British citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for United Arab Emirates.

• Government fee Paid at the visa-on-arrival counter. The amount depends on your nationality and length of stay.
• Payment method Some counters take cards, others require local currency in cash — check before you fly.
• Other charges Airport or tourist taxes, where they apply, are charged separately.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• Valid PassportYour passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into the UAE.
• Confirmed Return or Onward TicketProof of your intention to leave the UAE within the permitted stay period.

1. 1
   Arrive at any international airport or port of entry in the United Arab Emirates.
2. 2
   Present your valid United Kingdom passport to immigration officials.
3. 3
   Your passport will be stamped with a 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival, free of charge.

• 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.

• 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.

• Can I extend my 90-day visa on arrival?

  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.

• Can I work in the UAE with this visa?

  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.

• What are the passport validity requirements for entry?

  Your British passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you intend to enter the United Arab Emirates.

• Do I need a visa if I am only transiting through a UAE airport?

  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.

• Is there a fee for the visa on arrival for UK citizens?

  No, the 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival for British citizens is issued free of charge.

• My passport expires in 5 months - can I still travel to United Arab Emirates?

  British citizens travelling to the UAE must have a passport valid for at least six months from their date of entry. If your passport has less than six months of validity remaining, you may be denied entry upon arrival. It is strongly advised to renew your passport before your trip to avoid any issues.

• Will I need to show proof of funds when I arrive in United Arab Emirates?

  While there is no strict requirement for British citizens to show a specific amount of funds upon arrival for a visa on arrival, immigration officers may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. This is to ensure you can support yourself financially during your visit. It is advisable to have access to funds and be prepared to show evidence if requested.

• I was refused a visa for another country last year. Will this affect my entry to United Arab Emirates?

  A previous visa refusal for another country does not automatically prevent your entry to the United Arab Emirates as a British citizen. However, immigration authorities at the port of entry have the final decision on admission. They may inquire about previous travel history or refusals. It is always best to be truthful and prepared to explain any past issues if asked.

• I am travelling to United Arab Emirates with my children. Are there any special requirements for them?

  When travelling with children to the United Arab Emirates, ensure each child has their own valid passport. If you are travelling alone with children and are not their legal guardian, or if only one parent is travelling, you may be asked to provide a letter of consent from the other parent or legal guardian. It is recommended to carry relevant documents such as birth certificates to prove your relationship.

• I am self-employed. Will I need to show any special documents when I arrive in United Arab Emirates?

  As a self-employed British citizen entering the UAE for tourism, you are generally not required to show specific employment documents for a visa on arrival. The primary focus is on your intent to visit as a tourist and your ability to support yourself. However, it is always prudent to have a return ticket and accommodation details ready, as these are standard requirements for all tourists.

• How much does a United Arab Emirates visa cost for British citizens?

  The fee is paid on arrival, and is usually separate from any other charge at the airport. Government fee: Paid at the visa-on-arrival counter. The amount depends on your nationality and length of stay. Payment method: Some counters take cards, others require local currency in cash — check before you fly. Other charges: Airport or tourist taxes, where they apply, are charged separately. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

• Do I need a separate visa for Burj Khalifa, Dubai, or does this cover all of United Arab Emirates?

  You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a United Arab Emirates visa is valid for the whole country — including Burj Khalifa, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, The Dubai Mall, Dubai and Desert Safari. Apply once for United Arab Emirates and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.