how much the visit visa in uae

Before you fly

UAE Visa Information

There may still be COVID-19 travel restrictions in some countries. Check our COVID-19 hub before you travel.

Do I need a visa for the UAE?

You’ll find information about visas below. Use our quick visa search tool to see if you need a visa and the passport requirements for visiting the UAE.

UAE visa on arrival

Preapproved uae visas, prearranged uae visas, sponsoring someone to visit the uae, contact information, 30-day visit eligibility.

If you are a passport holder of the below country or territory, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply disembark your flight at Dubai International and proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge.

90-day visit eligibility

If you are a passport holder of one of the below countries or territories, your passport will be stamped with a multiple entry 90-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 90 days in total. Citizens of the below European countries are also entitled to apply for a pre-arranged visit visa if their 90-day visa on arrival has been fully utilized.

180-day visit eligibility

If you hold a Mexican passport you’re eligible for a multiple entry 180-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 180 days in total.

Dubai immigration procedures

As an added security measure, Immigration Authorities at Dubai International are now conducting random visual screening for visitors to Dubai.

Visitors asked to proceed for visual screening are required to present a hard copy of their visa or a printed version of the visa number confirmation page at the screening counter. If you do not have a copy of your visa with you, a charge of AED 30 per copy applies, payable only in AED.

Important information

Before you travel to the UAE, check visa requirements and make sure you have a valid visa if needed and that your passport is valid for the minimum required period. Holders of non-standard passports and travel documents may also have different entry requirements: find out if you need to apply for a visa and other passport requirements.

As of April 29, 2016, GCC residence permit holders will need to apply for a UAE visa before arriving in Dubai.

New visit entry permit to the UAE for Indian nationals

From January 7, 2024, eligible Indian nationals with a normal passport valid for a minimum of six months can obtain a single entry, 14-day visa on arrival. A fee of USD 63 applies.

Eligibility

• Indian passport holder with USA visa valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with USA green card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with UK residence card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with EU residence card from the following countries valid for a minimum of six months

How and where to apply for a preapproved UAE visa

Eligible Indian nationals can apply for their UAE entry permit on emirates.com through Manage your booking .

* Extensions can be made at the airport office only.

Required documents

• Color photograph of applicant
• Color copy of applicant's passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months
• The original application form (available at all Emirates ticketing offices) can be accessed in Arabic or English, depending on the applicant’s nationality. Download the English  or Arabic  application form
• Copy of the Emirates ticket
• Proof of relationship if applying for family member: birth certificate, marriage certificate and family book
• All Documents to be submitted as hard copies

Additional documents are required for visitors of some countries

Additional documents may be required, depending on your country of residence. Please use our visa search tool above or visit our visa requirements page for more information.

Rules and conditions

• Visa fees must be paid upon application.
• Additional visa processing fees apply.
• The passenger must travel to and from Dubai on Emirates or codeshare flights only.
• Visa fees are nonrefundable.
• The ticket is non-refundable if the visa has been issued and utilized.
• Visa processing time is approximately 3 to 4 working days.
• Entry into the UAE is subject to immigration approval.
• All visas are valid to enter Dubai for 60 days from the date of issue, except the 96-hour and 48-hour visas, which are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

How and where to apply for your prearranged UAE visa

• Apply online through Manage Your Booking

Apply online

Nationals of countries requiring a prearranged UAE visa can now apply and pay for their visas online through emirates.com.

If you are traveling to or stopping over in Dubai with Emirates, you can submit an application and receive your UAE visa entirely online—without having to submit your passport for stamping. You can apply for your UAE visa through our Manage your booking after you book your Emirates flight. VFS processing fees apply. For more information please visit VFS Global.

The online visa application service is available for residents and nationals of many countries around the world. Find out if you can apply for a UAE visa. Applicants' passports must have at least six months' validity as of the date of travel to Dubai and must be machine-readable; handwritten passports are not accepted.

This service is only available to passengers with a confirmed Emirates booking where an Emirates ticket has already been issued and the flight itinerary already includes the desired time in Dubai. The itinerary into and out of Dubai should be on one ticket (PNR), and these flights must be Emirates flights. Note that itineraries including flights to or from Dubai on other carriers are not eligible for online visa service.

A minimum of 4 international working days prior to arrival in Dubai is required; however, Emirates recommends that online applications be made as early as possible.

Apply in the UAE

If you have a family member or near relative who is a UAE resident, they can apply for a visa on your behalf at any of our ticketing offices in the UAE. Please note that this service is only available to residents of the UAE.

• Color copy of applicant's passport. The passport must be valid for at least three months.
• The original application form (available at all Emirates ticketing offices)

Download the prearranged visa application form

Get started on your prearranged visa application by downloading and filling out the form.

Required applicant documents:

• A color passport photograph
• A color copy of your passport (must be valid for six months)
• A copy of your Emirates flight ticket, or your flight ticket from our codeshare partner
• The visa application form

Required sponsor documents:

Minimum salary required, download the sponsorship application form.

Get started on your sponsorship application by downloading and filling out the form.

