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

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      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

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      The ultimate guide to Greek island luxury living this summer

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      1 minute ago

      Dreaming of Greek island bliss? This is your go-to guide for unparalleled luxury whilst island hopping this summer.
      Mystique, a Luxury Collection HotelSantorini, Greece

      This 40-suite hotel is an exclusive hideaway on the island of Santorini. With a muted colour palette, Mystique blends effortlessly into the surroundings of the quaint town of Oia. All of the suites boast a cave-like aura and boast uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea. The hotel features two pools and has a plethora of dining concepts, including a private dining option, for guests to indulge in some of the best Mediterranean cuisine on the island.
      mystique.gr
      PAROCKS Luxury Hotel & SpaParos, Greece

      This boutique hotel is located on the east coast of the island of Paros. Located a stone’s throw away from the lively town of Naoussa, PAROCKS Luxury Hotel & Spa has its very own secluded spot on the coast giving guests the opportunity for ample relaxation. The five-star hotel’s rooms and suites feature either a garden or sea view and all have their own jacuzzi or private pool. Guests can also dine at the all-day a la carte restaurant for Greek and international gastronomic and unwind at the Parocks Spa.
      parockshotel.com
      Orloff HotelHydra, Greece

      Hydra is perhaps the most “off the grid” of all of the Greek islands making it all the more special. The rustic Orloff Hotel embodies the rich heritage of Greece and has a unique history itself. First built in 1796, the hotel was previously known as ‘Orloff House’ and was constructed by a noble Russian sent by Catherine II to assist the Greeks during the Turkish domination. In 1986, it was officially turned into a hotel. The Orloff Hotel features only six rooms and two suites and is filled with charm and character embodying the “echo of nostalgia” of the island of Hydra.
      orloff.gr
      Milos Breeze Boutique HotelMilos, Greece

      Escape to the Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel on the island of Milos and experience endless views of the deep blue Aegean Sea. Blending traditional architecture with authentic luxury, this picturesque spot is the perfect place to escape to during summer. With quaint rooms and suites, some of which have their own pools, guests can relax and unwind at this minimalistic haven.
      milosbreeze.gr/en/
      KalesmaMykonos, Greece

      Stay at a truly special hotel whilst in Mykonos this summer. The uber-exclusive oasis that is Kalesma Mykonos is like no other on the island. Ensuring optimum levels of privacy for all guests, each of the 12 one-bedroom villas, 13 one-bedroom suites and two large villas all have their very own private pools. Blending seamlessly into the surroundings of the island, the look and feel of the hotel has been designed as a collection of houses to resemble a charming Mykonian village. Just a stone’s throw away from all of the liveliness of the island, Kalesma gives you the best of both worlds in Mykonos – party and relaxation.
      kalesmamykonos.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Zeynab El-Helw

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      Fashion

      by Amy Sessions
      1 minute ago

      Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Greg AdamskiCover Star: Zeynab El-HelwMakeup & Hair: Melanie Meyer at MMG ArtistsProduction: Olivia MorrisFashion Editor: Dan RobinsonFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephWith special thanks to SĀN BeachAll crystals Motion Trading
      Welcome to The Summer Escape Issue.
      This issue encourages you to explore and unwind as summer unfolds.
      For our Mykonos-inspired cover shoot Good Vibes Only, we partnered with eco-positive brand Reborn Society – founded by Zeynab El-Helw.
      We have exclusive interviews with all the best resort wear brands from co-founder of Ancient Greek Sandals, Christina Martini in Greek Odyssey, Brittany Kozerski Freeney, founder of Jade Swim in The Minimalist, Linda Hausser, Alexandra Miro in Beachside and Deiji Studios in Cool Comfort.

      Beauty and lifestyle-wise, we look at the best sun protection for your hair in Shield, the finest fragrances inspired by sundown hues in A Summer Mood and we speak to Sacha Mitic, co-founder of cult haircare brand SACHAJUAN in Good Hair Game.
      We spend time at home with Natalia Shustova, Founder of GOSHÁ in Personal Space and speak to some of the most incredible women we know about how they prep for summer in Next Level Beauty and Sculpt.
      Finally, The Wanderlust gives us the go-to guide for Greek island bliss.
      Breathe, take stock, rest, restore and refocus this summer. The best is yet to come…
      July/August’s – ‘The Summer Escape Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      5 luxurious resorts to add to your bucket list

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      1 minute ago

      Set amongst clear sapphire seas, these blissful resorts will enable you to truly escape from it all.
      To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the sophisticated resorts for the perfect summer break.
      Naladhu Private Island Maldives – Maldives

      One of the most exclusive resorts you’ll find in the Maldives is Naladhu Private Island. With just 20 private villas, seclusion and relaxation are what embody a stay at this resort. While each individual accommodation has its own private pool, you’ll most likely find yourself exploring the blue azure waters which surround the private resort. Naladhu also takes the meaning of be- spoke to a whole new level with its no-menu dining concept, where a one-of-a-kind menu is created specifically to your preferences and needs.
      For more information visit naladhu.com
      Hermitage Bay Resort – Antigua

      Nestled in a quiet corner of the Caribbean island of Antigua, the five-star resort Hermitage Bay embodies the natural beauty of the region. Surrounded by lush greenery, white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, this luxury resort is like no other in the region. Hermitage Bay aims to “soothe the soul” of its guests and in a setting like this, you’ll experience the true meaning of what it is to “escape from it all”.
      For more information visit hermitagebay.com
      Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – Maldives

      Escape to the tropical playground of the Maldives at this exclusive resort. Having first opened in 2019, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi takes luxury to a new level. This sprawling resort is now one of the biggest and most impressive in the Maldives. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the resort features an incredible 11 dining concepts – the most of any resort in the country – and also has its very own private island, which is an impressive 344,445-sq ft and can be booked out in its entirety for those seeking ultra seclusion.
      For more information visit waldorfastoriamaldives.com
      The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

      Tucked away on a secluded island in French Polynesia, The St. Regis Bora Bora embodies the epitome of tropical paradise. Surrounded by nothing but sapphire blue waters, it’s a haven you’ll never want to leave once you arrive. To experience the true ‘wow-factor’ of the re- sort, opt for one of the luxurious over-water villas where you’ll see nothing but the blue ocean for miles on end. Each bungalow even features a glass viewing panels on the floor throughout where you’ll be able to catch glimpses of your temporary neighbours – the tropical fish – swimming by.
      For more information visit mariott.com
      Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa – Taha’a, French Polynesia

      Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa is an undisturbed resort located in the tropical islands of French Polynesia. Honouring the traditions of the region, the resort embodies authentic Polynesian architecture and interior design. Engulfed by the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, each accommodation option ensures guests experience the surrounding seas to their maximum. The standout, however, has to be the overwater villas where you’ll experience barefoot luxury at its finest, taking in the refreshing surroundings of the crystal-clear waters. letahaa.com
      For more information visit mariott.com
      What to pack

      June’s – The Clarity Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More