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Traveling to the vibrant destinations of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah has become significantly easier as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announces a major expansion of its visa-on-arrival program. Starting on June 25, 2026, this initiative will welcome six new nationalities, including Kenya, South Africa, Vietnam, and three others, enhancing the accessibility of this sought-after global tourist destination.
This policy update aims to bolster tourism from pivotal Asian and African markets while simplifying travel arrangements for visitors holding visas, residence permits, or green cards from a range of recognized countries.
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According to the new regulations, travelers from the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Kenya, and South Africa will now be able to obtain a UAE visa upon arrival, granted they meet specified eligibility criteria.
To qualify, travelers must hold a valid visa, residence permit, or green card issued by one of 34 designated countries, which include popular travel and immigration hubs like the United States, United Kingdom, European Union member states, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea.
The elimination of the need for a pre-departure visa significantly streamlines the travel experience from booking through to arrival.
This expansion arrives at a crucial time, as the UAE continues to draw increasing numbers of international visitors eager to explore everything from leisure and shopping to culture and business opportunities.
Dubai stands out as a premier global tourism hub, famed for its luxurious hotels, stunning beaches, shopping havens, exciting theme parks, and distinctive skyline. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi captivates visitors with its rich cultural institutions, heritage sites, waterfront attractions, and major international events.
Sharjah has established itself as a center for cultural tourism, museums, and family-oriented experiences, while Ras Al Khaimah has garnered attention thanks to its breathtaking mountain landscapes, adventure tourism offerings, and burgeoning resort industry.
By easing entry protocols, the UAE is facilitating the exploration of multiple emirates during a single visit for many eligible travelers.
The recent changes also bring significant advantages for Indian passport holders, who represent one of the UAE’s largest visitor demographics.
Previously, Indian nationals had access to visa-on-arrival privileges only if they possessed valid visas or residency permits from the United States, the United Kingdom, or EU countries. The revised program now acknowledges valid visas and residency permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea, broadening the available pathways for entry.
These expanded criteria are expected to positively impact numerous Indian travelers who reside, work, or frequently commute through those nations and wish to visit the UAE for tourism, family gatherings, or short business engagements.
In addition to the increased number of eligible nationalities, the UAE is offering new visa-on-arrival stay options. Visitors can choose from:
This extended stay option provides greater flexibility for travelers considering longer vacations, family visits, or multi-destination journeys throughout the Emirates. For those interested in exploring multiple emirates rather than limiting themselves to one city, the 60-day option enhances convenience and travel freedom.
The successful implementation of this expanded visa-on-arrival program is closely tied to the UAE’s extensive international air network. Dubai International Airport, Abu Dhabi’s airports, and Sharjah International Airport link the country to hundreds of global destinations across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Many travelers from the newly included countries typically use the UAE as a transit hub for international trips. The updated entry policy is expected to encourage more stopover visits as well as extended stays, thereby generating additional tourism activity throughout the nation.
Visa regulations significantly influence destination selection for leisure travelers, particularly those seeking ease and flexibility. The option to secure a visa upon arrival helps reduce travel planning time and facilitates spontaneous or short-notice trips.
For destinations dependent on tourism, simplified entry processes can bolster visitor growth by eliminating administrative hurdles that might deter potential travelers. The UAE’s recent changes reflect a dedicated focus on accessibility, allowing a greater number of internationally mobile travelers to visit without needing a pre-departure visa application.
June 25, 2026 – Expansion of the UAE’s visa-on-arrival program comes into effect.
June 25, 2026 – Nationals from the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Kenya, and South Africa gain eligibility.
June 25, 2026 – New qualifying visa and residency categories are introduced for Indian nationals.
Travelers from the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Kenya, and South Africa are now eligible.
Travelers must possess a valid visa, residence permit, or green card issued by one of the 34 approved countries.
Visitors can opt for a 14-day visa-on-arrival for Dh100 or a non-extendable 60-day visa-on-arrival for Dh250.
June 25, 2026 – The UAE’s expanded visa-on-arrival program is officially launched.
The UAE’s expanded visa-on-arrival programme marks a landmark step in facilitating travel for visitors from Kenya, South Africa, Vietnam, and beyond while enhancing opportunities for Indian nationals through broader recognition of various visas and residency permits. With streamlined entry procedures, new stay options, and access to diverse destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, this initiative not only reinforces the UAE’s appeal as an international travel hotspot but also fosters greater tourism connectivity across the Emirates.
Source: The post Kenya Joins South Africa, Vietnam and Three Other Nations as UAE Expands its New Visa-on-Arrival Programme in 2026 first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