Visa and sponsorship applications can be submitted to:

Abu Dhabi Emirates Ticketing Office: Al Sawari Tower C, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8.30am to 6pm) and Saturday (8.30am to 5.30pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays.

Ajman Emirates Ticketing Office Escape Tower, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Street Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 6pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Al Ain Emirates Ticketing Office Commercial Complex, Sheikh Khalifa Street Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8.30am to 6pm) and Saturday (8.30am to 5.30pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Dubai International: Terminal 3 Arrivals Phone: 04 504 7300 E-mail: [email protected] Visa Services: Monday to Friday (7am to 7pm) and Saturday (9am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Emirates Group Technology Centre, Ground Floor Entrance B, Al Ittihad Road, near Clock Tower, Deira Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Town Centre, Jumeirah Visa Services: Daily from (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

VFS Global Services GCC VASCO Worldwide 2nd floor, WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, UAE

Sharjah Emirates Ticketing Office: Crystal Plaza, Buhaira Corniche Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 7pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays Umm Al Quwain Emirates Ticketing Office: King Faisal Road, Jameiya area, near FEWA Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 8pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

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Planning a trip to Dubai? Find out whether you need a visa and how to apply.

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Whether working remotely from Dubai, permanently moving your business, or coming for retirement, there are lots of options for you to enjoy the full benefits of being a Dubai resident.

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Tourist visa, travel requirements for the uae.

A tourist wishing to visit the UAE can apply for a tourist visa through the electronic channels of official and private agencies, after fulfilling the requirements for obtaining the entry visa. You can learn about the requirements for entering the UAE and the procedures regarding COVID-19 tests through the websites of the airlines, which are kept up-to-date.

Government Portals to Apply for a Tourist Visa

You can submit an application for a tourist visa, as well as all types of entry visas to the UAE, electronically through government portals.

• Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs

National Airlines

You can apply for a visit visa through national airlines and authorised airlines in the UAE.

• Etihad Airways Visa Services
• Emirates Visa Services
• Flydubai Visa Services
• Air Arabia Visa Services

You can apply for a visit visa through one of the hotels in the UAE, adhering to the visa requirements.

Travel Agencies

You can apply for a visit visa through travel agencies in the UAE.

Embassies and Consulates

UAE embassies and consulates allow you to apply for a tourist visa.

Categories Exempt from Tourist Visa

Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries do not need a visa to enter the UAE. They can enter the country after presenting their passport issued by one of the GCC countries. Citizens of a few countries can travel to the UAE and obtain an entry visa upon arrival, and the duration of stay according to this visa is up to 30 days. Citizens of other countries can obtain a visa that allows for a stay of up to 90 days upon arrival.

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UAE visa rules: all you need to know about the 60-day visa for tourists

All visas can be renewed for a further 60 days.

The UAE is offering new types of visa, including options for long-stay tourists, jobseekers, accomplished professionals, star students and high-net-worth individuals. Wam

The new UAE visa rules that came into effect on October 3 allow holidaymakers to stay for 60 days at a time.

The decision to make all entry visas valid for 60 days from the date of issue ― double the previous allowance ― is one of a series of visa changes that were approved by the Cabinet in April.

Previously, there was no specific visa for tourists and those wishing to visit the UAE applied for 30-day, 60-day or 90-day visit visas.

The one, two and three-month entry permits are still available on a new visa, but mainly for people wishing to visit friends or relatives in the country, which requires documentary evidence proving the relationship and reasons for the visit.

All entry visas are available for single or multiple entry and can be renewed for a further 60 days.

Roshan Davis, manager of Golden Talent Tourism Agency in Dubai, said the change has made it easier for tourists to spend extended time in the country exploring and enjoying everything it has to offer.

“We have received more than 50 tourist visa applications from customers in the past four days,” he said.

Who is the tourist visa for?

Those who do not qualify for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry to the UAE can apply for a tourist visa.

Citizens from 69 countries and states are eligible for a visa on arrival in the UAE . Females below the age of 18 are not eligible to apply for a tourist visa unless they are travelling with their parents.

How can I apply for a tourist visa?

Visitors from countries that do not have a visa-on-arrival arrangement with the UAE can apply for their visas in advance through a travel agency or through the airline with which they are travelling.

How much does the tourist visa cost?

Mr Davis said they charge between Dh550 and Dh600 for 60-day visas and between Dh350 and Dh750 for one, two and three-month visa requests for visiting relatives.

A 60-day single entry visa with Etihad Airways costs Dh650, while a similar visa from Emirates airline costs Dh697 ($190). Both airlines offer a shorter, 30-day visa priced at Dh350 for Etihad and Dh330 ($90) for Emirates.

The UAE Today

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Discover UAE: Your Simple Guide to the 11 Types of UAE Visit Visas

Main Points

Easy Guide to UAE Visit Visas: Types, Requirements, and Costs

Are you thinking about visiting the UAE for tourism, to explore job opportunities, or for medical treatment? There are various types of UAE visit visas you can apply for, depending on your purpose. In this guide, we have break down the options, requirements, and costs of the different types of UAE visit visas.

