Dubai Visa on Arrival 2026: Eligible Countries, Rules & Application Guide

Dubai continues to attract millions of tourists each year with its skyscrapers, luxury malls, cultural landmarks, and vibrant lifestyle. If you’re planning a trip in 2026, understanding the Dubai Visa on Arrival rules is essential. Depending on your nationality, you may qualify for a visa issued directly at the airport, saving you time and paperwork.

This guide explains everything about the Dubai Visa on Arrival — eligible countries, duration, fees, documents, and alternatives for travelers who want a smoother, more reliable process.

What Is a Dubai Visa on Arrival?

A Visa on Arrival (VOA) allows travelers from eligible countries to obtain a visa directly at Dubai International Airport without applying in advance. While convenient for last-minute or unplanned trips, it does come with potential risks such as long queues, additional scrutiny, or unexpected rejections.

Eligible Countries for Dubai Visa on Arrival in 2026

Depending on nationality, visitors can obtain visas valid for 30 days, 90 days, or 180 days.

30-Day Visa on Arrival Countries

Citizens of these countries can receive a 30-day free visa on arrival (extendable once):

Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Kazakhstan, Macau, Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, San Marino, Singapore, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City.

90-Day Visa on Arrival Countries

Citizens of these countries receive a 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival, valid for six months from issue, allowing up to 90 days stay:

Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Uruguay.

180-Day Visa on Arrival Eligibility

Citizens of Mexico are entitled to a 180-day multiple-entry visa, valid for six months, with a maximum stay of 180 days.

Dubai Immigration Process for Visa on Arrival Travelers

• Travelers may be asked to undergo random eye-screening tests at immigration.

• A printed copy of your visa confirmation may be required. If not, a fee of AED 30 applies to print it at the airport.

• Processing time can take 30–60 minutes, depending on queues.

UAE Visa on Arrival for GCC Residents in 2026

• GCC nationals (citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia) can enter the UAE without a visa.

• GCC residents (non-citizens with valid residency permits) must apply for a UAE visa online before traveling.

Dubai Visa Options for Indian Nationals in 2026

Indian passport holders with:

• A valid US visa or Green Card, or

• A valid UK/EU residence permit,

can obtain a 14-day visa on arrival for a fee of AED 120 (extendable once for AED 250).

For longer stays, applying for a pre-approved Dubai visa online is the recommended option.

Duration of Stay Under UAE Visa on Arrival

• Tourist visas: Up to 30 days.

• Transit visas: 48 hours or 96 hours.

• Employment visas: Issued separately and must be converted to a residency permit.

Dubai Transit Visa Rules 2026

48-Hour Transit Visa

• Free of charge.

• Non-extendable.

• Sponsored only by UAE-based airlines.

96-Hour Transit Visa

• AED 50 fee.

• Non-extendable.

• Must be arranged before arrival through your airline.

Countries Exempt from Transit Visa

Nationals of GCC countries — Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia — do not need a transit visa. Mexican citizens are also exempt, with entry allowed up to 180 days visa-free.

Required Documents for Visa on Arrival in Dubai

• Passport valid for at least 6 months.

• Confirmed return or onward flight ticket.

• Proof of accommodation booking or host details.

• Financial means (if requested by immigration).

Risks of Relying on Visa on Arrival Only

While visa on arrival may seem convenient, it carries risks:

• Long airport queues after long-haul flights.

• Rejection risk if documents are missing or unclear.

• No guarantee of entry even if eligible.

• Unexpected fees or short validity periods.

For a hassle-free trip, most travelers prefer applying for a Dubai eVisa online before travel.

Why Choose Dubai Visa Center for Hassle-Free Travel?

At Dubai Visa Center, we simplify your journey:

• 100% approval-focused processing with expert document checks.

• Quick turnaround — visas issued in 24–72 hours.

• Secure payment options and 24/7 customer support.

• Assistance for all nationalities, including those not eligible for visa on arrival.

👉 Apply now through Dubai Visa Center and receive your approved Dubai visa by email before you fly.