Issuance of 30-Day Electronic Visa for UAE with Extension Option for Oman Residents

According to the Digital Government of the United Arab Emirates, residents (foreigners residing) of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia) and their companions can obtain a 30-day electronic visa for the UAE, which can be extended for an additional 30 days.

Previously, residents of GCC countries were unable to extend their visas within the UAE and had to exit the country to apply for a new visa if needed.

Applications for this visa can be submitted through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or through the smart systems of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).

Entry Permit Validity:

1. GCC Residents: The entry permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and allows for a 30-day stay from the date of entry. This visa is extendable for an additional 30 days.
2. Companions of GCC Citizens: The entry permit is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance and allows for a 60-day stay from the date of entry. This visa is extendable for an additional 60 days.

Conditions for Denial of Entry: If the GCC resident’s visa is expired or canceled at the time of entry, their entry into the UAE will not be permitted.

Residence and Passport Validity:

• Residence Validity: Residence in GCC countries must be valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
• Passport Validity: The passport of GCC residents must have at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry.

How to Apply for an Electronic Visa: GCC residents can apply for an entry permit by visiting the GDRFA website at smart.gdrfad.gov.ae. Applicants must register as a user, select the desired service, and complete the application form.

Required Documents:

1. Valid passport or travel document
2. Copy of residence or electronic version that includes profession and residence validity
3. Personal photo with a white background

After completing the application, applicants must pay an amount of 250 AED plus VAT. Upon approval, the electronic visa will be sent to the applicant’s email.

Travel agencies based in Oman usually charge around 35 Omani Rials for a 30-day UAE e-Visa.

This news was announced in a tweet published on Monday. This tweet states: “Residents of GCC countries and their companions must apply for a visa online and must obtain the visa before entering the UAE. This visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days.

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Sources:

Issuance of 30-Day Electronic Visa for UAE with Extension Option for Oman Residents (zawya.com)