Types of UAE Visit Visa in UAE

• Single Entry Visa-30, 60 or 90 days
• Jobseeker Visa
• Multi-Entry Tourist Visa
• 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
• Investor Visit Visa
• 14-Day Visit Visa for Indian Nationals
• Multi-Entry Visa for Relatives or Friends
• Student Visit Visa
• Patient Visa for Medical Treatment
• Patient Companion Visa
• eVisa for GCC Residents

1. Single Entry Visa – 30, 60, or 90 days.

Requirements:

• A personal photo
• Copy of your passport
• Identity card from your home country (for some nationalities)
• Valid passport (at least 6 months)
• Return ticket
• Health insurance (arranged by your travel agency)

2. Jobseeker Visa

• Colored passport-sized photo
• Attested qualification certificate
• Financial guarantee

3. Multi-Entry Tourist Visa

You can apply for the multi-entry visa if you are sponsored by a UAE tourist agency. You have two options for the duration of your stay: 30 or 60 days. The cost for a 30-day visa is Dh300, while a 60-day visa costs Dh500. Keep in mind that these prices are subject to VAT and may include additional agency fees.

• Personal photo
• Passport copy

4. 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

To be eligible for this visa, you must meet certain conditions. You should have a bank balance of $4,000 (Dh14,692) or its equivalent in foreign currencies over the last six months, valid health insurance applicable in the UAE, a round-trip ticket, and proof of your stay, which can be a hotel reservation or a residential address in the UAE.

Required Documents:  

• A colored passport-sized photograph
• A copy of your passport
• Medical insurance
• A bank statement for the last six months showing a balance of $4,000 (Dh14,692) or its equivalent in foreign currencies
• A tour itinerary
• A ticket for your return journey

The cost of this visa depends on the duration of your stay. For instance, a 30-day visit visa costs Dh300, a 60-day visit visa costs Dh500, and a 90-day visitor visa costs Dh700, plus a 5% VAT.

There are additional fees such as a guarantee amount of Dh2,000, a warranty service fee of Dh20, and a fee for the collection and return of the guarantee of Dh40.

Additionally, securing health insurance for this visa has its costs, ranging from Dh40 for a 30-day visitor visa to Dh90 for a 90-day visitor visa. If the sponsored person is already inside the country, there may be extra fees, including a knowledge fee of Dh10, an innovation fee of Dh10, and a fee for staying in the country of Dh500.

5. Investor Visit Visa

To be eligible for this visa, you must meet specific criteria. You should be financially stable, possess talent or a high qualification, and have professional expertise in the business area you plan to explore in your home country. Additionally, you need to fulfill the prescribed financial guarantee.

• Passport photo
• Evidence of investment
• Financial solvency, talent, or high qualification

These costs are subject to a 5% Value Added Tax (VAT). You’ll also need to provide a security amount of Dh1000, pay a warranty service fee of Dh20, and a fee of Dh40 for the collection and return of the guarantee.

If the sponsored person is already in the country, there are additional fees, including a knowledge fee of Dh10, an innovation fee of Dh10, and a fee for staying in the country of Dh500.

6. 14-Day Visit Visa for Indian Nationals

To be eligible for this visa, Indian citizens must meet certain conditions. They should hold a normal passport and either have a visit visa issued by the US, a green card issued by the US, a residence visa issued by the UK, or a residence visa issued by the EU.

• Valid US visit visa, green card, UK or EU residence visa
• Apply online or on arrival

Online Application Cost: If you choose to apply for the visa in advance through the ICP, the following fees apply:

• Visa issuance fee: Dh100
• E-Services fee: Dh28
• ICP fees: Dh22
• Smart services fee: Dh100

7. Multi-Entry Visa for Relatives or Friends

UAE-based residents can apply for a 90-day single or multiple-entry visit visa for their friends or family members through ICP or GDRFA.

• Passport photo of the relative/friend
• Proof of kinship (birth/marriage certificate)
• Copy of relative/friend’s passport
• Your Emirates ID
• Proof of residence for the sponsored

The cost breakdown for this visa includes:

• A refundable security deposit of Dh1,025 (refundable if the visa is not approved).
• Request fees of Dh100.
• Issue fees of Dh300.
• E-services fees of Dh28.
• ICP fees of Dh22.
• Smart services fee of Dh100.

The total cost amounts to Dh1,575.

8. Student Visit Visa

Student visa is available to individuals sponsored by authorized universities, educational institutions, or research organizations for the purpose of study, training, obtaining qualifications, or similar educational activities.

You should submit a letter from the educational institution describing your study or training program and its duration.

Duration: 30, 60, or 180 days.

• Letter from the educational institution

The visa fee varies based on the duration you choose:

• 30-day visa fee: Dh200
• 60-day visa fee: Dh300
• 180-day visa fee: Dh400

These costs are subject to a 5% Value Added Tax (VAT). You’ll also need to provide a security amount of Dh1,000, pay a warranty service fee of Dh20, and a fee of Dh40 for the collection and return of the guarantee.

If the sponsored person is already in the country, there are additional fees, including a knowledge fee of Dh10, an innovation fee of Dh10, and a fee for staying in the country of Dh500. Please note that the total visa cost may vary based on individual circumstances or other factors.

