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    Eid escape: 12 destinations with visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

    If you’re looking for a much-needed escape for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holidays without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
    While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
    Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
    Georgia

    All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Armenia

    With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
    Flight time: 3 hours & 10 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Azerbaijan

    Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present their passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
    Flight time: 3 hours approx. 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Japan

    If Japan was on your travel bucket list this year, the process to visit is now a whole lot easier with the latest e-visa laws. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a new online tourist visa system. All residents are required to apply more than seven days before their trip. Applicants will need to apply via the dedicated website Japan eVISA, where upon successful submission, a digital confirmation visa will be sent to the applicant. At immigration, visitors will need to simply log on to the website and show the visa upon entry. The new system allows residents of permitted countries to apply for an online tourist visa which will grant e-visas for up to 90 days in Japan.
    Flight time: 9 hours and 34 minutes
    For the latest visa requirements visit here.
    Maldives

    For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 15 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Seychelles

    With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 35 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Nepal

    Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 20 minutes
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Serbia

    For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
    Flight time: 5 hours & 55 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Indonesia

    With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
    Flight time: 8 hours & 27 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Mauritius

    Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
    Flight time: 6 hours & 35 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Sri Lanka

    All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
    Flight time: 4 hours & 30 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Thailand

    All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
    Flight time: 6 hours and 20 minutes 
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @clairerose More

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    Find out where the UAE ranks in the latest 2023 passport index

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    19 mins ago

    With travel back on everyone’s mind, visiting visa-free destinations has become of utmost importance.
    Per Henley’s 2023 Passport Index, UAE passport holders can access 178 out of 228 countries either without a visa or visa on arrival.
    As a mirror of the country’s day-by-day advancements and awe-inspiring progress, the visa-free travel option with this passport promotes freedom of movement to many countries around the world without any added hassle. The index overall compares the visa-free access of 199 different passports to 227 travel destinations.
    According to the latest data released, it shows that the country has made remarkable progress since 2006 when it then ranked 62nd on the index. With its commendable leap, the UAE continues to remain the strongest in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
    At the bottom of the ranking is Afghanistan with 27 visa-free destinations, followed by Iraq with 29 destinations and Syria with a score of 30. The other countries on the list are Pakistan at 32 destinations, Yemen at 34, Somalia at 35, Nepal at 38 destinations and North Korea at 40 destinations.
    The most powerful passports in the world
    1. Japan2. Singapore and South Korea3. Germany and Spain4. Finland, Italy and Luxembourg5. Austria, Denmark, Netherlands and Sweden6. France, Ireland, Portugal and the UK7. Belgium, Czech Republic, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland and the US8. Australia, Canada, Malta and Greece9. Hungary and Poland10. Lithuania and Slovakia11. Latvia and Slovenia12. Estonia13. Iceland14. Malaysia15. Liechtenstein and the UAE
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @visitdubai More

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    All the major changes that took place in the UAE in 2022

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    46 mins ago

    The UAE is a country of endless possibilities and with leaders with a vision to consistently look to the future.
    With this in mind, in 2022 alone there have been a number of changes to continue to make the UAE an attractive place to live.
    From visa updates to an amendment in labour laws, a host of new rules and regulations were launched this year.
    For an overview of all the updates, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the changes made in 2022.
    New visa system
    With visas being a major topic of discussion this year, the country continues to welcome expats from around the globe, especially with all the new visas here. The new system of entry and residence was launched to retain global talents and skilled workers from October 3, 2022. The latest visas introduced include a visitor visa which has increased the duration from 30 to 60 days after the individual has proved sufficient funds. For those who wish to start their own company, a business visa can be granted without a sponsor. Visas can also be granted for internship programmes, study courses and training purposes, and for any-project based work or temporary assignments, candidates can receive a temporary work visa. Now, families also have the option of sponsoring male children until the age of 25, where it was previously granted for 18 years old. The other visas available include a multi-entry tourist visa, a Green visa and a Golden visa for individuals who fall under the categories of entrepreneurs, real estate owners, exceptional talents, scientists & researchers, outstanding students and skilled workers.
    Working week shift

    #UAE announces today that it will transition to a four and a half day working week, with Friday afternoon, Saturday and Sunday forming the new weekend.
    All Federal government departments will move to the new weekend from January 1, 2022. pic.twitter.com/tQoa22pai9
    — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) December 7, 2021

    Starting from January 1, 2022, this year, the UAE Government Media Office transitioned to a new model with Saturday and Sunday forming the weekend days. Additionally, the UAE government made an announcement that the working week would be a four-and-a-half-day week for Federal employees from Monday to Thursday, 7:30am to 3:30pm with employees working for 4.5 hours on Friday and the flexibility to work from home.
    Labour law updates
    With only full-time employment possible before, employees now have the possibility to opt for temporary and flexible work, freelance jobs, condensed working hours and shared jobs. This new law allows employees to work part-time, job share, take on temporary work, or work for more than one employer for a specified number of days. Per the new contract, employees can work 40 hours a week and can perform all 40 hours in three if they would like to do so.
    Tech-driven Emirati passports

