Visa Options for UAE Residents Traveling to GCC Countries Explained
As a UAE expatriate, planning a trip to neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can be exciting yet daunting, especially when it comes to understanding visa requirements.
Whether you’re visiting family, embarking on a work-related journey, or simply exploring the region, knowing your visa options is essential.
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Visa on Arrival and eVisa Options
For many UAE residents, the good news is that there are various visa options available, including visas on arrival and eVisas. These alternatives have streamlined travel, making it easier for expatriates to navigate the visa process.
Saudi Arabia: UAE residents can apply for a one-year multiple-entry eVisa, perfect for business trips, family visits, or even performing Umrah (except during the Hajj season).
Applications are processed through Saudi Arabia’s unified visa platform, ksavisa.sa, with both single-entry and multiple-entry options available.
Oman: A visa on arrival is accessible for UAE residents, regardless of nationality, provided they work in an approved profession.
Alternatively, an eVisa valid for up to 30 days can be obtained through Oman’s official portal. If driving to Oman, residents can receive a visa at the border for stays of up to 14 days.
Qatar: Residents can apply for a ‘GCC Resident Entry’ eVisa via Qatar’s Hayya Portal. Eligibility requires holding a valid UAE residency for at least three months, confirmed accommodation, and a matching job title on the residence visa.
Bahrain: UAE residents have the option of a two-week visa on arrival or an eVisa, which can be processed through Bahrain’s NPRA online portal.
The eVisa comes in three-month or one-year multiple-entry formats, and applicants must meet specific criteria, including employment in a skilled profession.
Kuwait: An eVisa can be applied for through Kuwait’s updated platform. UAE residents, along with those from other GCC countries, can take advantage of this option, provided they meet the required documentation criteria.
Key Documentation
While the application processes vary by country, certain documents are commonly required:
- A passport valid for at least six months
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- A confirmed return ticket
- A valid Emirates ID with a minimum of six months’ validity
- Proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay.
Understanding these visa options and requirements can enhance the travel experience for UAE residents, making it simpler to explore the diverse cultures and landscapes within the GCC.
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