Best Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents in 2026

Planning an overseas holiday is made all the easier with a simple visa process. Residents are enjoying visa-free entry, visa on arrival and other benefits from many countries owing to the validity of their residence visas and the immigration laws of the relevant country. 

But it is important to keep in mind that having a UAE residence visa does not mean that one is eligible for any visas to countries that have a visa-free policy. However, residents can expect a stress-free vacation in a foreign country.

In this post, we provide you with the list of the best visa-free countries for UAE residents with great attractions, access from the UAE and short travel time.

Things to Know Before You Travel

Please ensure that you have a valid passport and a valid UAE Residence visa before travelling abroad. Also, some countries will inquire for evidence of onward travel, hotel booking, travel insurance and adequate financial arrangements for the travel. 

Also, the rules for visas change periodically, and it’s best to find out just what they’re before setting out.

Top Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents

List of countries allowing UAE nationals to visit non-visa-free:

1. Georgia

UAE citizens enjoy visiting this former Soviet country for its scenic beauty, which features a combination of mountains, historic cities and delights at great restaurants. Visit the capital of Tbilisi, explore the mountains of the Caucasus and go on a wine tasting tour into Georgia’s countryside. The country is easily reachable from the UAE by plane with direct flights. Summers are the most popular season to visit Georgia.

Direct flights from Dubai to Tbilisi take around 3 hours 30 minutes. Direct flights are available when traveling by air; flydubai and Emirates (codeshare) service direct flights, and Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways have connecting flights. The fare for the economy class will begin from AED 800 – AED 1100 return, depending on the season.

Some of the top tourist attractions include:

• Tbilisi Old Town, Kazbegi & Gergeti Trinity Church, Gudauri Ski Resort, Kakheti Wine Region, Batumi, Uplistsikhe Cave Town and Prometheus Cave.

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• Budget: The Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center costs the same (AED 180/night).
• Mid Range: Holiday Inn Tbilisi (AED: 340/night)
•  Luxury: Stamba Hotel price range starts from AED 700/night.

The best times to visit this place are the months of April – June and September – October, moderate for sightseeing and walking; while in the winter (December – February) it is the ideal time to ski in Gudauri.

International car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and local car rental companies are all available in Georgia; the price to hire a car begins from AED 110 per day. It’s advisable to have an International Driving Permit.

Some of the best things you can do here are wander around the charming streets of Tbilisi, take a cable car ride to Narikala Fortress, wine tasting in Kakheti Region, hiking adventure in Kazbegi, Skiing in Gudauri, relax and bathe in the sulfur springs and enjoy the view from the beautiful Batumi Boulevard.

Meanwhile, you can expect to stay at a low-cost hotel, meet nice people and enjoy beautiful panoramic views of valleys and mountains! This major city has a lot to offer in terms of modern infrastructure, good roads and even transportation. The majority of people speak English.

Here’s how the currency exchange works here:

• Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)
• 1 AED ≈ 0.74 GEL (exchange rates may vary)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 10°C – 22°C
• Summer: 25°C – 35°C
• Autumn: 20°C – 26°C
• Winter: 5°C – 10°C

Major dishes of Georgian cuisine include: Khinkali, Khachapuri, Mtsvadi and Lobio. In addition to the numerous delicacies, local wine is offered and there are vegetarian and halal-friendly restaurants, particularly in the capital city.

The city offers excellent night entertainment, rooftop bars, wine bars, jazz cafes, casinos and nightclubs. But more family-friendly and more for couples than Dubai are the bars and restaurants on Batumi Boulevard.

Dos & Don’ts

• Do: Respect churches, carry cash in remote areas, and try out local foods.
• Don’t: Don’t drive while impaired, don’t take pictures in churches and monasteries, and be resistant to mountain weather forecasts.

2. Armenia

Armenia has a lot to offer both nature lovers and those who like to explore the city. You can enjoy breathtaking scenery in the mountains and lakes, as you taste the local cuisine, too. Several UAE nationals are allowed visa-free entry into the country.

Taking overnight direct flights from Dubai to Yerevan will take approximately 3 hours. There are direct flights using flydubai and Air Arabia, and indirect flights with regional carriers. Return economy class starts from AED 700 – AED 1000.

