Mandatory E-Visa Now Required for GCC Residents Visiting UAE

In a new regulatory update, the UAE Digital Government has mandated that all foreign residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) prior to entry into the UAE. Effective immediately, this policy aims to streamline and secure entry processes, offering increased structure and predictability for visitors while reinforcing border control measures.

The newly introduced eVisa is accessible through the UAE's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or via the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) portal. Upon approval, the visa is sent directly to the applicant's registered email address, ensuring swift digital access and minimizing paperwork.

The eVisa grants GCC residents a 30-day stay within the UAE, with the option to extend their stay by an additional 30 days. Accompanying companions or dependents are also eligible for an extended stay of up to 60 days, though they, too, must adhere to the pre-arrival eVisa requirement. Notably, dependents will only be issued an entry permit if they travel with their sponsoring family member.

The UAE Digital Government has outlined essential prerequisites and conditions for GCC residents to qualify for the eVisa, including permit validity of 30 days from insurance and passport validity of minimum six months from the date of arrival in the UAE.

This new electronic visa process brings added convenience to GCC residents by providing a digital application system that is easy to navigate, while also enforcing compliance with the UAE’s travel and residency standards.