At StartupUAE, we understand that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) boasts a population where expatriates constitute nearly 85%. With its rapidly expanding economy, abundant oil and gas reserves, favorable tax policies, and progressive government, the UAE presents an optimal environment for foreign investment and business growth. Leveraging these competitive advantages necessitates a journey to the UAE, and securing a tourist visa for the nation need not be a daunting task. Our comprehensive PRO services ensure that navigating the requirements and procedures, including obtaining a tourist visa, is streamlined and hassle-free, even for those unfamiliar with the process.

But worry not, as we’ve got you covered. Continue reading for the ultimate guide to obtaining a tourist visa for the UAE.

VISITING THE UAE Situated on the Arabian Peninsula, the UAE shares borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia, with the majority of its land covered by desert. However, Dubai, the UAE’s major city, stands out as an oasis. Renowned for its modern architecture, vibrant culture, and luxury shopping, Dubai remains an attractive destination. Even in 2020, amidst a global pandemic, Dubai welcomed over 5.5 million tourists who flocked to enjoy its year-round sunshine.

And there are plenty of reasons for this popularity.

Dubai offers some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, a captivating blend of modernity and traditional Arabic culture, and world-class attractions. Visitors can experience the marvels of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, ride camels across massive sand dunes, swim with dolphins, or simply relax on the golden sandy beaches. The options are truly limitless for avid vacationers.

DUBAI – AN ENTREPRENEUR’S PARADISE Dubai, however, offers more than just a vacation spot. It has earned the title of the ‘world’s business hub,’ serving as a bridge between Eastern and Western economies. With its abundant oil and natural gas reserves, Dubai has successfully diversified its economy, making it an enticing location for business. Its stable government and access to vast populations across Asia, Africa, and Europe contribute to its appeal. Additionally, Dubai’s zero-tax regime and the ability to repatriate 100% of company profits in certain jurisdictions further enhance its attractiveness.

In 2019, the UAE government announced the allowance of complete foreign ownership in specific sectors and business zones throughout the country. Sectors like hospitality, manufacturing, and renewable energy were among those designated. However, it’s important to note that each jurisdiction within the UAE has its own rules regarding foreign-owned businesses. Therefore, the freedoms mentioned might not apply universally. With 60 different jurisdictions, navigating these complexities can be challenging. Fortunately, we’re here to assist you.

At StartupUAE, our process is straightforward, which is why we are the preferred partner for entrepreneurs establishing businesses in the UAE. Despite the conditions and paperwork involved, foreign investors continue to choose the UAE. Why not join them?

As you’ll see, obtaining a tourist visa to embark on your new business journey can be a simplified process.

PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS Obtaining a UAE tourist visa is a straightforward process if you possess the required documents. However, different rules apply to citizens of different countries. It’s crucial to be aware of the regulations that apply to your country.

The following guide provides an overview of the available tourist visa options for expats planning to travel to the UAE. Keep in mind that travel regulations and rules are subject to change due to the pandemic. Before applying for a visa or booking flights, it’s advisable to double-check the current UAE travel restrictions. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to us. We’re always here to provide the latest travel and business formation advice.

UAE Visa Options for Travelers

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers different visa options depending on your country of citizenship. The simplest, most cost-effective, and straightforward option is the visa on arrival, available to citizens of specific countries. If you are eligible for this visa, it is highly recommended to take advantage of it.

The duration of the visa on arrival varies based on your passport’s country of issuance. Eligible citizens must present a passport with at least six months of validity remaining. If your passport has less than six months of validity, it is necessary to obtain a new passport before traveling to the UAE.

If you hold a passport from one of the following countries, you are eligible for a 30-day visa on arrival:

• Andorra
• Australia
• Brunei
• Canada
• China
• Hong Kong
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• Macau
• Malaysia
• Mauritius
• Monaco
• New Zealand
• The Republic of Ireland
• San Marino
• Singapore
• Ukraine
• The United Kingdom and Northern Ireland
• The United States of America
• Vatican City

Passport holders from the above countries can obtain the UAE visa on arrival free of charge. It’s important to note that this is a single-entry visa.

