Last update: 10 May 2025

UK ETA for UAE Citizens

UK ETA for UAE Citizens

A United Kingdom (UK) Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for citizens of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an advance travel permission that allows Emirati travellers to enter the UK. The ETA permits stays of up to six (6) months and remains valid for two (2) years or until the passport expires.

The UK ETA was launched on 1 February 2024 for UAE nationals travelling to the UK on or after 22 February 2024. It is part of the UK’s modernised border security system focused on automation and digitisation. The ETA is currently available to citizens of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with further rollouts planned.

The UK ETA replaces the older UK Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme. It is more cost-effective, faster to complete, and can be processed entirely online. Applicants only need a few minutes and basic documents to apply.

UAE citizens can use the UK ETA to visit for tourism, family visits, short business trips, or short-term study. They may also travel under the Creative Worker concession for up to three months or for permitted paid engagements. UAE citizens transiting through the UK also require an ETA, even if they do not pass border control.

Benefits of the UK ETA for UAE Citizens

The UK ETA was designed to simplify travel for UAE citizens. Below are the major benefits Emirati travellers receive when using the ETA system.

Quick & Easy Application

The ETA application can be completed fully online, including document uploads and payment. Most UAE travellers complete the process within minutes using any internet-connected device.

More Affordable

The total ETA service fee is just £97 — cheaper than the previous EVW scheme. Since the process is digital, applicants save time and avoid additional administrative or travel costs.

Flexible Travel

UAE citizens may enter the UK multiple times during the ETA’s two-year validity. As long as they do not exceed the permitted three- or six-month stay per visit, they may freely exit and re-enter.

Fast Processing

ETA applications are typically processed within three business days, with many approved in only a few hours. This helps Emirati travellers plan last-minute trips with ease.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for UAE Citizens

To qualify for a UK ETA, Emirati citizens must meet specific requirements set by the UK government. These criteria ensure that travellers are eligible for short-term visits under the ETA scheme.

Emirati Citizenship

Applicants must hold a valid UAE passport suitable for international travel.

Clean Criminal Record

Applicants must not have engaged in criminality, terrorism, extremist activity, or war crimes. Any such history must be self-declared for UK authorities to evaluate.

Proof of Short-Term Stay

The ETA allows stays of up to three (3) or six (6) months. Applicants must genuinely intend a short visit and should apply for a different UK visa if planning a longer stay.

No Previous Immigration Breaches

Applicants must not have overstayed or violated UK immigration laws previously, as this can result in refusal.

Validity and Permitted Stay

The UK ETA issued to UAE citizens is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Holders may make multiple short visits during the validity period, with a maximum stay of six (6) months per visit.

The ETA does not permit long-term work, settlement, marriage, or extended study. UAE citizens requiring longer stays must apply for the appropriate UK visa category. UKETE.org provides guidance on choosing the correct visa.

UK ETA requirements

To apply for a UK ETA, all eligible travelers are required to meet certain basic criteria. Below are the mandatory requirements that every applicant must provide:

1

Passport

Applicants must have a valid passport from an eligible country, preferably with two years of validity.

Personal Photo

Applicants must submit a recent upper-body photo that meets official specifications.

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3

Payment Method

Applicants must have a valid card or access to Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay the ETA UK fee.

Email address

Applicants must provide a valid email address to receive their UK ETA upon approval.

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How to Apply for a UK ETA as an UAE Citizens Citizen?

Applying for a UK ETA through UKETE.org is simple and user-friendly. UAE Citizens citizens can complete their ETA application online by following the steps below:

Step 01
Fill Out the ETA Application Form

Start by completing the online ETA application form. Enter your personal details such as full name, passport information, date of birth, and contact number accurately.
Step 02
Upload Required Documents

Upload a clear scanned copy of your valid UAE Citizens passport and a recent passport-style photograph. UKETE.org will display the size and format guidelines during the upload process.
Step 03
Pay Your ETA Application Fee

You can securely complete your payment using any of the following methods:
- Credit or debit card
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
Step 04
Review and Submit Your Application

Carefully review all details before submitting. The application must be completed in one session as the system does not save partial progress. If the application is inactive for more than 20 minutes, it will automatically reset and you will need to restart the process.
Step 05
Receive Your Approved ETA

Once processed, your UK ETA will be delivered directly to your email. If the ETA is not approved, you will also receive an email with further information or next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, or Oman and do not hold a UK visa or residency permit, you must apply for a UK ETA. The ETA allows eligible travellers to visit the UK for tourism, business, family visits, or transit for up to six (6) months. It may also be required for eligible Creative Worker visa concession travellers.

ETA stands for Electronic Travel Authorisation. It is a digital travel permit introduced by the UK government to pre-screen travellers before arrival. Eligible nationals can enter the UK without applying for a traditional visa, provided they obtain an approved ETA.

Travellers from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman are required to apply for a UK ETA for short visits. This system was expanded to include additional nationalities from 2024 onwards.

Yes. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—can travel to the UK for short visits of up to six (6) months without applying for a traditional visa. However, they must obtain a UK ETA before travelling. Final entry approval is always determined by UK Border Force upon arrival.

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UK ETA for UAE Citizens