border or airport, usually after payment of a fee and a short check.
For UAE residents, this benefit is often available because of UAE residency status, even if the traveller’s original passport would normally require a pre-approved visa.
Why UAE Residents Get Visa on Arrival
Many countries recognise the UAE’s strong security protocols, advanced immigration system, and high-income expat population, making UAE residents attractive and low-risk travellers.
Reasons include:
The UAE residency card implies strong ties to the Gulf region.
Financial stability and travel history of UAE residents.
Bilateral agreements between the UAE and other nations.
Top Visa on Arrival Countries for UAE Residents
Below is a list of popular destinations offering visas on arrival for UAE residents as of 2025:
1. Georgia
Stay Duration: 90 days
Documents Required: Passport, UAE residence visa, return ticket
Why Visit: Mountains, culture, budget-friendly
2. Azerbaijan
Stay Duration: 30 days
Available at: Baku Airport
Tip: Visa on arrival only if arriving via direct flight from UAE
3. Maldives
Stay Duration: 30 days (extendable)
Documents Required: Hotel booking, return flight, passport
Why Visit: Honeymooners’ paradise, clear blue waters
4. Armenia
Stay Duration: 120 days
No prior approval required for UAE residents
Why Visit: Rich history, delicious food, ancient monasteries
5. Indonesia (Bali)
Stay Duration: 30 days
Fee: Approx. $35 USD at airport
Why Visit: Nature, beaches, temples, affordable stays
6. Nepal
Stay Duration: 90 days
Available at: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
Why Visit: Himalayas, adventure trekking, spiritual tourism
7. Sri Lanka
Stay Duration: 30 days
Visa Type: Visa on arrival with Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Why Visit: Beaches, wildlife, tea plantations
8. Seychelles
Stay Duration: 90 days
Entry Permit on arrival: No visa fees
Why Visit: Luxury island travel, visa-free entry for UAE residents
9. Thailand
Stay Duration: 30 days
Fee: Approx. 2,000 THB
Why Visit: Nightlife, food, temples, markets
Note: Thai authorities often request proof of sufficient funds
10. Kenya
Stay Duration: 90 days
Available to: UAE residents of all nationalities
Why Visit: Wildlife safaris, Great Rift Valley, culture
Documents Required for Visa on Arrival
Although these countries provide visas on arrival for UAE residents, you’ll still need some basic documents:
Valid passport (usually 6 months minimum validity)
UAE residence visa copy or Emirates ID
Return flight ticket
Hotel reservation or accommodation details
Travel insurance (recommended)
Proof of funds (for some countries)
Travel Tips for UAE Residents Using Visa on Arrival
Carry printed copies of your documents, even if you have them digitally.
Double-check requirements with the embassy or airline before travel.
Arrive early at immigration desks, especially in airports with fewer staff.
Carry cash in the local currency for visa fees.
Respect visa rules; overstaying even one day may lead to fines or blacklisting.
What If Visa on Arrival Isn’t Offered?
Some countries don’t offer visas on arrival for UAE residents but may provide e-visas or visa-free access for UAE passport holders or certain nationalities. Always research your destination’s most up-to-date travel policies through official government or embassy websites.
Important Reminders
Visa on arrival is not a guarantee of entry. Immigration officers have the right to deny entry.
Keep your UAE residence visa valid and current at the time of travel.
If your passport and UAE visa are in separate documents, carry both together.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to the UAE’s global reputation and strong bilateral ties, residents of the Emirates enjoy incredible travel flexibility. Whether you’re planning a beach holiday in the Maldives or a cultural trip to Georgia, visa-on-arrival options make travel planning much easier.
By understanding where you can go, what documents to carry, and how to follow immigration procedures, you can enjoy hassle-free trips across dozens of countries without the wait for visa approvals.