Some of the top tourist attractions include:

• Republic Square, Cascade Complex, Lake Sevan, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Dilijan National Park and  Khor Virap Monastery

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• Ibis Yerevan Center is a low-budget hotel which is AED 190/night 
• Mid Range: Ramada Hotel & Suites Yerevan from AED 350/night 
• The Alexander is a Luxury Collection Hotel from AED 900/night in Khaimah, UAE.

The best time to visit is May – June and September – October. In the winter season, it is recommended to stay at the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor.

International car rental companies are included under car rental agencies. Other rental agencies, which include Sixt, Europcar and Local Rent. It’s advisable to have an International Driving Permit; car rental starts from AED 120/day.

Some of the best things you can do in Armenia is enjoy at the World Heritage-listed monasteries and ancient temples, shop in Yerevan, relax at Lake Sevan, enjoy hiking and nature trails in Dilijan National Park and take a ride in the Wings of Tatev cable car. Additionally, tours of local vineyards to taste wine and brandy.

Here, you will find neighborly folks, low-cost comings and goings and sensational landscapes with views of the mountains. It is economical to use public transport, but the services of private transport are available. Most credit cards are accepted at popular locales.

Here’s how the currency exchange works in Armenia:

• Currency: Armenian Dram (AMD)
• 1 AED ≈ 105 AMD (exchange rates may vary)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 10°C – 22°C
• Summer: 25°C – 35°C
• Autumn: 20°C – 26°C
• Winter: 5°C – 10°C

Sample local dishes such as Khorovats/American Shanbareen, Dolma, Lavash, Harissa and Ghapama (pastries). Options for international and vegetarian restaurants, along with halal options, are available in the capital.

There are interesting places to go at night in Yerevan, such as rooftop lounges, casinos, pubs, wine bars and cafes. Together with Northern Avenue, the city center is the most popular spot.

Dos & Don’ts

• Do: Be modest when visiting monasteries; bring cash to the local markets; learn some basic Armenian phrases.
• Don’t: Smoke in an area where it is not allowed, break down historic buildings and not clean up after you have visited national parks.

3. Azerbaijan

Eligible UAE nationals can enjoy a short flight from the UAE to Azerbaijan. This former Soviet state is an exotic destination with mountainous areas in the north and desert areas in the south. The city of Baku can be explored as a modern city with the UNESCO World Heritage-old town.

Direct Flights from Dubai to Baku take around 3 hours. There are direct flights with flydubai, Emirates (codeshare) and AZAL – Azerbaijan Airlines. Economy class returns begin as low as AED 750 – AED 1100 in the low season.

Some of the top tourist attractions here are:

• Baku Old City (Icherisheher), Flame Towers, Heydar Aliyev Center, Gobustan National Park, Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain), Shahdag Mountain Resort and Baku Boulevard

Meanwhile, some of the popular tourist attractions you can find here include:

• Accommodations: Budget: Ibis Baku City from AED 170/night 
• Mid Range: Holiday Inn Baku from AED 380/night 
• People of luxury sleep in the Four Seasons Hotel Baku, which rents for AED 1050/night.

The best time to visit is April to June and also September to October; the winter season (December to February) is good for any kind of sporting pastimes that can be carried out, particularly skiing in Shahdag.

Car rental agencies like Avis and Europcar, Hertz, etc. can be used, as well as any local car rental agencies. Car rental starts from AED 120/day. It is recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit.

Some of the best things you can do here is wander around the Baku Boulevard, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Baku Old City, visit the peculiar mud volcanoes and ancient petroglyphs in Gobustan National Park, shop in the bustling Nizami Street, take a ride on the Baku Ferris Wheel and enjoy winter sports such as skiing in the Shahdag Mountain Resort.

You can also expect modern infrastructure with excellent road networks and a good public transport system here. Easy-going people, low cost/high quality food and shopping. Baku is a combination of European and Asian culture.

Here’s how the currency exchange works in Azerbaijan:

• Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
• 1 AED ≈ 0.46 AZN (exchange rates may vary)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 10°C – 22°C
• Summer: 25°C – 35°C
• Autumn: 20°C – 26°C
• Winter: 5°C – 10°C

Plov, Dolma, Kebabs, Dushbara, Lavangi and tea are some of the local cuisines. The city has numerous vegetarian and halal restaurants from all over the world.

