From Seychelles to Thailand, here are the best destinations you can visit from Dubai without the visa hassle
If your wanderlust is bubbling over, it’s time to plan your next getaway.
Just being a UAE resident helps cut down time and effort on acquiring visas. If you possess a valid UAE residence visa, there are several visa-free or visa-on-arrival options you can take advantage of. The best part? They’re all accessible by direct flights from Dubai.
Here’s our full list of visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations for UAE residence visa holders:
Seychelles
From Mahe’s beautiful jungles to Praslin’s green heart – the Vallée de Mai national park – Seychelles has a lot more to offer than its pristine beaches. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. The country, which is just over four hours away, offers visa-free travel for all nationalities from the UAE for a stay of up to 30 days.
Alphonse Island, Seychelles. Photo credit: Dan Maisey/Unsplash
Requirements: Instead of a visa, travellers receive a visitor’s permit on arrival, provided they meet the following requirements – a valid passport, return or onward flight ticket, confirmed accommodation, proof of funds (minimum $150 or Dh550 per day).
Georgia
Georgia. Photo credit: Neil Sengupta/Unsplash
This world-renowned safari destination is home to the twin migration of humpback whales and wildebeests, along with the ‘big five’ – lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and buffalo. If you’re looking for adventure and a whole lot of awe, there’s no better place than Kenya.
Requirements: Although Kenya welcomes travellers from the UAE without the need for visas, you will still need to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) approved at least 72 hours before arrival. The eTA costs approximately $30 (Dh110). Travellers require a passport that’s valid for at least six months from the date of travel, along with a UAE residence visa with at least six-month validity.
Indonesia
Bali, Indonesia. Photo credit: Jeremy Bishop/Unsplash
Bali may be your top pick, but Indonesia’s sprawling archipelago has a host of incredible sights waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re trekking up a volcano, eating plates of gado gado (Indonesian salad with peanut sauce) in a hilltop village, or marvelling at Jakarta’s soaring skyline, there’s something memorable in store for every type of traveller.
Requirements: An electronic visa-on-arrival (e-VoA) allows single entry for citizens of 97 eligible countries, including India and the Philippines. The e-VoA allows travellers to stay for 30 days and must be used within 90 days from the date of issue. You can apply for it online, via the country’s official immigration website.
Maldives
Maldives. Photo credit: Serey Kim/Unsplash
For the best mix of ancient and modern, visit Azerbaijan, a country that sits right between Europe and Asia. Here, you’ll find futuristic buildings next to ancient palaces; you can take a closer look at Gobustan’s ancient rock art or walk by Baku’s visually compelling Flame Towers. Whether it’s culture, nature or bazaar-shopping you’re interested in, there’s plenty to do here.
Requirements: If you have a UAE residence visa, and a passport with a validity of at least four months, you can receive a 30-day tourist visa-on-arrival.
Exceptions: Citizens of Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan require their UAE residence visas to have at least six-month validity, before applying.
Oman
Oman Photo credit: Lena Balk/Unsplash
Oman. Photo credit: Lena Balk/Unsplash
For a quick trip, consider neighbouring Oman, a country with stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring Wadi Ghul, Oman’s version of the Grand Canyon, or stargazing at Wahiba Sands, or even dolphin watching in Musandam, the country offers plenty for visitors.
Requirements: UAE residents can obtain a 30-day visa-on-arrival at Omani airports and at land border crossings, as long as their residence visa is valid for three months or longer.