9. Patient Visa for Medical Treatment

Patient visa is for foreign patients who plan to come to the UAE for medical treatment. It must be sponsored by a recognized medical facility where the treatment will take place.

To obtain this visa, you need to fulfill the following conditions:

• Submit a certified medical report along with a letter from the hosting medical facility explaining the reasons for your visit.
• Meet the prescribed financial guarantee requirements.
• If a companion is granted an entry visa for treatment, they must enter the country with the patient. The companion should also hold an entry visa similar to the patient’s (single or multiple trips). The extension of the companion’s visa is only possible if the patient’s entry visa is extended. In all cases, both the patient and the companion must have health insurance and meet the financial guarantee requirements.

Required Documents: You’ll need the following documents to apply for this visa:

• A personal photo.
• A copy of your passport, which must be valid for at least six months.
• A medical report from the treating medical facility.

This visa allows for single or multiple trips and can be valid for 90 or 180 days.

10. Patient Companion Visa

Patient Companion visa is for family members or caregivers accompanying a patient coming to the UAE for medical treatment. It must be sponsored by a recognized medical facility where the treatment will take place. To obtain this visa, you need to meet the following conditions:

• The patient must have a valid entry visa for medical treatment.
• You must apply for a ‘patient companion entry permit’ to accompany the patient.
• Both the patient and the companion must have health insurance.
• Financial security requirements must be fulfilled.

Required Documents:

• A copy of the patient’s passport.
• A letter from a registered hospital explaining the reasons for the visit.
• Proof of the patient’s health insurance.
• Proof of financial security.

This visa allows for single or multiple trips depending on the patient’s visa and can be valid for varying durations.

11. eVisa for GCC Residents

GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) residents and their companions can apply online for a 30-day UAE visa, extendable for an additional 30 days.

Conditions:

• The eVisa is emailed upon approval.
• GCC expatriate residents and companions must be sponsored by a traveling GCC citizen.
• Visa is valid for 30 days (extendable) for residents, 60 days (extendable) for companions.
• Expired or canceled GCC residence visas are not accepted.
• Passport and GCC residency must each have at least three months of validity upon arrival.

Required Documents: Valid passport and GCC residence permit.

Remember, visa costs can vary, so check with the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.

Ultimate Guide to UAE Visit Visas: Family, Friends, Job Seekers, and Investors

Complete Guide: How to Apply for a Tourist Visa in UAE- Requirement, Fees, Extension and more (Updated 2023)

14 Types of Visas in UAE – All You Need to Know

UAE Visas That Do Not Require A Sponsor : 2023 Updated:

Four Ways to Apply for Long Term Visit Visas in UAE

There are four methods to apply for visit visas in the uae:, frequently asked questions on uae visit visas, what is a uae visit visa.

A UAE Visit Visa is a temporary entry permit for foreigners who wish to visit the United Arab Emirates for tourism, business, medical treatment, or other non-residential purposes.

Who Can Apply for a UAE Visit Visa?

Visit visas can be applied for by individuals, tourists, business travelers, job seekers, students, patients seeking medical treatment, and those invited by UAE residents or companies.

How Do I Apply for a UAE Visit Visa?

You can apply through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Amer centers, or authorized typing centers, depending on your location and type of visa.

How Much Does a UAE Visit Visa Cost?

Visa costs vary depending on the type and duration of the visa. Additional fees for services, health insurance, and security deposits may apply.

Is Health Insurance Required for a UAE Visit Visa?

Yes, health insurance is typically required for UAE visit visas. It ensures that visitors have access to medical care during their stay.

How Long Does It Take to Process a UAE Visit Visa?  

Visa processing times can vary. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to ensure a smooth process.

Human Resource professional and writer.

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The best time for Umrah is November, December, January, and February.

During these times, the weather will be cool and not too hot.

If someone prefers to go when it is less crowded, it is recommended to go after Hajj.

After Hajj, there won’t be much crowd.

For Umrah, the main thing we need to perform is to wear a two-piece unstitched cloth; there are no stitches in the cloth. It is called Ihram.

We must put on the Ihram before crossing the Miqat, a designated point.

If someone is flying straight to Jeddah, the airline will announce that the Miqat is approaching, and you can prepare.

It is advisable to wear the Ihram from home or from the departure airport.

In the airport, we have prayer halls and washrooms, so it is better to change into the Ihram there.

In flight, you can also change the Ihram, but if many people are changing due to limited space, it will be difficult.

After wearing the Ihram, we must be very careful because it has its restrictions.

We need to be very careful; after making niyyah (intention), we shouldn’t use perfume, cut our nails, harm any plants or animals, or cut plants in Mecca.

If any of these restrictions are violated, there will be consequences based on the restriction faced.

We need to check with Ulama; they will suggest what to do. If the sin is small, it may require sadaqah.

The Ulama will tell how much sadaqah is needed.

If a big mistake is made, then a sacrifice is required; we need to perform Kurbani. We should take advice from our scholars; they will update us on what to do.

It’s best to avoid all consequences; it’s best to head directly to Mecca after landing.

In Mecca, complete your Umrah and remove the Ihram; the restrictions will not be there.

