American citizens receive a visa on arrival for stays up to 90 days in 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We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none.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.

• PassportMust be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the UAE.
• Return or onward travel ticketRecommended to have proof of onward or return travel.
• Proof of sufficient fundsRecommended to have proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
• Accommodation detailsRecommended to have details of your accommodation.

1. 1
   Ensure your United States passport is valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into the UAE.
2. 2
   Book your return or onward travel tickets and arrange your accommodation.
3. 3
   Upon arrival at any port of entry in the United Arab Emirates, present your valid passport to immigration officials.
4. 4
   Immigration officials will stamp your passport with a multiple-entry visa on arrival, valid for 90 days.

• Passport not valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

  How to avoid: Ensure your passport meets the minimum validity requirement well before your travel date.

• Previous overstay or deportation from the UAE or other GCC countries.

  How to avoid: Always adhere to visa regulations and departure dates on previous visits to any country.

• Having a criminal record or being deemed a security risk.

  How to avoid: Ensure you have no outstanding legal issues that could prevent entry into the country.

• Attempting to enter for purposes other than tourism, business, or visiting family without the appropriate visa.

  How to avoid: Be truthful about your travel purpose and obtain the correct visa if your intent is not covered by the visa on arrival.

• Inconsistent or suspicious travel history/intentions.

  How to avoid: Be prepared to clearly articulate your travel plans, accommodation, and return arrangements if asked by immigration officials.

• Respect local customs and traditions, especially regarding dress code in public places and religious sites. Modest attire is generally recommended.
• Be aware of strict laws concerning alcohol consumption (generally restricted to licensed venues), public displays of affection, and photography of people without permission.
• Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and protect yourself from the sun. Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities, but bottled water is widely available.
• Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and visa stamp separate from your actual documents in case of loss or theft.

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

  Generally, the 90-day visa on arrival for US citizens is not easily extendable. For longer stays, it is advisable to apply for an appropriate visa in advance through the UAE embassy or consulate.

• Can I work in the UAE with this visa on arrival?

  No, the visa on arrival is for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family. It does not permit employment. Engaging in work without the proper visa can lead to severe penalties.

• What are the passport validity requirements for entry?

  Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into the UAE. If your passport has less than six months validity, you may be denied entry.

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

  If you remain in the international transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration, you generally do not need a visa. If you wish to leave the airport and enter the UAE, the 90-day visa on arrival applies.

• Are there any specific entry requirements for minors traveling to the UAE?

  Minors traveling alone or with only one parent may require additional documentation, such as a consent letter from the non-traveling parent(s). It is advisable to check with your airline or the UAE embassy prior to travel.

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

  American citizens traveling 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 recommended to renew your passport before your trip to avoid any issues.

• Will I need to show proof of funds when I arrive in the UAE?

  While there is no strict requirement to show a specific amount of funds for the visa on arrival, immigration officers may ask for proof that you can support yourself during your stay. This could include bank statements or credit cards. It is advisable to have access to sufficient funds for your trip.

• I am self-employed, will this affect my visa on arrival for the UAE?

  Your employment status as self-employed generally does not affect your eligibility for a visa on arrival for tourism in the UAE. The visa on arrival is granted based on your nationality and purpose of visit. You are not typically required to provide proof of employment for this type of visa.

• If I leave the UAE for a short trip to another country, can I re-enter on my visa on arrival?

  The visa on arrival granted to American citizens for the UAE is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for 90 days within a 180-day period. This means you can leave and re-enter the UAE within that 90-day allowance. Each entry will count towards your total permitted stay.

• Do I need to have a return flight booked before I arrive in the UAE?

  Yes, it is generally required to have a confirmed onward or return ticket when arriving in the UAE on a visa on arrival. Immigration officials may ask to see proof of your departure from the country. This helps demonstrate your intention to leave within the permitted stay.

• How much does a United Arab Emirates visa cost for American 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, 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, The Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Desert Safari. Apply once for United Arab Emirates and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.