Tourism numbers have steadily grown since the coronavirus pandemic slump when aircraft worldwide were grounded and lockdowns became the norm.
In contrast, the UAE Government Media Office announced on Monday 18 April 2022 that all entry visas are available for single or multiple entry and can be renewed for similar periods and are valid for 60 days from their issuance date; these major improvements include facilitating the entry requirements for all visa types, offering flexible visa durations that meet the needs of the visitors and the purpose of the visit,”
The UAE will allow visitors and holidaymakers to enter and stay for 60 days as standard. The decision to double the time tourists can stay is one of a series of visa changes approved by the Cabinet. It will benefit people looking for longer breaks and those who are considering a permanent move.
While there are separate visas available for jobseekers — called a job exploration entry visa — a 60-day tourist visa would allow people an idea of what the lifestyle and job market have to offer. Until now, a 30-day visit visa on arrival was standard for many nationalities including British, Americans and Australians.
After 30 days, there was a nine-day grace period before fines for overstaying were applied. This amounted to a costly Dh200 on the first day and Dh100 for each consecutive day
In contrast, visitors from countries that do not have a visa-on-arrival arrangement with the UAE, such as India and Pakistan, must arrange a paid-for visa in advance through a travel agency. Meanwhile, visitors from Schengen zone countries in Europe have different arrangements, with 90 days allowed in any 180-day period.
The announcement on 18th April made no reference to any changes to these arrangements.