Alternatively, if you hold a passport from one of the following countries, you can obtain a 90-day, multiple-entry visa on arrival, also free of charge:

• Argentina
• Austria
• The Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belgium
• Brazil
• Bulgaria
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• The Czech Republic
• Denmark
• El Salvador
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Honduras
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Kiribati
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• The Maldives
• Malta
• Montenegro
• Nauru
• The Netherlands
• Norway
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Russian Federation
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• San Marino
• Serbia
• Seychelles
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Uruguay

Mexican citizens can obtain a 180-day, multiple-entry visa on arrival. To be eligible, you must present plane tickets, health insurance, and a hotel reservation. As mentioned earlier, your passport must also have at least six months of validity remaining.

Indian passport holders have slightly different rules. If you are an Indian citizen, you can obtain a 14-day visa on arrival if you can present one of the following:

• A USA-issued visit visa valid for at least six months
• A USA-issued green card valid for at least six months
• Evidence of holding a UK or EU residence

The cost of this visa is AED 120, approximately USD 33.

If you are an Indian passport holder and cannot provide any of the above-mentioned documentation, you will need to apply for a prearranged tourist visa.

UAE Prearranged Tourist Visas

If your country is not listed above, you will need to apply for a prearranged tourist visa. Several options are available, depending on the desired length of stay in the UAE. However, your passport must have at least three months of validity remaining.

To apply for a prearranged visa, you will need the following:

• A color copy of your passport
• A color photograph of yourself
• An application form
• A copy of your plane ticket

One-Year Remote Working Visa

The UAE implemented a remote working visa program last year, allowing digital nomads who work from home due to the pandemic to do so from the UAE.

Both foreign employees and foreign business owners are eligible to apply for this visa. In theory, it is open to passport holders from all countries.

Previously, individuals would have needed sponsorship from an Emirati national or employment in the UAE to spend an extended period in the country. This visa eliminates those requirements, opening up the UAE to a larger population of foreign workers.

However, it’s important to note that this visa does not permit the establishment of a business in the UAE. If your goal is to start a business in the country, the one-year remote working visa may not be suitable for you.

Nevertheless, if you desire an extended experience of life in the UAE before deciding whether to set up your business there, this visa could be a favorable option.

Spending a year building business relationships while working remotely can be a beneficial step towards your new life as an entrepreneur in the UAE.

The application for the remote working visa costs USD 287. Additional expenses include UAE health insurance and ID fees, which may vary. Overall, you can expect to spend over USD 600.

To apply for this visa, you will need a passport with at least six months of validity and UAE health insurance.

Employees should also provide the following documents:

• Proof of employment
• A work contract with a duration of at least one year
• Evidence of a monthly salary not less than USD 5,000
• Three months of bank statements

Business owners should also provide the following documents:

• Proof of business ownership for a minimum of one year
• Average monthly income of no less than USD 5,000
• Three months of bank statements

Investor and Entrepreneur Residency Visas

If you decide to establish your business in the UAE, the Golden Visa program may be the ideal option for you. This program is specifically designed for expat investors and entrepreneurs, offering 5- and 10-year visa options.

Unlike other long-term UAE visa options, applicants for the Golden Visa program do not require a national sponsor. Successful applicants can travel freely to and from the UAE and include family members and executives in the visa.

It’s important to note that the Golden Visa program has several complex conditions attached. If you choose this route, it is recommended to contact our friendly team who can guide you through the application process.

Dubai Immigration Procedures

Assuming you have obtained all the necessary visas and documentation, the immigration process at Dubai airport is extremely streamlined. Similar to Dubai’s architecture, this process relies on state-of-the-art technology and innovation.

Instead of encountering border patrol staff upon arrival, you will pass through an electronic gate. These e-gates enable you to register your identity, present your passport and documentation, and scan your retina.

Although unlikely, you may be randomly selected for screening. If this occurs, you will need to present evidence of your visa. A fee of AED 30 may apply if you do not have a physical copy of your visa confirmation number.

Apply for a Tourist Visa UAE

Are you ready to embark on your next business venture in the UAE? Take advantage of the highly diversified economy and establish your new business in a world-class business center at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Does it sound like a sound investment? Absolutely!

Before finalizing your business plan and applying for a tourist visa UAE, get in touch with one of our experts in company formation based in Dubai. We will demonstrate how easy it can be to establish a business in the UAE using the StartupUAE process.