Somalia
United Arab EmiratesDo Somalia citizens need a visa for United Arab Emirates?
eVisa required · 30-60 days (eVisa)
For an ordinary Somalia passport visiting United Arab Emirates for tourism, business, or transit (short stay up to 30 days).
Reviewed and cross-checked· Last verified 3 July 2026
Short-stay rules at a glance
- Visa requirement
- eVisa required
- Max stay
- 30-60 days (eVisa)
- Entry type
- All ports of entry
- Passport validity
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Requirements
- eVisa or pre-arranged visa via UAE diplomatic missions, smart-service portal, or sponsoring UAE airline (Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia, Turkish Airlines)
- Notes
- Catch-all for nationalities not on free VOA lists. Conditional VOA exception for ID/VN/TH/PH/KE/ZA nationals holding a qualifying third-country residence permit (see exceptions).
Special rules & exceptions
- Nationals of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa who hold a valid, current residence permit issued by the United States, an EU member state, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada may instead obtain visa-on-arrival: 14 days (AED 100, extendable once) or 60 days (AED 250, single stay, non-extendable). AED 50/day overstay fine applies. Effective 25 June 2026. Without a qualifying residence permit, these nationalities remain on the standard eVisa pathway.
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Frequently asked questions
Do Somalia citizens need a visa to travel to United Arab Emirates?
Based on GoMate's data verified against official and consular sources, the short-stay rule for an ordinary Somalia passport entering United Arab Emirates is "eVisa required", for stays of up to 30-60 days (eVisa). This covers short visits for tourism, business, or transit. Entry requirements can change, so always confirm with the United Arab Emirates embassy before traveling.
How long can Somalia citizens stay in United Arab Emirates?
Under current regulations, Somalia passport holders may stay in United Arab Emirates for up to 30-60 days (eVisa) per entry on a short-stay basis (tourism, business, or transit). Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and may affect future visa applications, so plan to leave within the permitted period.
How do Somalia citizens apply for a United Arab Emirates visa, step by step?
Somalia passport holders must apply for an eVisa online before traveling to United Arab Emirates. Complete the application, upload the required documents, pay the fee, and wait for approval before departure. Be ready to provide: eVisa or pre-arranged visa via UAE diplomatic missions, smart-service portal, or sponsoring UAE airline (Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia, Turkish Airlines).
What documents do Somalia citizens need to enter United Arab Emirates?
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Additional requirements: eVisa or pre-arranged visa via UAE diplomatic missions, smart-service portal, or sponsoring UAE airline (Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia, Turkish Airlines). Carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds, as these may be checked at the border.
Can Somalia citizens work in United Arab Emirates on this entry?
No. Short-stay entry to United Arab Emirates is intended for tourism, business meetings, and transit — it does not permit paid employment. To work in United Arab Emirates, Somalia citizens need a separate work visa or permit arranged in advance.
Can Somalia citizens extend their stay in United Arab Emirates?
The 30-60 days (eVisa) short-stay limit is generally firm. Extensions are sometimes possible by applying to the United Arab Emirates immigration authorities before your permitted stay ends. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and may affect future visa applications, so do not rely on it.
Is this United Arab Emirates visa rule for Somalia citizens up to date?
This rule was last reviewed on 3 July 2026. Visa policies change frequently — always confirm the final requirements with the United Arab Emirates embassy or government before you travel.
Visa policies change without notice. Always confirm the final requirements directly with the United Arab Emirates embassy or government before travel.