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Great news for OFWs and Filipinos planning to visit Dubai! Starting on June 25, 2026, the UAE will provide the Philippines with a visa on arrival in UAE, provided certain conditions are met. Those who qualify will now be able to obtain their tourist visa at the point of entry to the United Arab Emirates, eliminating the need to apply for one before departing on their trip.
This new visa process provides more convenience and will save time and hassles when travelling to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other Emirates. Can a Filipino citizen get a UAE Visa when they arrive in the UAE? Absolutely! Holders of a valid Philippine passport who hold a valid residency or U.S. Green Card issued by the United States of America, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, or any country in the EU can expect to be issued a UAE Visa upon arrival in the UAE.
The traveller will be given the option to choose between 2 types of visa:
- A 14-day visa upon arrival — AED 100 (extendable to 14 days)
- A 60-day visa upon arrival — AED 250 (strictly non-extendable
What Is the UAE Visa on Arrival for Filipinos?
Filipinos can now obtain an immediate entry visa upon arrival in the UAE at any designated Port of Entry using this visa plan from the UAE immigration department. Unlike the traditional tourist visa, where a prior application is required, applicants who are issued a visa on arrival are not required to complete the visa application process. The policy has been in effect since June 25, 2026, to assist qualified professionals from the Philippines, both with permanent residences and overseas workers living in visa-free countries.
What’s the Difference Between a Regular UAE Tourist Visa and a Visa on Arrival?
Essentially, when and where you obtain your visa is where the biggest difference lies. A normal tourist visa must be obtained either from a licensed travel agent or through an online process prior to leaving for the UAE. The Visa on Arrival program allows eligible visitors to obtain their visa upon arrival in the UAE, without having to apply for it in advance. Upon presenting their other approved documents to immigration officials and being checked against those documents, their visa will be issued at the airport, meaning less time planning for eligible visitors.
Which Airports and Ports of Entry Offer This Visa?
Once a visitor arrives at one of the following locations, he/she will receive their Visa on Arrival from UAE Immigration Officials:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
- Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)
- Zayed International Airport
- Other authorised entry points (air, sea or land) that are operated by the UAE immigration authorities.
Flights to Dubai from Major OFW Hubs
Flying from the UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the United States, or Europe? PinoyTourism can help you compare flights and find competitive fares from major international airports.
UAE Visa on Arrival — Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Announcement Date | June 25, 2026 |
Effective Date | June 25, 2026 |
| Eligible Nationality | Filipino (Philippine Passport) |
Residence Permit Required | Yes (Qualifying countries only) |
14-Day Option | AED 100 |
| 60-Day Option | AED 250 |
Family Members | Eligible (Accompanying family members) |
| Application Point | UAE Port of Entry |
| Extendable? | Subject to UAE immigration regulations |
Who Qualifies for the UAE Visa on Arrival as a Filipino?
Not every Philippine passport holder automatically qualifies for the new Visa on Arrival. The UAE has established clear eligibility requirements that must all be satisfied before arrival.
Condition 1: You Must Hold a Valid Philippine Passport
To qualify for the UAE Visa on Arrival for Filipinos, you will need to have a:
- Valid Philippines Passport
- A passport valid for at least 6 months after your planned date of entry into the UAE
- Passport in good condition and without significant damage.
Expired Passports or Emergency Travel Documents are considered non-compliant for visa-on-arrival processing.
Condition 2: You Must Have a Residence Outside of the Philippines
The primary focus of this policy is to benefit Filipinos who legally live abroad as opposed to those currently living within the Philippines.
This policy benefits:
- Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
- Permanent Residents
- Skilled Professionals
- Long-term Expatriates
- Eligible Dependents Living Abroad
If you are continuing to reside in the Philippines with no qualifying foreign residence status, then you will need to obtain a regular UAE Tourist Visa before travelling to the UAE.
Condition 3: Your Residence Permit Must be from One of the Qualifying Countries
To be eligible for a UAE Visa on Arrival, you must hold an approved residence visa, residence permit, or Green Card, issued by one of the following countries:
- United States of America
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- Singapore
- Republic of Korea (South Korea)
- All European Communities
UAE Visa on Arrival for Filipinos — Fees and Duration Options
One of the biggest advantages of the new UAE Visa on Arrival for Filipinos is the flexibility it offers. Depending on the purpose and duration of your visit, eligible travellers can choose between a short-term or extended stay option when they arrive at a UAE port of entry.
| Visa Option | Fee | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| 14-Day Visa on Arrival | AED 100 | Short vacations, business trips, family visits, stopovers |
| 60-Day Visa on Arrival | AED 250 | Extended holidays, visiting relatives, long leisure trips, and remote work stays. |
14-Day UAE Visa on Arrival — AED 100
Eligible Filipino passport holders travelling to the UAE for a short-term visit will benefit from the cheapest option, which is the 14-day Visa on Arrival, as long as they meet all of the qualifying requirements.
The 14-day Visa on Arrival is perfect for those who:
- Spend some time on holiday in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi
- Visit family or friends
- Attend business functions or exhibitions
- Use these 14 days as a stopover to get to an international trip.
The Visa will be issued upon arrival after immigration officials check your passport and qualifying residence permit.