Moreover, in the rooftop lounges, the waterfront cafes, live music venues, luxury hotels, beach clubs and modern entertainment of Fountain Square and the waterfront to the Caspian Sea, Baku has an exciting nightlife scene.

Dos & Don’ts

Do: Always carry some cash, respect religious sites and wear warm clothes to avoid the cold  while visiting mountain areas.

Don’t: Do not vandalize or litter, do not disobey traffic signs and signals, and do not take pictures of Government buildings.

4. Jordan

Petra, the Dead Sea, and unique experiences in the desert Wadi Rum are popular tourism spots of this exotic Middle Eastern land. There’s a great offer for UAE nationals who can obtain a visa on arrival to visit this exotic land.

Direct Flights from Dubai to Amman take around 3 hours 15 minutes. The direct flights are operated by Emirates, flydubai, Royal Jordanian and Air Arabia, while the connecting flights are available with Jazeera Airways. Economy class fares are from AED 900 – AED 1300.

Some of the top tourist attractions here include:

• Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Amman Citadel, Roman Theatre, Jerash, Aqaba

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• One night at ibis Amman costs AED 200.
• Mid Range: Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa – AED 500/night
• This is a luxurious hotel that has been decorated in royal style. Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Amman from AED 1100 per night.

March to May and September to November are the best times to explore Petra, Wadi Rum and Aqaba, while winter is a good time to visit the Dead Sea.

Car rental is available with most of the international car rental agencies such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar and local car rental agencies. International Driving Permit required; car rental prices begin at AED 140/day.

Also, enjoy a trip to the ancient city of Petra, spend nights out on our beautiful camping grounds of Wadi Rum, bask in the sun along the Dead Sea, dive in Aqaba, visit ancient Roman archaeological ruins at Jerash, immerse yourself in Bedouin culture and enjoy shopping at local markets in Amman.

What you can expect here is friendly locals and excellent service to customers. World-class tourism infrastructure such as roads, accommodation and activities at affordable prices. From most places, you will find an English-speaking service provider on hand.

Here’s how the currency exchange works in Jordan:

• Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
• 1 AED ≈ 0.19 JOD (exchange rates may vary)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 15–28°C
• Summer: 30–40°C
• Autumn: 18°C – 30°C 
• Winter: 5°C – 15°C 

Mansaf, Falafel, Hummus, Maqluba, Shawarma, Kunafa and mezze are some of the local delicacies. There is a wide range of different vegetarian, halal and international foods available.

Meanwhile, the nightlife is vibrant with rooftop cafes, lounges and music venues, restaurants and shisha cafes in the city of Amman. Holidays on Aqaba beach clubs and entertainment are possible in Aqaba, a coastal city.

Dos & Don’ts

• Do: Wear modest clothing at religious/ historic locations, bring some change in local currency, adhere to local traditions and customs.
• Don’t: Taking photographs of military installations, inappropriate behavior in conservative areas, and accessing buildings without approval.

5. Oman

For those who seek an ultimate road trip, Oman is the ideal destination with mountains and the desert, beaches and Arabian hospitality. Some of the most popular amongst the attractions of Oman are: Muscat, Salalah and Jebel Akhdar. The country is one of the most popular weekend/vacation escape routes for many UAE residents, as it’s easy to get to.

Direct Flights from Dubai to Muscat take around 1 hour 10 minutes. Emirates, flydubai, Oman Air, Air Arabia and SalamAir are the providers of direct flights. Return economy class starts from AED 450 – AED 700.

Some of the top tourist attractions here include:

• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, Jebel Akhdar, Jebel Shams, Wadi Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole, Salalah and Nizwa Fort

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find are:

• Budget: Ibis Muscat is available from AED 170/night
• Mid Range: Apartments in Muscat – AED 420 per night
• Luxury: Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton Hotel from AED 1100/night

October-December and April-May are the best months to visit Oman. Salalah is rainy during June – September, making it the best time to visit.

International car rental agencies like Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and local car rental agencies offer car rentals. The renting of a car begins from AED 110 per day. Thanks to the car rental agencies of the UAE, Oman accepts the driving license from the GCC countries.

