Travelling without the hassle of lengthy visa applications is a dream come true for many adventurers, and UAE residents are fortunate to enjoy unparalleled freedom with access to over 70 visa-free destinations. From serene island retreats to bustling cultural hubs, these destinations open up a world of exploration and discovery.
However, while the visa requirements might be waived, one crucial detail to keep in mind is travel insurance. Many visa-free countries mandate having valid travel insurance as part of their entry requirements. This ensures you are safeguarded during your trip, covering unexpected
Updated List of Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents (2025 Edition)
Europe: Extensive Schengen Zone Access
Western Europe
European destinations represent some of the most accessible regions for UAE passport holders, with most countries offering 90-day visa-free access within the Schengen Area framework.
- Germany (90 days visa-free) – UAE passport holders can enter Germany without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.
- France (90 days visa-free) – France allows UAE citizens visa-free entry for tourism and business purposes for 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.
- Switzerland (90 days visa-free) – Switzerland, though not an EU member, participates in the Schengen Agreement and offers 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
- United Kingdom (eTA required) – The UK requires UAE passport holders to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before travel.
Central and Eastern Europe
- Poland (90 days visa-free) – UAE passport holders can visit Poland for 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.
- Czech Republic (90 days visa-free) – The Czech Republic offers visa-free access for 90 days within the Schengen Area framework.
- Hungary (90 days visa-free) – Hungary allows UAE citizens visa-free entry for 90 days within any 180-day period.
Nordic Countries
- Norway (90 days visa-free) – Norway, part of the Schengen Area, offers 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
- Sweden (90 days visa-free) – Sweden provides visa-free access for 90 days within the Schengen Area.
- Denmark (90 days visa-free) – Denmark offers 90-day visa-free access within the Schengen framework.
Asia: Diverse Access Patterns
East Asia
- Singapore (30 days visa-free) – Singapore allows UAE passport holders visa-free entry for up to 30 days.
- South Korea (90 days visa-free) – South Korea offers generous 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
- Japan (30 days visa-free) – Japan provides 30-day visa-free access for UAE citizens.
- Hong Kong (30 days visa-free) – Hong Kong allows UAE passport holders visa-free entry for 30 days
Southeast Asia
- Thailand (60 days visa-free) – Thailand offers 60-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
- Malaysia (90 days visa-free) – Malaysia provides generous 90-day visa-free access.
- Philippines (30 days visa-free) – The Philippines allows UAE citizens visa-free entry for 30 days.
South Asia
- Maldives (90 days visa-free) – The Maldives offers 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders. Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage was previously mandatory but requirements may have evolved; comprehensive travel insurance remains highly recommended for water sports and medical emergencies.
- Pakistan (90 days visa-free) – Pakistan provides 90-day visa-free access to UAE citizens.
Middle East & GCC: Freedom of Movement
Gulf Cooperation Council Countries
The GCC countries offer the most comprehensive access for UAE passport holders, with freedom of movement and work rights.
- Saudi Arabia (Freedom of movement) – UAE citizens enjoy complete freedom of movement and can work and reside in Saudi Arabia. A national ID card is sufficient for entry.
- Qatar (Freedom of movement) – Qatar offers freedom of movement for UAE citizens, with ID card acceptance for entry.
- Kuwait (Freedom of movement) – Kuwait provides freedom of movement privileges for UAE passport holders. National ID cards are accepted for entry.
- Oman (Freedom of movement) – Oman allows freedom of movement for UAE citizens with ID card entry.
- Bahrain (Freedom of movement) – Bahrain offers complete freedom of movement for UAE passport holders. ID cards are sufficient for entry.
Other Middle Eastern Countries
- Jordan (90 days visa-free) – Jordan provides 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
- Lebanon (90 days visa-free) – Lebanon offers 90-day visa-free entry for UAE citizens.
Africa: Growing Accessibility
North Africa
- Morocco (90 days visa-free) – Morocco allows UAE passport holders visa-free entry for 90 days.