After wearing the Ihram and coming to Mecca, try to perform Umrah and remove the Ihram so that there won’t be any issues.

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UAE announces petrol, diesel prices for May 2024

The fuel price committee increased the retail rates for Super 98, Special 95, and E-Plus 91 by as much as 19 fils per litre in May

The UAE has announced the retail fuel prices for the month of May. The fuel price committee increased the retail rates for Super 98, Special 95, and E-Plus 91 by as much as 19 fils per litre.

From May 1, 2024, Super 98 petrol will cost Dhs3.34 a litre from Dhs3.15 a litre in April, while Special 95 will cost Dhs3.22 a litre compared to Dhs3.03 a litre the previous month.

Diesel will cost Dhs3.07 a litre in May compared to Dhs3.09 the previous month, while the price of E-plus 91 rose to Dhs3.15 compared to Dhs2.69 the previous month.

The fuel price committee increased the retail rates for Super 98, Special 95, and E-Plus 91 by as much as 11 fils per litre in April. The committee meets every month to decide whether prices will increase or decrease.

The country has been revising retail petrol prices on the last day of the month ever since the government deregulated oil prices in August 2015 to bring them at par with the global rates.

Meanwhile, oil price held its biggest drop in almost two weeks as the ongoing discussions on a possible cease-fire in the Middle East reduced the risk premium for crude.

Brent crude traded near $88.21 a barrel, down $0.14 or 0.16 per cent, as of 10:41 pm GST on April 30, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures dropped by $0.21 or 027 per cent to $82.44 a barrel.

Global oil price is set to eke out a fourth monthly gain, after surging to its highest since October in mid-April following an escalation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Geopolitical tensions across the globe as well as OPEC+ supply curb are bolstering prices, although uncertainty over US monetary policy and high inventories in product markets are weighing on the outlook for demand.

Read: Oil prices near $90 as Middle East tensions rise

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Uae: selling your car how to transfer vehicle ownership in dubai, abu dhabi, here's a guide to the requirements, fees, and certain conditions that must be met.

Kirstin Bernabe

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Buying a car in the UAE is a breeze, with minimal requirements, quick loan approvals, and flexible payment options. One can go on a car hunt and drive a brand-new vehicle home on the same day. And when it's time to let the car go — selling is also as easy in a massive secondhand market.

Once you find a buyer, your car's registration should be moved under the new owner's name. Transport authorities have streamlined this process, allowing residents to complete documentations online.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

Those in Dubai can apply for the transfer of vehicle ownership through the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and its digital platforms. Those in Abu Dhabi can do so via the Tamm platform. Here's a guide:

There are five ways to apply for the service in Dubai — the easiest of which is through the RTA website and smart app. You'll have to use your UAE Pass to get access to the service.

The requirements include:

• Original Emirates IDs of the buyer and seller
• Digital copy of vehicle insurance
• Digital copy of technical inspection report
• Emiratis and GCC nationals will have to provide a document proving that the vehicle is compliant with Gulf specifications (Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology - Conformity Sector) if the vehicle is not compliant on the customs card.

Here's how much the service costs:

• Dh350 for a private or public light vehicle
• Dh400 for a private vehicle between 3 and 12 tonnes
• Dh800 for a private vehicle exceeding 12 tonnes

Other fees include:

• For number plates: Dh35 for short ones, Dh50 for long ones
• For classical plates: Dh150 (long or short)
• For Dubai-branded plates: Dh200
• For luxury plates: Dh500
• Knowledge and Innovation fees: Dh20

The process via the RTA website:

• Log in by using your UAE Pass.
• Select 'change ownership' under the Vehicle Licensing Services.
• The buyer and seller should sign the selling agreement.
• Besides the required fees, any fines should also be settled.
• The seller then heads to the Customer Happiness Centre or the Vehicle Registration and Inspection Centre to submit the vehicle plates within 14 days from the fees settlement.
• The buyer should then visit the service centre to complete the vehicle registration.

Take note that sellers and buyers or their representatives must be present to complete the transaction.

Jebel Ali Free Zone transactions are processed only at the Jebel Ali centre, the RTA said.

For those in Abu Dhabi, the transfer of vehicle ownership can be done through the Tamm platform (https://www.tamm.abudhabi).

• Original Emirates ID
• A 13-month vehicle insurance policy in the name of the buyer (in case the registration had expired) or an insurance transfer from the seller to the buyer (in case the registration is still valid)
• If the vehicle was mortgaged, a letter mortgage release or transfer must be submitted
• Dh350 for a light vehicle (private or public)
• Dh400 for a private vehicle weighing 3 to 12 tonnes
• Dh800 for a private vehicle weighing more than 12 tonnes

Here's the process:

• Submit the application and the required documents through Tamm platform
• Pay the fees.
• Claim the vehicle registration card.

Like in Dubai, the buyer's and the seller's personal attendance is required to complete the transaction. Fines and violations should also be settled before the transfer.

UAE: How to renew vehicle registration in Abu Dhabi; all you need to know

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Are UAE Citizens Eligible to Get Vietnam Electronic Visa in 2024?