Visit the forts and souqs of Muscat, hike in Wadi Shab, swim in Bimmah Sinkholes, camp on Wahiba Sands and Jebel Akhdar and enjoy some Dolphin watching. You can also relax and enjoy the spectacular views in the Sultan Qaboos Royal Park, Muscat Corniche and along the local beach.

Friendly people, clean and well-kept city and good roads. The culture is traditional Arabia and there are a number of family-friendly activities and events. Fuel is relatively low cost.

Here’s how the currency exchange works:

• Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
• 1 AED ≈ 0.10 OMR (exchange rates fluctuate)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 22–32°C
• Summer: 35°C – 45°C 
• Autumn: 25°C – 35°C 
• Winter: 18–28°C

Delicacies include seafood, Majboos, Mashuai, Omani halwa and Arabic coffee, besides a few other delicacies. Numerous Indian, Lebanese, Asian and international restaurants.

Muscat boasts a very exciting after-work life that will see you have a fine selection of cafes on the beach and lounge bars at the hotels, restaurants and cultural events too. Unlike the UAE, there are no “family objectionable” establishments, but great cafes and beach bars are family-friendly options for a good time.

Dos & Don’ts

• Do: Avoid revealing too much, dress modestly, accept local customs, carry cash.
• Don’t: Do not drink in public places or to litter on the beaches and the wadis, or take photographs of people without permission.

6. Bahrain

Bahrain is a short flight from the UAE with popular attractions such as the Bahrain Fort, ancient Bab Al Bahrain and all of the modern shopping streets to enjoy in this small Gulf kingdom. This makes the nation a haven for those who enjoy a holiday in the nearby Gulf nation for a few days.

Direct Flights take around 1 hour 15 minutes. Direct Flights are run by Emirates, flydubai, Gulf Air and Air Arabia. Backwards economy class tickets are available from AED 450 – AED 800.

Some of the top tourist attractions here include:

• Bahrain Fort, Bab Al Bahrain, Al Fateh Grand Mosque, Bahrain National Museum, Bahrain International Circuit, The Avenues Bahrain and Tree of Life

Meanwhile, some of the popular tourist attractions you can find here are:

• Budget: Ibis Seef Manama AED 180/night
• Hilton Garden Inn Bahrain Bay offers mid-range accommodation, starting at AED 420 per night
• Beauty Palace: Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay from AED 1200/night

The weather in Bahrain is best between November and April.

In Bahrain, car hire can be taken advantage of by Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar and local car rental companies. Car rental starts from AED 100/day. The UAE is a popular destination for rental drivers who have licenses issued by car rental agencies.

Additionally, explore Bahrain Fort, visit Al Fateh Grand Mosque in Muharraq (the country’s largest), relax at the beach, discover the Formula 1 races, and visit the local museums and cultural centres, among others.

You can expect a new state and superbly developed infrastructure along with shopping options here. Local friendliness and variety of food.

Here’s how the currency exchange works:

• Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
• 1 AED ≈ 0.10 BHD (exchange rates fluctuate)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 22–30°C

• Summer: 35–42°C
• Autumn: 25°C – 35°C 
• Winter: 16–24°C

Foods served include machboos, seafood, grilled meat, Arabic mezze, Bahraini sweets and international dishes such as Indian delicacies, Japanese foods, and even Italian dishes.

Bahrain offers exciting nightlife in the form of rooftop bars, hotel lounges, beach clubs, live music venues and waterfront restaurants.

Dos & Don’ts

• Do: Wear modest clothing, obey Islamic laws, have an identification card with you.
• Don’t: Do not drink, do not take photographs of government buildings and do not do anything that is likely to cause a nuisance in residential areas.

More Countries UAE Residents Can Visit with Easy Entry

Here are few more countries where UAE residents can visit with easy entry:

1. Maldives

Among the many tropical destinations available, the Maldives is certainly one of the most popular holiday spots, offering numerous beaches and crystal clear waters, and features an abundance of some of the world’s greatest snorkeling and diving spots. Furthermore, a Maldives visa on arrival is also available for suitable residents of the UAE. This makes it an excellent place to take a honeymoon, vacation with friends or family, as well as for sports-minded climbers.

