Visa-on-Arrival Destinations for UAE Residents That Are Less Than 5 Hours By Plane
Plan your next holiday, hassle-free, with our list of destinations that offer visa-on-arrival for UAE expat residents
26 May 2023
Save time on your next holiday with our travel guide!
One of the best perks of living in the UAE is that it's located on a crossroad between Europe, Asia, and Africa. This means that there's plenty of opportunity for an international holiday.
In this travel guide, we've rounded up some beautiful destinations that offer visa-on-arrival for UAE expat residents and are less than 5 hours away by plane ride from Dubai or Abu Dhabi's major airports.
Editor's Note: While the countries listed below offer visa-on-arrival for most UAE residents, some nationalities may be not be eligible. We highly recommend checking with official tourism websites and your local embassy/consultant before finalising your bookings.
1. Kazakhstan
We'll start off our list of visa-on-arrival destinations for UAE residents with Kazakhstan. This Central Asian country is abundant in nature and cultural stops, from lush lakes and ice-capped mountains to old cathedrals and other historical sites.
An average flight from the UAE to Kazakhstan takes 4hr30min.
Pictured: Mountain Lake Kolsai in Kazakhstan.
2. Jordan
Book your next vacation at the stunning country of Jordan, where there is something for every kind of traveller. At this visa-on-arrival Arab destination, UAE residents will find adventurous activities as well as relaxing and cultural trips to learn more about Jordan's fascinating history.
An average flight from the UAE to Jordan takes 3hr15min.
Pictured: Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), in the ancient city of Petra, Jordan.
3. Georgia
Georgia is one of the most popular short holiday spots for UAE residents, thanks to its low cost to travel there, beautiful weather, gorgeous natural sceneries, wine vineyards, and delicious local food. It's a European-esque vacation without actually having to go through the hassle of applying for a Schengen visa.
An average flight from the UAE to Georgia takes 3hr30min.
Pictured: An old street with grapes in Kakheti, Georgia.
4. Azerbaijan
For those seeking a striking blend of old and new life, travel to Azerbaijan for a visa-on-arrival getaway. This destination is home to mud volcanoes, soaring mountains, cultural trips, and other historical sites.
An average flight from the UAE to Azerbaijan takes 3hr.
Pictured: Views of the Flame Towers in Baku, Azerbaijan
5. Oman
Whenever it's monsoon season (June to August), Oman's Salalah transforms into a luscious bright and green oasis with plenty of natural wonders, including breath-taking waterfalls and high mountain peaks.
While the rest of the country's Arab neighbours have to bear soaring hot summer temperatures, 'Khareef' season brings refreshing rain, festive vibes, plenty of camping and hiking opportunities, and it's also a great time to visit any of Oman's magical wadis.
UAE residents can apply for an e-visa ahead of your trip or get visa-on-arrival.
An average direct flight from the UAE to Oman takes 1hr. If travelling by road, it takes 1hr45min from Dubai and around 3hr from Abu Dhabi.
Pictured: Waterfalls at Salalah, Oman, during Khareef season (Monsoon).
6. Seychelles
Seychelles offers UAE residents visa-on-arrival for 14 days which can be extended for an additional cost. Go island hopping to marvel at their azure waters and sandy white beaches. You can also enjoy water activities such as scuba diving and fishing at this gorgeous beach destination.
An average flight from Dubai to Seychelles takes 4hr30min (travelling from Abu Dhabi would be an average of 6hr flight time).
Pictured: Eden Islands, Seychelles.
7. Maldives
Maldives is another popular island beach holiday spot for UAE residents and it's just a short plane ride away. Enjoy wild sea life encounters such as with dolphins, try snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, tuck into their local cuisine, and much, much more.
An average flight from the UAE to Maldives takes 4hr30min.
Pictured: Maldives.
8. Kyrgyzstan
This Central Asia travel destination offers visa-on-arrival which can be requested at Manas International Airport, with the validity duration depending on the traveller's citizenship(s).
Kyrgyzstan is rich in nature for sprawling pastures and mountains, with an amazing nomadic culture to explore along with fantastic, hearty cuisine.
An average flight from the UAE to Kyrgyzstan takes 4hr.
9. Armenia
Indian UAE residents can receive a visa-on-arrival when travelling to Armenia. Some other nationalities may need to apply for an electronic travel visa (e-visa) which is a very simple procedure and can be done at home in just a few clicks.
Tourists will discover a lot of historical Christian worship sites and monasteries, including some of the world's oldest churches. Fine cuisine, hospitality, culture, local history, beautiful landscapes, and an impressive array of wineries and vineyards makes Armenia another go-to for UAE residents.
An average flight from the UAE to Armenia takes 4hr30min.
Pictured: Participants celebrating the Areni Festival in Armenia.