Vietnam is a beautiful country known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. It has become a popular travel destination for tourists from all over the world, including those from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). If you are a UAE citizen planning to visit Vietnam, you may be wondering about the visa application process. In recent years, Vietnam has introduced the electronic visa, making it easier for citizens of certain countries to enter the country. But the question remains, are UAE citizens eligible to get Vietnam electronic visa? Let’s find out.

Vietnam electronic visa is now available for UAE citizens

Vietnam opened its electronic visa program in 2017, but initially, only 40 countries were eligible to apply for it. Unfortunately, UAE citizens were not included in this list. However, in late 2017, Vietnam expanded the list, adding UAE as one of the eligible countries. This means that UAE citizens are now able to apply for and obtain Vietnam electronic visa online, making their travel planning much more convenient.

Advantages of Vietnam Electronic Visa for UAE Citizens

• Apply Online:

One of the biggest advantages of Vietnam electronic visa for UAE citizens is that the entire application process can be done online. Gone are the days of standing in long queues at the embassy or sending in your passport through mail. With the electronic visa, you can apply for your visa from the comfort of your own home, saving you time and effort.

• Simple Documents:

The documents required for Vietnam electronic visa are simple and easy to obtain. You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity, a recent passport-sized photo, and a valid email address to receive your visa approval letter. No need to submit complicated documents or go through a lengthy application process.

• Fast Process:

The electronic visa for Vietnam has a fast processing time of just 3-5 business days. This means that you can apply for your visa and receive it within a week, making it ideal for last-minute travel plans. If you opt for the urgent processing option, you can receive your visa in just 1-2 business days.

• 90 Days Validity with Multiple Entry:

Another significant advantage of Vietnam electronic visa for UAE citizens is that it allows for a longer stay in the country. The visa is valid for up to 90 days, and you can enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within that period. This is perfect for travelers who want to explore different regions of Vietnam or visit neighboring countries during their trip.

How to Apply for Vietnam Electronic Visa for UAE Citizens

Now that you know the benefits of Vietnam electronic visa, you may be wondering how to apply for it. The process is simple and can be completed in just a few easy steps.

• Visit our website: To apply for Vietnam electronic visa, visit our website – https://www.vietnam-evisa.com/apply/ . Our website is user-friendly and optimized for easy navigation.
• Fill in the application form: Once you are on our website, you will be directed to the application form. Fill in all the required information, including your personal details, travel dates, and passport information.
• Make payment: After completing the application form, you will be directed to the payment page. You can pay for your visa using a credit or debit card or through PayPal.
• Receive your electronic visa: After completing the payment, you will receive your visa approval via email within 3-5 business days.
• Print your visa approval: Once you receive your visa, you will need to print it out and present it at the airport in Vietnam, along with your passport.

In conclusion, UAE citizens are now eligible to get Vietnam electronic visa, making their travel planning much more convenient and hassle-free. With its fast processing time, simple documents, and longer validity period, the electronic visa is the perfect choice for those planning to visit Vietnam. So, what are you waiting for? Apply for your Vietnam electronic visa today and get ready to explore the beauty of this charming country.

Why Traveling Around Africa Is Difficult for Africans

I was scrolling on social media when a post caught my eye. Green Ranger Safaris , a travel company I'd never heard of, was organizing a road trip through seven African countries. This trip would start in Nairobi, Kenya, then head down into Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana. The pricing was reasonable, so I paid a deposit, brushing aside concerns about both spending weeks on end with a group of strangers and the slight chance that the trip might have been an excellently worded scam.

A few months later, in August, I was on a truck with those strangers. It was late in the evening, and we swept through the Kalahari Desert in northern Botswana, the sun in the sky a flaming orb, the only visible life on the sand of the desert being the shrubs, the wild horses, and the herds of elephants. Music swirled from the truck's speakers, a mishmash of popular Kenyan songs from the turn of the century and Nigerian megahits. The countries we were traveling to had been chosen mostly because they were all English-speaking and provided visa-free travel to Kenyans, so the border crossings were simple, with clearances for the trucks, stamps for our passports and, in Botswana, disinfectant for our shoes.

Talk among the passengers was already turning toward doing similar trips in other parts of Africa. One suggested starting in Namibia, sweeping down along the coast into South Africa, moving through the megacities there, then traveling to Lesotho and Eswatini before entering Mozambique. Another pitched a West Africa trip. It all sounded exciting. Everything was possible. But then another passenger brought up Niger, where a coup had just led to the country's closure of its borders. What would happen if a person took a West Africa road trip and then there was a coup? Would the passenger have to stay there and never go home? We laughed at the absurdity. But behind the laughter was real heartache. Because the reality is that any African traveler has thought about the difficulty of traveling as an African.

My mother was a traveler, and when she traveled for work, my brothers and I would travel in Kenya with her. Then, when I was older, the expanse of my travel grew larger: First I traveled around Kenya, then around East Africa. Now I have a desire to explore the continent, to explore versions of myself in other countries in Africa, home to some of the most humbling and impressive landscapes and vistas in the world: to the largest freestanding mountain on earth (Kilimanjaro); to the largest hot desert in the world (Sahara); to thundering waterfalls twice as wide and deep as Niagara (Victoria); to sparkling white-sand beaches; to UNESCO-listed nature reserves; to cities whose histories stretch back through millennia; and to award-winning wine regions. But I find myself marooned before the bank of difficulties other African travelers face.

