The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new entry pathway allowing citizens from select countries, including Kenya and South Africa, to obtain a 60-day visa. This scheme, outlined by the UAE's Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, targets ordinary passport holders from qualifying nations and creates a structured pathway for family visits to the Gulf state. Eligible primary visa holders can sponsor immediate family members, including spouses, children, parents, and parents-in-law, under the scheme.
To qualify for the 60-day visa, applicants must already hold a valid visa or residency permit from one of several recognised countries. These countries include the United Kingdom, the United States, any European Union member state, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea. The policy is designed to keep family units together during visits rather than requiring each member to secure independent visas.
Kenya and South Africa are among a handful of African countries whose citizens can now bring immediate family members into the UAE for up to 60 days. They are joined by Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines as Asian and African nations covered by the scheme. Indian nationals are also included under comparable rules, with the addition of a valid US Green Card as an accepted document.
Eligibility for the 60-day visa is not automatic for Kenyan and South African passport holders. Applicants must meet the specific requirements outlined by the UAE authorities. The pathway is limited to holders of ordinary travel documents, and citizens travelling on diplomatic or official passports are excluded from this specific arrangement and must use separate immigration channels.
The UAE has positioned the measure as part of its broader effort to strengthen travel and trade connections across Africa and Asia, reinforcing its standing as a major international hub. This move aims to enhance family visits and promote tourism between the UAE and select countries.
In a related development, the UAE has launched an online portal allowing foreigners anywhere in the world to check whether they qualify for its Golden Visa. With this, applicants receive a renewable residence visa valid for either five or ten years. Holders are not required to have a national sponsor, making it an attractive option for those looking to reside in the UAE long-term.
The introduction of the 60-day visa and the Golden Visa eligibility checking website demonstrate the UAE's efforts to streamline its immigration processes and attract visitors and residents from around the world. These measures are expected to have a positive impact on the country's tourism and economy.
Key points
- Eligible countries for the 60-day visa include Kenya, South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines.
- Applicants must hold a valid visa or residency permit from specific countries to qualify for the 60-day visa.
- The UAE's new entry pathway allows primary visa holders to sponsor immediate family members for the same 60-day period.
