UAE eVisa for GCC residents: Who qualifies, required documents and how to get approval before travel.
Dubai: GCC residents planning to visit the UAE can apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) before their trip. The UAE eVisa facility allows eligible expatriates living in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia to enter the country without going through the standard visa application process.
The entry permit must be approved before arrival and allows GCC residents to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days. The visa may be extended once for a further 30 days, subject to approval.
Check visa-on-arrival eligibility first
Before applying for an eVisa, travellers should check whether they qualify for a UAE visa on arrival. The UAE provides visa-on-arrival options for citizens of more than 80 countries, and eligibility can be verified through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) website.
Who is eligible for a UAE eVisa as a GCC resident?
The UAE eVisa service is available to foreign nationals who hold a valid residence permit issued by a GCC country.
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Hold a valid GCC residence permit with at least one year of remaining validity.
- Possess a passport or travel document that is valid for a minimum of six months.
- Have an eligible profession approved for visa issuance, subject to review by the relevant UAE authorities during the application process.
- Have no restrictions or conditions that prevent entry into the UAE.
The eVisa will only be issued after receiving approval from the relevant authorities.
UAE eVisa requirements for GCC residents
Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- A copy of the GCC residence permit or a valid identification document showing the applicant’s profession and residency validity. The occupation details must be clearly mentioned on the permit or ID.
- A recent passport-style photograph with a white background.
Additional documents may be requested based on the applicant’s individual circumstances or the requirements of the relevant authorities.
How to apply for a UAE eVisa online
GCC residents can submit their applications online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai website.
Follow these steps:
How to apply for a UAE eVisa online
GCC residents can apply for a UAE eVisa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai smart services platform.
The application process involves the following steps:
- Visit the GDRFA Dubai smart services website: smart.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Create a new user account if you do not already have one.
- Select the GCC resident entry permit service.
- Complete the application form with your personal and travel information.
- Upload the required supporting documents.
- Pay the applicable visa fees.
- Once approved, the electronic visa will be sent to the registered email address provided during the application.
Travellers must receive visa approval before travelling to the UAE.
For visits to emirates other than Dubai — including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah — applications must be submitted through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) online platform.
UAE eVisa fees for GCC residents
The cost of a GCC residents’ entry permit is:
Cost: Dh250
Additional charges: A 5 per cent VAT applies, and extra service fees may be charged depending on the application channel used.
How long is the UAE GCC resident visa valid?
The GCC resident entry permit:
- Is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
- Allows the holder to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days from the date of entry.
- Can be extended once for an additional 30 days, subject to approval.
Can GCC residents apply through a travel agency?
Yes, GCC residents may also apply for a UAE visit visa through an authorised travel agency. Travel agencies can help with the application process and arrange visa sponsorship, depending on the type of visa being requested.
