Yes, a visa is required to travel from The Gambia to United Arab Emirates.
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Do I need a visa for United Arab Emirates from The Gambia?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Gambian citizens must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) before travelling to the United Arab Emirates. The application is made online before departure from Banjul.
The UAE does not grant visa-free entry to Gambian nationals: a tourist e-Visa must be obtained before boarding. The application is made online on the official ICP portal, usually with the help of a sponsoring airline or an approved hotel. A visa on arrival may be offered at some entry points, but it should not be relied on by default.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. Travellers holding a Gambian passport must obtain an e-Visa before entering the United Arab Emirates. This electronic visa covers tourism and short stays; the validity and permitted length of stay depend on the category selected on the official portal.
How and where to apply
The application is completed entirely online on the ICP portal (icp.gov.ae). UAE carriers such as Emirates and Etihad, along with approved hotels, can sponsor and submit the file on your behalf. No consular appointment is required: the approved visa is delivered electronically.
Documents and fees
Gather a Gambian passport valid for at least six months from entry, a compliant passport photo, an accommodation address and a return ticket. Proof of funds may be required depending on the category. Fees vary with duration (30- or 60-day visa, single or multiple entry): check the exact price on the official portal before paying.
Processing and tips
Processing of a UAE e-Visa is generally quick, but checks can extend it; submit several days before your flight. Make sure your name is entered exactly as it appears on your passport and keep a printed copy as well as a digital version of the visa for boarding and the check on arrival.
Common mistakes
The most frequent errors involve a passport valid for less than six months, a non-compliant photo, a mistake in personal details, or relying on a visa on arrival without confirmation. Always respect the permitted length of stay to avoid an overstay, which is penalised with fines.
Official sources
- ICP — Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security
- GDRFA Dubai — General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs
- UAE Government official portal (u.ae)
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
Essential United Arab Emirates information
The United Arab Emirates presents a solid and prosperous economy with stable politics in a dynamic regional context. The country shows sustained economic growth around 4.8% in 2025 and 2026, driven by diversification of the non-hydrocarbon sector and expansion of digital and logistics services.
Weather in Abu Dhabi
Practical travel information
- Arabe
- Anglais
Essential preparations
- Police : 999
- Ambulance : 998
- Fire brigade : 997
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to United Arab Emirates from The Gambia?▾
Yes, an e-visa (electronic visa) is required. It is applied for online before departure and allows a stay of 180 days.
How long can you stay in United Arab Emirates?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 180 days.
What other visa types exist for United Arab Emirates?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, United Arab Emirates offers among others: Job Seeker / Exploration visa, Green Visa (5-year residency), Virtual Working Programme (digital nomad), Employment Residence visa (employer-sponsored), Student visa, Family Residence visa (dependant).
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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