Important Temporary Updates to UAE Visa Policies Amid COVID-19 Developments

March 18, 2020

The UAE has announced a temporary suspension on issuing visas upon arrival for holders of exempted passports, effective 01:00 (UAE local time) on Thursday, March 19, 2020, as part of the precautionary and preventive measures adopted by the country to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The decision will apply to holders of exempted passports until a medical clearance process is activated at the departure country as part of global precautionary measures being undertaken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

In addition, the UAE has suspended the entry of all its valid visa holders, who are currently out of the country, for a renewable period of two weeks effective 12:00 noon on Thursday, March 19, due to the spread of COVID-19. For additional details and guidance, please see here or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation hotline: +97124965228 or +97192083344.

These policies apply to US citizens.

Holders of diplomatic passports are exempted from these decisions.  

These decisions come within the framework of the UAE's support for efforts by the international community to contain the virus.

Learn more about UAE visa and passport requirements.