United Kingdom citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for United Arab Emirates.
United Kingdom citizens travelling to the United Arab Emirates for tourism do not require advance visa arrangements. They can obtain a free multiple-entry visa on arrival, valid for 90 days within a 180-day period.
Visa types & details
Choose a visa category to see its details — all options for United Kingdom → United Arab Emirates.
For United Kingdom citizens travelling for tourism, visiting family, or short business meetings.
Documents required for British citizens
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How to apply for a United Arab Emirates visa from United Kingdom
Follow these steps in order.
- 1Arrive at any international airport or port of entry in the United Arab Emirates.
- 2Present your valid United Kingdom passport to immigration officials.
- 3Your passport will be stamped with a 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival, free of charge.
Common United Arab Emirates visa rejection reasons
Why United Kingdom → United Arab Emirates applications get refused — and how to avoid it.
- Passport validity less than six months.
How to avoid: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your planned entry date into the UAE.
- Previous overstay or deportation from the UAE or other GCC countries.
How to avoid: Always adhere to visa regulations and departure dates. If you have a history of immigration violations, consult the UAE embassy or consulate before travel.
- Criminal record or security concerns.
How to avoid: Be aware that individuals with certain criminal records or those deemed a security risk may be denied entry. Ensure all travel documents and personal information are accurate and truthful.
- Suspicion of intent to work illegally.
How to avoid: Clearly state your purpose of visit as tourism and avoid carrying documents or making statements that could suggest an intention to work without a proper work visa.
- Lack of sufficient funds.
How to avoid: While not always checked for UK citizens, it's advisable to have access to sufficient funds to cover your stay. Be prepared to show proof if requested.
Trip essentials
Hand-picked tools for your United Arab Emirates trip.
Things to know & places to visit
Practical tips and top destinations.
- Dress modestly in public places, especially outside of tourist resorts, to respect local customs and culture.
- Alcohol consumption is restricted to licensed venues (hotels, clubs, restaurants) and private residences. Public intoxication is illegal.
- Be aware of local laws and customs, which can be stricter than in the UK. Public displays of affection, offensive language, and disrespectful behaviour are not tolerated.
- Photography of government buildings, military installations, and local people without permission is generally discouraged.
October to April, when temperatures are cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities.
- 📍 Burj Khalifa, Dubai
- 📍 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
- 📍 The Dubai Mall, Dubai
- 📍 Desert Safari (various locations)
- 📍 Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
Frequently asked questions
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The 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival for UK citizens is generally not extendable. If you wish to stay longer, you would typically need to exit the country and re-enter, or apply for a different type of visa through official channels before your current visa expires, which may require leaving the country to process.
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No, the visa on arrival is strictly for tourism, visiting family, or short business meetings. It does not permit employment. Engaging in any form of paid or unpaid work without a proper work visa is illegal.
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Your United Kingdom passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you intend to enter the United Arab Emirates.
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If you are transiting through a UAE airport and do not intend to leave the international transit area, you generally do not need a visa. However, if your layover is long and you wish to enter the country, the visa on arrival rules would apply.
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No, the 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival for United Kingdom citizens is issued free of charge.
This page is AI-assisted and last verified on 12 Jul 2026. Visa rules change — always confirm on the official source before you travel.