Dubai / UAE Visa Guide for UK BRP / eVisa Holders
Visa on arrival eligibility, eVisa options, 30 and 90 day permits, and travel tips
Many nationalities get free visa on arrival in Dubai
Check if your passport nationality qualifies for visa on arrival (30 or 90 days, free). If not, apply for a UAE eVisa or arrange sponsorship through Emirates airline.
Overview
Dubai and the wider United Arab Emirates have become one of the world’s top travel destinations, offering ultramodern architecture (Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah), world-class shopping (Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates), pristine beaches, desert safaris, and a growing cultural scene. The UAE consists of seven emirates, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most visited.
For UK BRP holders, the UAE has one of the most generous visa-on-arrival policies in the world. Citizens of approximately 70 countries receive a free entry stamp upon arrival, valid for 30 or 90 days depending on nationality. No advance application is needed — simply arrive with your passport. Nationalities not eligible for visa on arrival can apply for an eVisa online.
UAE Visa at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (30 days) | Free — most eligible nationalities |
| Visa on arrival (90 days) | Free — UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, Japan |
| 30-day extension | AED 600 (~£130) at immigration |
| 90-day eVisa | AED 350-650 depending on type |
| Processing (eVisa) | 2-5 business days |
| Emirates airline visa | Available for ticketed passengers |
| Currency | UAE Dirham (AED) |
| Dry state | Alcohol sold in licensed venues only |
Visa on Arrival — Eligible Nationalities
The UAE grants free visa on arrival to citizens of approximately 70 countries. At Dubai International Airport or other UAE entry points, your passport is stamped with an entry permit. No forms, no fees, no advance application.
90-Day Visa on Arrival
The following passport holders receive 90 days: UK (British), all EU/EEA member states, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and several others. This generous allowance makes the UAE particularly accessible for these nationalities.
30-Day Visa on Arrival
Several additional nationalities receive 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days at a UAE immigration office (fee: AED 600). Countries include China (with conditions), Russia, and several others. Check the specific list for your nationality before travel.
UAE eVisa
If your nationality does not qualify for visa on arrival, you can apply for a UAE eVisa online. Options include a 30-day single entry, 30-day multiple entry, 90-day single entry, or 90-day multiple entry visa. Apply through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) website or through an authorised travel agent. Emirates airline also offers visa sponsorship for passengers with confirmed bookings.
Travel Tips
- Flights — London to Dubai 7 hours direct. Emirates, BA, and Virgin Atlantic operate multiple daily flights. Budget carriers also available.
- Currency — UAE Dirham (AED). 1 GBP = approximately 4.7 AED. Cards accepted everywhere. ATMs widespread.
- Best time — November to March (pleasant 20-30C). April to October is extremely hot (40-50C), though hotels and attractions are air-conditioned.
- Budget — Wide range. Budget hotels from AED 200/night. Mid-range dining AED 50-150. Alcohol expensive (AED 40+ per drink in bars).
- Laws — UAE has strict laws. Public intoxication is illegal. Dress modestly in public areas (especially malls and non-beach areas). Offensive gestures and language can result in fines or detention. Ramadan: eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours is prohibited.
- Transport — Dubai Metro is modern and affordable. Taxis are metered and reasonably priced. RTA buses cover the wider city. Car hire available.
- Abu Dhabi — Worth a day trip (1.5 hours drive). Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Corniche are highlights.
For more visa guides, return to our Visa Guides hub. For other popular destinations, see our Thailand and India guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: March 2026. Always verify entry requirements with the relevant embassy or official government website before booking travel.