- Egypt (90 days visa-free) – Egypt provides 90-day visa-free access to UAE citizens.
- Tunisia (90 days visa-free) – Tunisia offers 90-day visa-free entry for UAE passport holders.
Sub-Saharian Africa
- South Africa (90 days visa-free) – South Africa allows UAE citizens visa-free entry for 90 days.
- Mauritius (90 days visa-free) – Mauritius provides 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
- Seychelles (90 days visa-free) – Seychelles offers 90-day visa-free entry for UAE citizens.
Americas: Generous Access Across Continents
North America
- Canada (180 days visa-free with eTA) – Canada offers generous 180-day access to UAE passport holders but requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
- Mexico (180 days visa-free) – Mexico provides exceptional 180-day visa-free access to UAE citizens.
South America
- Brazil (90 days visa-free) – Brazil allows UAE passport holders visa-free entry for 90 days.
- Argentina (90 days visa-free) – Argentina offers 90-day visa-free access to UAE citizens.
- Chile (90 days visa-free) – Chile provides 90-day visa-free entry for UAE passport holders.
- Peru (90 days visa-free) – Peru allows 90-day visa-free access, with stays limited to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Caribbean
- Barbados (90 days visa-free) – Barbados offers 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
- Bahamas (90 days visa-free) – The Bahamas provides 90-day visa-free entry for UAE citizens.
Oceania: Island Paradise Access
- New Zealand (90 days visa-free) – New Zealand allows UAE passport holders visa-free entry for 90 days.
- Fiji (4 months visa-free) – Fiji offers generous 4-month visa-free access to UAE citizens.
- Vanuatu (90 days visa-free) – Vanuatu provides 90-day visa-free access to UAE passport holders.
Important Considerations for UAE Residents
Non-Emirati UAE Residents
While this guide focuses on Emirati passport holders, the UAE's diverse population includes significant numbers of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Filipino residents who face different visa requirements. Indian passport holders residing in the UAE have access to fewer visa-free destinations, including Barbados, Maldives, Mauritius, and several Caribbean nations. Pakistani passport holders have even more limited options, requiring visas for most international destinations.
Travel Insurance Recommendations
Although specific insurance requirements vary by destination and are not comprehensively detailed in available sources, several general principles apply. Travel insurance is highly recommended for all international travel, regardless of whether it's mandatory. Coverage should include medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and COVID-19 related expenses where applicable. High-cost destinations such as the United States, Canada, and European countries particularly warrant comprehensive insurance coverage due to expensive healthcare systems.
Best Travel Insurance Options for a Visa-Free Travel
- When planning visa-free travel, selecting a reliable travel insurance provider is essential. Allianz stands out as a trustworthy choice for UAE residents, offering plans starting as low as 56 AED. Their comprehensive coverage includes protection against medical emergencies, COVID-19 incidents, trip cancellations, and other unexpected travel disruptions.
- Allianz also caters to different travel needs with tailored options for families, seniors, and frequent travellers. Their plans are highly flexible, allowing individuals to choose between single-trip or multi-trip policies based on their travel schedule and preferences.
- Take the first step towards a worry-free travel experience today. Visit Allianz’s website to get an instant quote and find the perfect plan for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance mandatory for UAE residents visiting visa-free countries?
It depends on the destination. Certain countries, like Seychelles and Maldives, require it, while others strongly recommend it for safety.
Which countries have strict insurance requirements?
Schengen countries and tropical destinations like Seychelles and Maldives often demand proof of insurance for entry.
What should my travel insurance policy cover?
Your policy should typically include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected disruptions, depending on the requirements of your destination.
Are visa-free travel rules the same for all UAE residents?
No, the rules may differ based on your nationality, as visa-free agreements depend on the passport you hold and not solely on your residency in the UAE.
How can I check if my destination requires travel insurance?
You can confirm requirements by visiting the official website of the destination country’s embassy or consulate or consulting with your travel insurance provider.
