As a UAE expat, you may be eager to travel the world without the hassle of applying for a visa. Luckily, there are many visa-free countries that UAE expats can travel to for tourism or business purposes.
In this article, we will explore and summarize the various options available for different visa types and more. In addition, these countries typically grant UAE expats a certain amount of time to stay, ranging from a few days, weeks or weeks to a few months.
Let’s look at some countries and the various visa options for travel:
Visa-Free Destinations for UAE Expats:
| Countries you can visit | Visit without a Visa up to |
|---|---|
| Bahrain | 14 days |
| Georgia | 90 days |
| Seychelles | 30 days |
| Mauritius | 90 days |
| Serbia | 90 days |
| Armenia | 180 days |
| Maldives | 30 days |
| Montenegro | 30 days |
| Turkey | 90 days |
| Ukraine | 90 days |
Let’s have a brief look at the weather and culture in the above countries:
Bahrain:
Despite being an Island nation, Bahrain possesses a typical desert climate with hot summers followed by mild winters. Naturally, therefore, Islamic traditions and Arabic customs influence the culture in this country.
Georgia:
Georgia has a diverse climate with warm summers and cold winters. Christian traditions heavily influence the culture, with a strong emphasis on family values and hospitality. This influence carries out too many sightseeing spots as well.
Seychelles:
Seychelles has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The culture is influenced by a mix of African, European, and Asian traditions, with a laid-back island vibe, a popular destination for quick getaways.
Mauritius:
The country has a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year-round. The culture is influenced by a mix of Indian, African, and European traditions, with a vibrant music and dance scene. It’s one of the most picturesque island nations.
Serbia:
Serbia has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. The culture is influenced by a mix of Slavic, Orthodox Christian, and Ottoman traditions, with a strong focus on family and community.
Armenia:
Due to its location, Armenia enjoys a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Christian traditions heavily influence the culture, with a strong emphasis on family and hospitality
Maldives:
You’ll experience a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. This country is influenced by Islamic and Maldivian customs with a solid connection to the ocean and marine life.
Montenegro:
Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. It is influenced by Slavic, Orthodox Christian, and Ottoman traditions, with a strong focus on hospitality and communal beliefs.
Turkey:
In some regions, Turkey has a diverse climate with hot summers and cold winters. The culture is heavily influenced by Ottoman customs, with a rich history and diverse cuisine.
Ukraine:
Ukraine has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The culture is influenced by Slavic, Orthodox Christian, and Soviet traditions, with a strong emphasis on family and communal views.
As a non-UAE passport holder expat in the UAE, you may have different visa-free travel options.
Some of the other countries are:
- Barbados
- Bolivia
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Dominica
- Ecuador
- Haiti
- Indonesia
- Ireland
- Kenya
- Micronesia
- Nepal
- Niue
- Palau
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobagogene
- Vanuatu
Additionally, some countries may require specific documentation or proof of funds for entry, so it’s essential to research the particular requirements for each country on your travel itinerary.
It’s important to note that visa-free travel may have specific requirements and conditions, such as proof of return tickets, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for the duration of the trip.
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change anytime. So, it’s always best to check with the respective embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit before making any travel arrangements.
Visa on arrival for UAE Expats:
A visa on arrival means that you can obtain a permit at the airport or border when you arrive in the country. It differs from visa-free travel, as you still need to apply for a visa but can do so upon arrival. Some countries that offer visa-on-arrival for UAE expats include:
| Countries you can visit | Visit without a Visa up to |
| Cambodia | 30 days |
| Indonesia | 30 days |
| Jordan | 30 days |
| Kenya | 90 days |
| Nepal | 90 days |
Brief about the weather and culture in the above countries:
Cambodia:
Cambodia has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. The season is dry from November to April, while the wet season is from May to October. Cambodia is known for its rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples such as Angkor Wat being a significant tourist attraction.
Indonesia:
The country has varying weather conditions depending on the region. For example, the western part of the country experiences a wet season from October to April, while the eastern part experiences it from May to September. It’s a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, and its people are known for their warm hospitality.
Jordan:
Jordan has a dry, hot climate with temperatures that can reach 40°C during the summers. Therefore, the best time to visit Jordan is either in spring (March to May) or in autumn (September to November), when temperatures are more pleasant. The country has a rich history and culture with ancient ruins such as Petra and Jerash being popular tourist attractions.
Kenya:
Kenya has a tropical climate. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C throughout the year. Additionally, Kenya experiences two rainy seasons – the more extended rain periods from March to May and the shorter rain periods from October to December.
This country is well-known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, with traditional Maasai tribes being a popular tourist attraction.
Nepal:
Nepal has a varied climate depending on the altitude, with high-altitude areas being much cooler than lower ones.
The best time to visit Nepal is autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and clear. This country is home to 8 out of 10 highest mountain peaks and is also known for its stunning mountain scenery, diverse cultures, and ancient temples and monasteries.
Visiting other GCC countries:
Any non-UAE passport-holder expatriate in the UAE can visit other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
However, the visa requirements and processes may vary depending on the country you look forward to exploring.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Bahrain: UAE residents can obtain a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 14 days plus a fee.
- Kuwait: UAE residents can obtain a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 90 days plus a fee.
- Oman: UAE residents can obtain a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 10 days plus a fee.
- Qatar: UAE residents can obtain a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 30 days plus a fee.
- Saudi Arabia: UAE residents can obtain a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 90 days for tourism purposes only, plus a fee.
The application process may be more complex if it’s for business, as you may require to go through an agency or sponsor.
It’s important to note that the visa requirements and processes may change at any time, so it’s best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country visited for the most up-to-date information.
It’s always great to book your trip in advance, and whilst you confirm your flight tickets, take full travel insurance to be covered right from the start!
