UK ETA UAE: Do UAE citizens need a visa for the UK?
UK ETA UAE: Do UAE citizens need a visa for the UK?
The new UK ETA UAE requirement is a game-changer for travelers! While this may sound like a visa, it's actually a streamlined digital travel authorization that makes the process simpler and quicker. Here's everything you need to know about the UK ETA, including who needs it, what it allows, and how to apply.
Do UAE citizens need a visa for the UK?
UAE citizens do not need a traditional visa for short stays in the UK. However, all UAE travelers need to apply for a UK ETA before entering the UK.
UK ETA for UAE citizens
The UK ETA is a digital travel authorization that works similarly to other travel permits like the Canada eTA or US ESTA. Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport, meaning no physical document is needed. It is valid for 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, allowing you to visit the UK multiple times during its validity.
When to apply for a UK ETA | Who needs a UK ETA? | Who doesn’t need a UK ETA? | What you can do with a UK ETA | What you cannot do with a UK ETA |
- Visiting family, sightseeing, or vacationing (up to 6 months) | - Sightseeing, family visits, vacations (up to 6 months) | - Already hold a UK visa | - Stay up to 6 months for tourism, business, or short-term study | - Stay longer than 6 months |
- Meetings, conferences, or short-term work (permitted paid engagements) | - Business trips (meetings, conferences, short-term engagements) | - Settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme | - Transit through UK airports (if passing through border control) | - Work for a UK company (unless part of a permitted paid engagement) |
- Short-term courses (up to 6 months) | - Short-term educational courses (up to 6 months) | - Dual citizenship with a British or Irish passport | - Enter the UK multiple times within 2 years | - Claim public funds |
- Passing through UK border control during a layover | - Transiting through UK airports (with border control) | - Living in Ireland and traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or Isle of Man | - Get married or register a civil partnership (requires a Marriage Visitor visa) |
Check now to find out if you need a UK ETA
For those seeking extended stays or specific permissions, other visa options include the UK Visit Visa for longer tourist or business visits, the UK E-Visa for digital processing, the UK Settlement Visa for residency, the UK Sponsorship License for employers hiring foreign workers, and the UK Student Visa for education. Additionally, individuals may apply for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa to work independently or a Spouse Visa to join a UK-based partner.
How to apply for a UK ETA from the UAE
Global Law offers comprehensive support for UAE citizens applying for a UK ETA. Our services include:
Accurate application assistance to avoid mistakes or delays.
Expert legal guidance for travelers with past visa refusals or criminal records.
Fast-tracked solutions for urgent travel needs.
Personalized assistance for business travelers, professionals, and families to ensure smooth entry into the UK.
Start your journey now!
Global Law is here to support you. With over 17 years of experience in UK immigration law, we ensure your application is processed efficiently and without complications.
Eligible UK ETA countries
Do I need ETA for the UK? Check with out tool or use the list of nationalities eligible to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) when traveling to the UK. The UK ETA countries list includes countries and territories whose citizens can apply now, as well as those who will require an ETA for travel on or after April 2, 2025.
Andorra
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Austria
Bahamas (The)
Bahrain
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Botswana
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Chile
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Federated States of Micronesia
Greece
Grenada
Guatemala
Guyana
Hungary
Iceland
Israel
Japan
Kiribati
Kuwait
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macao Special Administrative Region
Maldives
Malta
Marshall Islands
Mexico
Monaco
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Norway
Oman
Palau
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
San Marino
Seychelles
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
South Korea
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)
Tonga
Tuvalu
United Arab Emirates
Uruguay
Vatican City
Stay ahead of the changes with Global Law guides.
- Posted on: 04.04.2025
- By: Eray Eliacik
- uk
- uk eta
About the author
Eray Eliacik
Eray is a seasoned writer and passionate traveler who has explored over 20 countries. With firsthand experience navigating visas and international travel, and a proven track record with reputable platforms like Dataconomy and Softonic, Eray now makes it easier for travelers to achieve their travel goals.
Eray Eliacik
Apr 04, 2025
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