Yes, a visa is required to travel from Iran to United Arab Emirates.
Apply with iVisa
Do I need a visa for United Arab Emirates from Iran?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Yes. Iranian nationals must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) before travelling to the United Arab Emirates for tourism.
The United Arab Emirates does not grant visa-free entry to Iranian travellers: an e-Visa must be secured in advance. The application is made online, usually through the official portal or via a sponsor such as an airline, hotel, or UAE resident. The fee and validity depend on the visa type and are stated on the official portal.
Do you need a visa?
Iranian citizens do not have visa-free access to the United Arab Emirates and must obtain a tourist e-Visa before departure. Some entry points may offer visa on arrival for certain nationalities, but Iranians should assume prior authorisation is required. Check availability and the exact conditions on the official ICP portal before booking your tickets.
How and where to apply
The e-Visa application is completed online, either directly through the ICP smart services (icp.gov.ae) or via a UAE sponsor such as an airline (for example Emirates), a hotel, or a tour operator. In Dubai, the GDRFA also handles visa applications. Create an account, upload the required documents, and track your application status online.
Documents and fees
Prepare a passport valid for at least six months on the date of entry, a recent digital passport photo, a copy of the passport bio-data page, and, where applicable, confirmation of hotel and return flight bookings. Visa fees vary by duration and visa type; they are not fixed here and must be checked on the official portal. A complete, legible file speeds up processing.
Processing and tips
Processing time depends on the channel chosen and is not guaranteed; submit your application several days before departure to avoid last-minute problems. Keep your e-Visa in both digital and printed form for boarding and entry control. Make sure the spelling of your name matches your passport exactly.
Common mistakes
Do not turn up assuming visa on arrival: Iranian nationals must secure authorisation beforehand. Do not travel on a passport valid for less than six months, a frequent cause of denied boarding. Finally, check that the details you enter match the passport exactly, as any discrepancy can invalidate the visa.
Official sources
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA)
- Emirates – UAE visa services
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
Discover the best activities and experiences in United Arab Emirates
- ✅ Free cancellation up to 24h before
- 🌍 Over 150,000 activities worldwide
- ⭐ Verified reviews from real travelers
- 💬 24/7 customer support
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to United Arab Emirates from Iran?▾
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
Other visas from Iran
Other visas to United Arab Emirates
Visa alerts and regulations
Receive the latest visa updates and travel advice
We will never share your email. Unsubscribe at any time.