60-Day UAE Visa on Arrival — AED 250
Travellers planning a longer stay may choose the 60-day Visa on Arrival, which costs AED 250. This choice is best for those who:
- Want to have a family vacation with other relatives in the UAE.
- Want to see relatives who live in the UAE.
- Want to visit many different locations while in the UAE.
- Want to work remotely, have a digital nomad holiday, or work as an expat.
- Want to travel for work while having the opportunity to network with other businesses.
The new option for arriving in the UAE allows Filipinos with valid visas from other countries to enter the UAE quickly and easily, instead of going through a lengthy application process.
What Other Fees Will You Incur?
The above fee reflects government-approved fees according to the new immigration policy for foreigners travelling as tourists on a long-term visa. In addition to the above, the following fees may apply:
- Baggage fees charged by airlines
- Travel insurance (if bought separately)
- Exchange rates for currency
- Transportation to and from the airport
- Security deposits for hotels
- Tourism fees charged by hotels.
Immigrant officials may ask you to provide proof of onward travel and/or adequate financial resources to support your stay.
Need Help with Your UAE Visa?
If you don’t qualify for the new Visa on Arrival, PinoyTourism can assist with your UAE tourist visa application, ensuring your documents are complete before departure. Inquire now at: +971 56 997 8442
UAE Visa on Arrival vs. Regular Dubai Visa — Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | UAE Visa on Arrival | Regular UAE Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|
Where to Apply | At the UAE airport or the port of entry | Online or through a visa agency |
Processing Time | Issued upon arrival | Usually 3–5 business days |
14-Day Cost | AED 100 | Varies by provider |
| 60-Day Cost | AED 250 | Varies by provider |
Eligible Applicants | Filipinos with qualifying foreign residence permits | All Philippine passport holders |
| Family Members | Eligible if accompanying | Separate applications usually required |
| Extension | Subject to UAE immigration rules | Available through approved channels |
If you’re looking for lower airfares and hotel rates, consider travelling between May and September. Although temperatures are significantly higher, many attractions remain indoors with excellent air conditioning, and travellers can often find substantial discounts.
Important UAE Entry Rules and Tips for Filipino Travellers
Be aware that understanding local customs and laws before visiting greatly improves your chances of a truly enjoyable trip.
Customs Regulations
Before leaving, it is essential to double-check all current UAE customs regulations to ensure you do not bring the following items into the UAE.
- Any illegal drugs or narcotics;
- Any counterfeit goods;
- Any offensive publications;
- Certain medications not backed by a prescription;
- Any food or agricultural products that are restricted.
Dress Code and Cultural Etiquette
The UAE is home to millions of tourists who come to visit every year, but as a visitor, it is your responsibility to adhere to local customs. The following are some recommended practices for visitors:
- When in public areas, wear decent and appropriate clothing;
- When visiting mosques, wear appropriate clothing;
- Do not consume alcohol publicly.
- Only take photos of individuals with their consent;
- Respect all local religions and local traditions.
Do You Need Travel Insurance for the UAE?
Some airlines require that visitors have travel insurance to gain entry. Others do not require you to have one, but it’s advised that you purchase travel insurance. A travel insurance policy will come with several benefits, but the major benefits are:
- Medical emergencies;
- Flight cancellations;
- Lost luggage;
- Trip cancellations;
- Emergency evacuation.
If you must travel internationally, purchasing travel insurance is both a good investment and a great safety measure.
Overstaying Your UAE Visa — Fines and Consequences
Do not stay longer than your authorised time period. Staying for longer than authorised can result in the following:
- Daily fines
- Administrative penalties
- Immigration restrictions
- Potential delays on future UAE visa applications
If you wish to stay longer in the UAE, please check with the relevant immigration authority regarding extending your visa before the expiration date.
Emergency Contacts for Filipinos in the UAE
If you require consular assistance whilst in the UAE, please contact:
They can assist you with replacement passports, emergency situations, and other consular-related matters.
Frequently Asked Questions — UAE Visa on Arrival for Filipinos
Q. Is it possible for Filipinos to have a Visa on Arrival in Dubai?
A. Filipinos who have an eligible Philippine passport and are legally residing in specified countries with a qualifying residence permit can obtain a Visa on Arrival for the UAE at designated points of entry.
Q. What countries’ residence permits are acceptable?
A. The policy applies to residence permits issued by the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and EU countries.
Q. What is the duration of stay for Filipino citizens arriving in the UAE using a Visa on Arrival?
A. Eligible travellers may apply for either a 14-day or 60-day Visa on Arrival, depending on their plans.
Q. What is the price of a UAE Visa on Arrival?
A. The Government of the UAE charges the following fees:
- 14-day Visa on Arrival: AED 100
- 60-day Visa on Arrival: AED 250
Q. Can Filipino workers living in the UK get a Visa on Arrival to visit Dubai?
A. Yes, Filipino nationals who are residing legally in the UK with an eligible UK residence permit could qualify for the UAE Visa on Arrival under the new immigration procedures.
Book Your Dubai Trip with PinoyTourism
Planning your Dubai vacation doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you qualify for the new UAE Visa on Arrival or need a regular UAE tourist visa, PinoyTourism can help make your journey hassle-free. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need assistance with visas, flights, or Dubai tour packages, PinoyTourism is ready to help you plan your UAE adventure with confidence. Contact us today for more information.
