29-05-2025
UAE visa-on-arrival countries: 8 countries for UAE residents to visit
Firming up your travel plans? There is never a bad time to look into a holiday and, with Eid Al Adha coming up, it's as good a time as any to look into a quick getaway.
And if you're in possession of a UAE residency visa, you can visit nine countries without even having to think about applying for a visa.
All you need is yourself, your passport, your residency visa – and maybe a pal and some of your belongings to get to these UAE visa-on-arrival destinations.
So, without further ado, these are the countries you can jet off to completely hassle-free:
UAE visa-on-arrival for UAE residents
Azerbaijan
Candy Cane Mountains Azerbaijan (Credit: Canva)
Azerbaijan, straddling Europe and Asia, is like a crazy combo of modern and ancient vibes. Baku, the capital, is all about futuristic buildings next to ancient spots like the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Sheki's got some mind-blowing palaces, and the mud volcanoes in Gobustan? Pretty incredible. Plus, the food – plov and kebabs that'll make your taste buds party.
Note: You can get a month-long tourist visa-on-arrival at the airport with a UAE residency visa.
Georgia
You can visit Tbilisi for up to 90 days with a visa-on-arrival for UAE residents (Credit: Canva)
Georgia is where the old meets the new, and it's like a mix of beautiful landscapes and warm welcomes. Tbilisi's got those cobblestone streets and an arts scene that's off the charts. Check out Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe for a taste of ancient vibes. Oh, and Georgian grape– it's a must-try.
Note: You can get a 90-day visa-on-arrival visa if you're a UAE resident, but there are exceptions, including Pakistani nationals.
Kenya
(Credit: CanvaPro)
Kenya recently announced a no-visa policy and started welcoming travellers minus visas. Please note that you do need to get Electronic Travel Authorisation approved at least 72 hours before you arrive. It's where you go for – we know, you know – views of the wildlife, the great Serengeti migration and of course luxury retreats.
Note: No visa is needed at all for UAE residents, but you do need an ETA.
Maldives
(Credit: Supplied)
The Maldives is a haven for white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts and turquoise waters. Made up of about 200 inhabited islands and many beautiful resorts, The Maldives is a bucket-list destination for many.
Note: A 30-day tourist visa is available on arrival for all nationalities.
Nepal
(Credit: CanvaPro)
Nepal, the Himalayan wonderland, is where majestic peaks meet fantastic art and culture. Kathmandu's temples and markets are a trip and the trekking trails of Annapurna and Everest? Views that'll humble you. Pokhara's lakeside chill is the perfect escape and the momo and dal bhat? Comfort food, Nepali style.
Note: You can get either 15, 30 or 90-day visa-on-arrival in Nepal if you're a UAE resident, unless your passport is from these 12 countries.
Oman
Oman
Neighbouring Oman is one of the most stunning places you can visit with abundant natural beauty throughout the land. You can see the stunning Musandam Peninsula and the calm of the Wahiba Sands.
Note: UAE residents can get a 30-day visa-on-arrival as long as their UAE residency is valid for the next three months or longer. The GCC Resident visa is dependent on approval of your profession from the Royal Oman Police.
Seychelles
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One of the most beautiful spots on earth hands down. Mahe's beautiful jungles, while Praslin's Vallée de Mai is like nature's secret garden. La Digue's beaches are straight out of a movie. And Seychellois cuisine? A feast with African, French, and Indian flavours that'll make your taste buds dance.
Note: Seychelles is a visa-free country (apart from Kosovo) and you're allowed to get a visitor's permit on arrival provided you have a return ticket, prepaid accommodation and sufficient funds for your stay.
Uzbekistan
(Credit: CanvaPro)
If you are a fan of ancient architecture, you'll enjoy going to Samarkand, a city that once stood on the Silk Route. When here, head to the Registan plaza which is home to three ornate buildings (which also make for great backdrops for photographs). It's also very, very welcoming of tourists so book yourself a homestay, cooking classes or even go yurt camping for an excellent experience.
Note: If you have a UAE residency visa you can stay for up to 30 days in Uzbekistan provided your residency visa is valid for at least 90 days after you enter the country.
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