A few months after my Green Ranger trip, I spoke to Anneli Douglas, an academic at the University of Pretoria in South Africa who has studied travel in Africa. She pointed out how much easier it is for Western visitors to get visas for Africa than it is for African travelers to visit their countries. "Sometimes, travelers have to travel long distances to apply for a visa, or there might not even be representation of the destination country in the home country, making it difficult to obtain a visa at all," she says. "Also, for Western countries, the cost to obtain a visa to Africa is much cheaper than what it is for Africans-considering the value of the local currency."

In places like Kenya, African destinations are rarely marketed to would-be travelers. Instead, there is a surfeit of packages offering holiday trips in destinations like Dubai, Bangkok, and Istanbul, because it is not only easier but also often cheaper to organize trips to these places than it is to organize trips within the continent. Even when visas are relatively easily attainable, travel from one African country to another is rife with difficulties. Sam Maundu, a Nairobi-based tour operator who runs Rosolo Safaris , which organizes trips around Africa, had no shortage of factors ready when I asked what these difficulties are: "Language barriers, visa restrictions, expensive flights, African destinations not targeting Africans to visit, long distances to be covered either by road or by flight since there are often no direct flights, security situations in some places, perception that there is nothing to see in other African countries, harassment by border officials."

One of the lingering effects of colonialism on the continent is that interaction between African countries tends to exist along mostly colonial lines: There are the former Portuguese colonies, the former British colonies, the former French colonies. Passport holders from Kenya, which was colonized by Britain, are mostly able to go to former British colonies visa-free or with visa-on-arrival status. This means that for a person planning a trip, it becomes easier to think of traveling to these countries. On our multiple-country road trip, the travelers were mostly holders of Kenyan and Ugandan passports (Uganda, another former British colony), and so the countries that the trucks went to were all-except for Namibia-former vestiges of the British Empire. This shared history meant also that because all these countries have English as an official language, it would be relatively easy for us travelers to communicate with people there.

Samuel Agblorti is a lecturer at the Centre for Mixed Migration and Diaspora Studies of the University of Cape Coast in Ghana. I ask him about about a hypothetical trip from Cameroon to Senegal, across a region where multiple coups have happened in recent years. Safety concerns rising from these events had further entrenched visa restrictions across Africa. "Because our borders aren't very well protected, there is a fear that allowing too many visitors will make it unsafe," Agblorti tells me. But even getting those visitors has been a problem.

In 2016, the African Union announced plans for an AU passport to be rolled out by 2020. This passport would open travel across the continent, as more African citizens wouldn't need visas to travel to other African countries. However, more than seven years later, the passport hasn't been launched, stymied by a mixture of security concerns and protectionist attitudes among African states. (The AU remains silent on when and if the passport will be launched.) Still, Agblorti says such a passport would not necessarily be the panacea that its supporters think it would be as it wouldn't automatically lead to visa-free travel without individual states implementing it. He gave the example of regional blocs such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), whose membership comprises 15 West African states whose citizens hold ECOWAS passports. "Even within ECOWAS, there are protocols that member countries are supposed to adhere to, but some of them don't," he says. "You may have a common passport, but if the countries don't make extra commitments, then it doesn't matter."

Thus far, only a handful of African countries have committed to allowing African visitors to visit without a visa: Gambia, Benin, and Seychelles; Rwanda has announced plans to implement this. On a small scale, then, African visitors to these countries will experience the promise of the AU passport-if it does indeed come to fruition.

Most recently, in December 2023, rather than introduce the visa-free status its president had promised , Kenya announced that it would require an electronic travel authorization (ETA) , to increase revenue from visitors seeking to enter Kenya. Visa-free entry was scrapped for all but five other East African countries, and new travel requirements and fees were introduced for countries whose citizens had previously enjoyed visa-free travel into Kenya. To some, the doors of entry-rather than being flung open-were being closed even tighter.

Another issue is how expensive it is to travel in Africa. According to a 2013 World Bank report , airfare within Africa is roughly 50 percent more expensive than airfare in comparable locations worldwide. Flights from one African country to the other tend to be much more expensive than flights from Africa to Europe and Asia, despite logic that the shorter the distance, the cheaper the flight ought to be. This means, in effect, that a traveler from Kampala, Uganda, would find it more affordable, and therefore more attractive, to fly to Dubai than to Maputo, Mozambique, despite the latter being much closer than the UAE.

Tour operator Maundu told me that this makes it difficult for him to suggest to his clients travel packages that involve other African destinations: Often, it means the cost of the round-trip air tickets more than doubles the cost of the entire travel package. And there aren't always reliable road or rail options that offer alternative transport to travelers. Most leisure travelers can't move directly by rail from Kenya to South Africa (there is a luxury train network between Tanzania and South Africa that costs $19,000), while in most other regions of the continent, not only are there no multicountry rail options, but also existing bus networks rely on terrible roads.

