| Quick Answer: All 27 EU member states qualify for a free, straightforward 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival at Dubai airports. No prior application or fees are needed; just show your valid EU passport (with 6+ months remaining) at immigration to get your entry stamp. |
Introduction
Dubai continues to be one of the most popular destinations for European travelers, with Western Europe accounting for 20% of all international visitors in 2024, representing approximately 3.74 million tourists. The United Arab Emirates maintains one of the most generous visa policies for EU passport holders, offering free multiple-entry visas on arrival with stays up to 90 days.
This comprehensive guide covers everything EU citizens need to know about entering Dubai in 2026, including the complete list of eligible countries, entry requirements, the arrival process at Dubai airports, overstay penalties, and options for those wishing to stay longer. Whether visiting for tourism, business, or family visits, this guide ensures a smooth entry into the UAE.
Eligible EU Countries for 90-Day Visa on Arrival
Citizens of all 27 European Union member states qualify for the 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival. This visa is stamped directly into your passport at immigration, free of charge, and allows multiple entries within a 6-month validity period.
Complete List of Eligible EU Countries
| Western Europe | Central Europe | Southern & Eastern Europe |
| Germany | Poland | Italy |
| France | Czech Republic | Spain |
| Netherlands | Austria | Portugal |
| Belgium | Hungary | Greece |
| Luxembourg | Slovakia | Croatia |
| Denmark | Slovenia | Romania |
| Sweden | Estonia | Bulgaria |
| Finland | Latvia | Cyprus |
| Lithuania | Malta |
| Important: Ireland ExceptionIrish citizens receive a 30-day visa on arrival (not 90 days) with a 10-day grace period for extension. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area. Irish passport holders staying in the country should apply for a visa extension or a tourist visa. |
Non-EU Schengen Countries Also Eligible
Citizens of these non-EU Schengen Area countries also receive the 90-day visa on arrival:
- Norway
- Iceland
- Switzerland
- Liechtenstein
90-Day Visa on Arrival Details
| Feature | Details |
| Visa Cost | FREE (no charge) |
| Maximum Stay | 90 days within any 180 days |
| Entry Type | Multiple entry |
| Visa Validity | 6 months from the date of issue |
| Passport Validity | Minimum 6 months from entry date |
| Advance Application | Not required |
| Grace Period | None (90 days is the exact limit) |
| Extendable | No (exit and re-enter, or apply for a tourist visa) |
Entry Requirements for EU Citizens
EU citizens must meet these requirements to receive the 90-day visa on arrival:
Required Documents
- Valid EU passport with at least 6 months’ validity beyondthe entry date
- Machine-readable passport (handwritten passports not accepted)
- Blank passport page for entry stamp (minimum 1 page)
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing departure within 90 days
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host address)
- Sufficient funds (approximately AED 3,000-5,000 or equivalent in EUR)
Recommended Supporting Documents
- Travel insurance (not mandatory but highly recommended)
- Bank statement or credit card showing available funds
- Complete travel itinerary
- Business invitation letter (for business travelers)
Understanding the 90/180-Day Rule
The UAE uses a rolling 180-day calculation period, similar to the Schengen Area rules. This means:
- Rolling calculation: The 180-day period is not a fixed calendar period but rolls forward daily
- Maximum 90 days: Your total days in the UAE cannot exceed 90 within any 180-day window
- Multiple entries: You can enter and exit multiple times; all days count toward the 90-day limit
- Days expire: As older days fall out of the 180-day window, new days become available
| Example: If you spent 60 days in Dubai from January 1 to March 1, you have 30 days remaining until July 1. On July 2, the January 1 day falls out of the 180-day window, giving you one more day. By September 1, all 60 days have expired, and your full 90-day allowance resets. |
Step-by-Step Entry Process at Dubai Airport
- Disembark your flight at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum International (DWC)
- Follow Passport Control signs to the immigration hall.
- Join the appropriate queue (look for EU/Non-GCC nationals or All Passports)
- Present your EU passport to the immigration officer
- Undergo biometric screening (fingerprint scan and photograph)
- Answer any questions about the purpose of the visit and accommodation
- Receive your entry stamp (90-day multiple-entry visa, free of charge)
- Proceed to baggage claim and collect your luggage
- Clear customs and exit through arrivals
Processing Time: Immigration clearance typically takes 5-15 minutes. Smart Gates are available for registered travelers for faster processing.
Overstay Fines and Penalties
The strict fines and penalties for overstaying the 90-day visa are clearly outlined, helping EU travelers feel informed and confident about adhering to regulations.
Overstay Penalty Structure
| Penalty Type | AED | EUR (approx.) |
| Daily overstay fine | AED 50 | €12.50 |
| Exit permit (out-pass) | AED 250-300 | €62-75 |
| 7 days overstay | AED 350 + exit permit | €87 + exit |
| 14 days overstay | AED 700 + exit permit | €175 + exit |
| 30 days overstay | AED 1,500 + exit permit | €375 + exit |
| Grace period | None for 90-day visa | N/A |
Warning: Fines must be paid before departure. Extended overstays may result in detention, deportation, and future entry bans to the UAE and other GCC countries. Immigration systems electronically track all entry and exit dates.