    The new generation of the UAE Passport.@MoFAICUAE____#IdentityCitizenshipCustomsAndPortSecurity #UAEPassport pic.twitter.com/TSg6X4gnUw
    — Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE (@UAEICP) August 11, 2022

    With innovation at the forefront, the government launched the next generation of Emirati passports on September 1, 2022, with technical specifications to promote security and safety for international travel. Designed to enhance the UAE’s international competitiveness to promote security and safety for international travel. The key features include a detail-oriented identification page with a holographic logo and enhanced elements to reduce attempts of forgery. Per the state news agency WAM, these changes are in line with the directions of the wise leadership to consolidate the movement toward a smart government in the UAE.
    E-cheques are now the future
    Through a partnership between Dubai Land Department and Emirates NBD, cheque payments for rental have been automated using the Central Bank of the UAE’s Direct Debit System (UAEDDS) allowing tenants to make payments through their bank accounts instead of issuing physical cheques. Tenants will also have the option of flexible payment plans and facilitate easy transfer without any added hassle.
    Emirates IDs are the new visas
    Since May 16, 2022, Emirates ID cards have officially replaced residence visa stickers across all emirates except Dubai. All relevant information is documented and stored within Emirates ID cards to merge residence and identity card applications, instead of processing them separately leading to a number of benefits. This rule now cuts paperwork and the time taken to process applications, with a more detailed outline showcasing a 3D picture, date of birth on the cardholder, and enhanced protection of non-visible data including employment information.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & feature image: Instagram @alphaspotting More

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    UAE nationals can now obtain passports online in 30 minutes

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    42 mins ago

    Emirati travellers now have a solution for the expiry, loss and damage of passports.
    To curb this issue, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) has launched its e-document service for UAE travellers returning from abroad.
    With this new electronic service, the government ensures a seamless service to speed up the issuance of emergency passports without any charges or the need to visit an embassy or consulate to receive the travel documents.
    Abdulaziz Al Hebsi, Director of the UAE Nationals Affairs Department at the Ministry, said the ministry’s Service Development Team has worked relentlessly to simplify and facilitate relevant procedures, adding that the service was enhanced in response to customer feedback.
    Thus, UAE nationals can obtain the travel document at any time and from any place to receive it via e-mail without any added hassle.

    Introduced to keep in line with the UAE’s visionary leadership, the ministry is working towards providing outstanding digital services and offerings as per the highest quality standards.
    To apply for the service, Emirati travellers can simply opt for the service on the ministry’s website at mofaic.gov.ae or log on to the smart application UAE MOFAIC available on both iOS and Android stores.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Unsplash @corinne-kutz More

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    UAE to launch new tech-driven Emirati passport next month

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    The UAE will introduce a new generation of Emirati passports from next month.
    With innovation at the forefront, the new version of passports, which will launch on September 1, 2022, will feature technical specifications to promote security and safety for international travel.
    Launched as part of the national ID card project that began in June 2021, this change is all set to enhance the UAE’s international competitiveness on a global scale and reduce the attempts of forgery with its detail-oriented identification page.
    Per the state news agency WAM, these changes are in line with the directions of the wise leadership to consolidate the movement toward a smart government in the UAE.
    The latest features include a fine security thread, decorative carvings with highly complicated spectrums, photographs printed with advanced security features, a holographic logo for authenticity, a refined three-dimensional intaglio showcasing the date of birth and a watermark with the UAE emblem.
    To reduce any external damages, polycarbonate is used instead of paper due to its thickness and increased quality for specialised printing.

    The new generation of the UAE Passport.@MoFAICUAE____#IdentityCitizenshipCustomsAndPortSecurity #UAEPassport pic.twitter.com/TSg6X4gnUw
    — Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE (@UAEICP) August 11, 2022

    “The project aims to enhance the flexibility of doing business related to individuals in various institutions of the UAE, in order to improve the quality of life and provide a travel experience that strengthens the leading position of the UAE,” the chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, Ali Muhammad Al Shamsi, said.
    With the UAE’s strong ranking on the global map, per the Henley Passport Index for 2022, making it the highest in the Arab world, such changes are a step further to strengthen its position on the list.
    All Emirati passport holders will also need to verify the validity of their documents for a period of no less than six months before they travel with the possibility of issuing passports while being abroad through the UAE.
    Passports for holders of the previous generations are still considered valid until their next expiry date approaches for renewal. The new generation passport can be applied for once there is a six months validity left on the current passport.
    The Emirati passport can be renewed through the website or the UAEICP smart application.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    11 destinations that have visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    If you’re looking for a quick escape without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
    While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
    Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
    Georgia

    All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Armenia

    With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Azerbaijan

    Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present the passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Maldives

    For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Seychelles

    With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Nepal

    Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Serbia

    For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, a negative PCR test issued prior to travel, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Indonesia

    With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Mauritius

    Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Sri Lanka

    All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    Thailand

    All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
    You can check the latest visa regulations here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @sunny_rung More