The irregularity or non-availability of intra-regional air connections and of internal air transport also constrains access to internal destinations and prevents progress with multicountry tourism packages, Maundu says. Also, tax rates per passenger in Africa are more expensive than they are on other continents: The total tax per passenger is about $64, compared to $30.23 in Europe and $29.65 in the Middle East. This is exacerbated by the lack of a single unified aviation market, whose absence means that fares and tax rates swing with volatility across different parts of the continent.

Rather than negotiate with one central body, airlines operating in Africa deal with individual countries, which each usually have different rates and requirements for entry. In Europe, for instance, the establishment of the European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) in 2006 decreased airfares across Europe by making possible the rise of a fleet of low-cost airlines, and at the same time increased the volume of flights within European airports. In this vein, there have been attempts to establish a single aviation market in Africa. The most recent of these attempts is the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). Announced in 2018 , the SAATM so far has signed on 34 countries. However, like the AU passport before it, the SAATM has not been implemented, and so it remains nothing but an idea.

In the meantime, African travelers continue to dream. Travel plans continue to be made. Potential destinations continue to be talked about. At the end of our seven-country road trip, as we headed back to Kenya, we spoke again about organizing future trips together, our group of strangers now bonded as friends. Some people discussed taking a trip to Uganda over the next month. Others talked about heading across the Indian Ocean to Mauritius. In Lusaka, Zambia, where the first batch of travelers would leave us to fly back to Nairobi, weepy goodbyes were made. "We are family," one of them said.

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Unveiling Sharjah's Mleiha National Park: History and adventure await

Living in uae.

Explore 200,000-year-old history and desert beauty, with eco-stays, adventures and more.

Dubai: History buffs and nature enthusiasts rejoice! A brand new national park is planned in the Mleiha region, promising a unique blend of historical exploration and eco-friendly adventures.

Unearthing 200,000 years of history

Spanning over 34 square kilometres, the Mleiha National Park will be for those seeking to delve into the UAE's rich past. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, recently said that construction and development are underway and fencing of the park’s 34km premises will be complete by Q3 2024 .

This is the location where archaeologists have unearthed the earliest evidence of human occupation outside Africa and is on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site nominee list. Visitors can explore fascinating remnants and gain insights into the region’s ancient civilisations.

Three zones in the new national park

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, recently said that construction and development are underway and fencing of the park’s 34km premises will be complete by Q3 2024 .

The park will include three separate areas:

1. The Core Conservation Zone , focused on preserving the natural environment and supporting wildlife. 2. The Ecotourism Zones , offering eco-stays, adventures and educational activities. 3. The Hybrid Zone , which serves as a middle ground for conservation and sustainable tourism practices.

Activities that will not be allowed

The new park will also strictly regulate which kind of activities will not be allowed at the park, to ensure that they do not negatively effect the sustainability efforts in the region. This includes activities and actions that would hamper the aesthetic value of the park or kill, harm, or negatively affect wildlife.

Activities at Mleiha that you can enjoy right now

Even as adventure lovers wait for the opening of the national park, there are already several other activities in the area which you can enjoy.

- Mleiha Archaeological Centre

The Mleiha Archaeological Centre offers guided tours of important archaeological sites in the area, including the Umm an-Nar tomb, a circular Bronze Era grave, where you can delve into the history of ancient Bedouin civilisation much before modern Emirati culture and the Fossil Rock, a huge rock formation filled with marine fossils.

Here you can also go on a desert safari and ask about the best spots to set up a desert camp. The centre can offer advice, especially if you’re looking for a “glamping” experience. The centre also has exhibits of ancient artifacts, where you can explore the interactive displays.

- Glamping spots

From the Moon Retreat to the Al Faya Retreat, there are several glamourous camping or ‘glamping’ spots in the area as well.

- XQuarry Off-Road Adventure Park

This recreational destination offers activities like off-road cycling and four-wheel driving, training in off-road driving, as well as exploring mountain tracks, and many other challenges for adrenaline raising thrills. Additionally, visitors can enjoy barbecues and camping with friends and family.

- Sky adventures

If you love adventure and enjoy flying at altitudes of up to 5,000 feet, you can enjoy paragliding at this centre, where different packages are available, depending on your skill level and interest.

- Mleiha Fossil Rock and Hiking Trail

Millions of years ago much of Arabia was under the ocean and many of the fossils here are said to be over 80 million years old. Today, you can visit the rock to witness fossils that are over millions of years old, enjoy clear blue skies, rocky hills and pristine desert sand in the same area. But remember that there is no shade on this route so start early morning or late afternoon.

How to get there

Mleiha is located around 65km southeast of Sharjah city. Take the E44 Dubai-Hatta road or the E102 Sharjah-Kalba Road and take the exit for E55 – Al Dhaih Maleha Road. - If you are taking E44, it would mean taking the exit at the Al Ghareef Square to turn towards E55. - If you are on E102, take the exit for E55, along the Mleiha mosque.

Drive for approximately two minutes and you will see the exit for the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. The centre also offers return transfers from Sharjah or Dubai for those without access to a transport, however, the service is not free. To find out how much it would cost you to book a trip through the service, you can call the centre on 06 802 1111.

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