Staying Longer Than 90 Days
The 90-day visa-on-arrival for EU citizens cannot be extended in-country. If you need to stay longer, you have several options:
Option 1: Exit and Re-entry
Leave the UAE and wait until your 90-day usage falls below the limit within the 180-day window, then re-enter. Each new entry starts fresh tracking against the rolling 180-day period.
Option 2: Apply for a Tourist Visa
If your 90-day allowance is exhausted, EU citizens can apply for a pre-arranged tourist visa through UAE airlines, hotels, or travel agencies. Tourist visas can be 30, 60, or 90 days and are extendable.
Pre-Arranged Tourist Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Fee (AED) | Fee (EUR approx.) |
| 30-day single entry | AED 200-500 | €50-125 |
| 60-day single entry | AED 500-800 | €125-200 |
| 90-day single entry | AED 800-1,200 | €200-300 |
| 30-day extension | AED 600 + VAT + fees | €150+ |
| 5-year multiple entry | AED 1,500-2,500 | €375-625 |
Option 3: Long-Term Residence Visas
EU nationals seeking extended stays may qualify for:
- Golden Visa (10 years): Minimum AED 2 million (~€500,000) real estate investment
- Green Visa (5 years): For skilled professionals earning AED 15,000+/month
- Freelancer Visa: For self-employed professionals in approved sectors
- Work Visa: Requires employer sponsorship in the UAE
- Retirement Visa: For retirees with property or financial investments
European Tourism to Dubai: Statistics
Western Europe consistently ranks as Dubai’s most significant source market for international visitors, reflecting the strong travel ties between Europe and the UAE.
| Statistic | Figure |
| Total Dubai visitors (2024) | 18.72 million |
| Western Europe shares | 20% (3.74 million) |
| UK visitors (2024) | 1.25 million |
| Germany visitors (2024) | 504,000 |
| France visitors (2024) | 434,000 |
| Q1 2025 Western Europe visitors | 1.15 million (22% share) |
| Average length of stay | 10 days (2024) |
Important Restrictions
EU citizens entering Dubai on the 90-day visa on arrival must observe these restrictions:
- No employment: Working (paid or unpaid) is strictly prohibited
- No business establishment: Cannot register or operate a business
- No residency: This is a visitor visa, not a residence permit
- No enrollment: Cannot enroll in educational courses or programs
- 90-day maximum: Must exit before exceeding 90 days within any 180 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Do EU citizens need a visa for Dubai?
No advance visa application required. EU passport holders from all 27 member states receive a free 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival at Dubai airports. Simply present your valid passport at immigration.
How long can EU citizens stay in Dubai?
EU citizens can stay up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period. The visa is valid for 6 months from the date of issue and allows multiple entries. Your total days in the UAE cannot exceed 90 within any 180-day window.
Is there a grace period for the 90-day visa?
No. Unlike the 30-day visa on arrival (which has a 10-day grace period), the 90-day visa for EU citizens has NO grace period. Overstay fines (AED 50/day) begin immediately on day 91.
Can I extend the 90-day visa on arrival?
No. The 90-day visa on arrival cannot be extended in-country. Options include exiting and re-entering after days fall outside the 180-day window, or applying for a pre-arranged tourist visa if your 90-day allowance is exhausted.
Can I work in Dubai on the 90-day visa?
No. The visa on arrival is strictly for tourism, business meetings, and family visits. Working (paid or unpaid) is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. Employment requires a work permit and a residence visa sponsored by a UAE employer.
What if I overstay my visa?
Overstay fines are AED 50 per day (approximately €12.50) starting on day 91. An exit permit (AED 250-300) is required to leave after overstaying. Fines must be paid before departure. Extended overstays may result in detention and future entry bans.
Do Irish citizens get 90 days like other EU countries?
No. Irish citizens receive a 30-day visa on arrival (not 90 days) with a 10-day grace period. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area. Irish passport holders can extend their stay once for 30 additional days or apply for a tourist visa for more extended stays.
What passport validity is required?
Your EU passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry into Dubai. Machine-readable passports are required; handwritten passports are not accepted. Ensure you have at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
Official Sources and Resources
For authoritative information, consult these official government sources:
- UAE Government Portal: u.ae
- UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs: mofa.gov.ae
- Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP): icp.gov.ae
- GDRFA Dubai: gdrfad.gov.ae
- Visit Dubai (Official Tourism): visitdubai.com
- Emirates Airline Visa Info: emirates.com/visa-information
- EU Delegation to UAE: eeas.europa.eu
| Key TakeawaysAll 27 EU countries receive a FREE 90-day multiple-entry visa on arrival90 days within any 180-day rolling period (similar to Schengen rules)Ireland exception: 30-day visa with 10-day grace periodPassport must be valid 6+ months from entry dateNO grace period: overstay fines start immediately on day 91Western Europe is Dubai’s most significant source market (20% of visitors) |
Disclaimer: Visa regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official UAE government sources or your country’s embassy before travel. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Last Updated: January 2026