Eligible expatriates living in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can apply for a UAE eVisa before travelling, making it easier to visit the Emirates without going through the traditional visa application process. The electronic entry permit is available to qualifying residents of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, allowing them to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days, with the option to extend their stay once for an additional 30 days, subject to approval.
The UAE eVisa is available to qualifying expatriates living in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Once approved, the entry permit allows visitors to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days, subject to approval.
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Check visa-on-arrival eligibility first
Before applying for an eVisa, travellers are advised to confirm whether they qualify for a UAE visa on arrival.
The UAE offers visa-on-arrival facilities to citizens of more than 80 countries. Those eligible do not need to apply for a GCC resident eVisa before travelling.
Who is eligible for the UAE GCC resident eVisa?
Foreign nationals holding a valid GCC residence permit may apply for the UAE eVisa if they meet the following conditions:
- Hold a GCC residence permit with at least one year of validity remaining.
- Have a passport or travel document valid for at least six months.
- Work in an eligible profession approved by UAE authorities.
- Have no restrictions preventing entry into the UAE.
- Obtain approval from the relevant UAE authorities before travelling.
Documents required
Applicants must submit the following documents as part of the online application:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- A copy of the GCC residence permit or valid GCC ID showing the applicant’s profession and residency validity.
- A recent passport-sized photograph with a white background.
- Any additional documents requested by UAE authorities, if applicable.
How to apply online
Eligible GCC residents can apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai online portal by following these steps:
- Register for a new account on the GDRFA smart services portal.
- Select the GCC Resident Entry Permit service.
- Complete the online application with personal and travel details.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the applicable visa fees.
- Receive the approved eVisa by email before travelling.
Travellers planning to enter emirates other than Dubai—including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah—must submit their application through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) online platform.
UAE eVisa fees
The GCC residents’ entry permit costs:
- Dh250 visa fee.
- Five per cent VAT.
- Additional service charges may apply depending on the application channel.
Validity and extension
The UAE GCC resident entry permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Once the traveller enters the UAE, the permit allows a stay of up to 30 days. Visitors may apply for a one-time extension of another 30 days, subject to approval by the relevant authorities.
Can travel agencies submit applications?
Yes. GCC residents may also apply for a UAE visit visa through authorised travel agencies.
Depending on the type of visa required, travel agencies can assist with the application process and, where applicable, arrange visa sponsorship for eligible travellers.
Also Read: GCC Unified Visa vs eVisa: 5 Key Insights UAE Travellers Must Know
