UAE expands visa-on-arrival scheme to six countries, only 2 African nations included
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa-on-arrival programme to include nationals of six countries, with Kenya and South Africa becoming the only African nations on the updated list.
Eligible travellers can obtain either a 14-day or 60-day visa on arrival, depending on the purpose and length of their visit.
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Countries eligible for UAE visa on arrival
According to an announcement by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, nationals of the following countries are covered:
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Thailand
- The Philippines
- Kenya
- South Africa
Their accompanying family members are also covered under the arrangement.
However, eligibility comes with an additional requirement. Travellers must hold an ordinary passport and a valid residence permit issued by one of the following countries:
- United States
- European Union member state
- United Kingdom
- Singapore
- Japan
- South Korea
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Canada
The UAE described the move as part of its flexible entry and residency framework, aimed at facilitating travel and providing a smoother experience for visitors.
For African travellers, the update means eligible Kenyans and South Africans who live or work in any of the qualifying countries can obtain their UAE visa on arrival instead of applying beforehand.
However, citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt and other African countries not included in the announcement will continue to follow the standard UAE visa application process.
The development is therefore particularly relevant to Kenyan and South African passport holders who meet the residence permit requirement.
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