Direct flights from Dubai to Malé take approximately 4 hours 15 minutes. Direct services are available with Emirates and flydubai (selected seasons), with additional connections through regional airlines. Return fares generally start from AED 1,300–1,800.

Some of the top tourist attractions here include:

• Malé City, Maafushi Island, Banana Reef, Vaadhoo Island, Hulhumalé, Ari Atoll and Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• Budget: Kaani Palm Beach – from AED 350/night
• Mid-range: Meeru Maldives Resort – from AED 950/night 
• Luxury: Soneva Fushi – from AED 4,500/night

The best period is November to April for sunny weather and calm seas.

Also, car rentals are generally not required, as transport is mainly by speedboat, domestic flight, or seaplane.

A few things you can do here are snorkelling, scuba diving, dolphin cruises, sunset sailing, spa treatments, island hopping, water sports, and underwater dining.

Moreover, you can expect luxury resorts, crystal-clear waters, premium pricing, relaxed island life, and outstanding hospitality in Maldives.

Here’s how the currency exchange works:

• Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
• 1 AED ≈ 4.20 MVR (exchange rates fluctuate)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Dry Season (Nov-Apr): Sunny and ideal for beach holidays.
• Wet Season (May-Oct): Occasional tropical showers with fewer crowds.

Fresh seafood, grilled fish, tuna curry, coconut-based dishes, tropical fruits, and extensive international dining options are available at resorts.

Resorts in Maldives offer beach bars, sunset lounges, live music, private dinners, and evening entertainment rather than traditional clubbing.

Dos & Don’ts

Do

• Respect local customs on inhabited islands.
• Use sunscreen.
• Dress modestly outside resort islands.

Don’t

• Damage coral reefs.
• Feed marine wildlife.
• Remove shells or coral from protected areas.

2. Seychelles

A remote island country that gives you pristine wilderness, powder white sand beaches and special opportunities for snorkeling and adventure. With a few simple documents, UAE citizens can easily obtain a visa to visit the Seychelles.

Direct flights from Dubai to Mahé take approximately 4 hours 30 minutes. Direct flights operate with Emirates, while connecting options are available through regional carriers. Return economy fares generally start from AED 1,600–2,100.

Some of the top tourist attractions here include:

• Anse Source d’Argent, Beau Vallon Beach, Morne Seychellois National Park, Vallée de Mai, Curieuse Island, La Digue and Praslin Island.

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• Budget: Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel – from AED 650/night
• Mid-range: STORY Seychelles – from AED 1,350/night
• Luxury: Four Seasons Resort Seychelles – from AED 3,800/night

The best time is April–May and October–November when the weather is calm and perfect for beach activities.

Car rentals are available on Mahé and Praslin through Avis, Hertz, and local companies. Rates start from AED 180/day.

Moreover, you can enjoy island hopping, snorkelling, diving, hiking, kayaking, wildlife watching, beach relaxation, and sunset cruises here. Expect peaceful islands, clean beaches, luxury resorts, eco-tourism, and a relaxed pace of life.

Here’s how the currency exchange works:

• Currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR)
• 1 AED ≈ 3.80 SCR (exchange rates fluctuate)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 25°C – 31°C
• Summer: 24°C – 29°C
• Autumn: 25°C – 31°C
• Winter: 25°C – 31°C

Enjoy Creole cuisine, grilled seafood, octopus curry, coconut dishes, tropical fruits, French-inspired cuisine, and international restaurants here. When it comes to nightlife, it is relaxed, featuring beachfront bars, resort lounges, live music, and sunset dining rather than large nightclubs.

Dos & Don’ts

Do

• Protect marine life.
• Carry reef-safe sunscreen.
• Respect nature reserves.

Don’t

• Litter beaches.
• Touch or collect coral.
• Feed wildlife in protected parks.

3. Malaysia

From multicultural KL, Langkawi and Penang comes one of the biggest gems of South East Asia to experience a city break. Additionally, most countries such as Malaysia provide visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival facilities for UAE citizens for tourism-related purposes, which makes the UAE a great country to go for your next short getaway.

Direct flights from Dubai to Kuala Lumpur take approximately 7 hours. Direct flights are available with Emirates, Malaysia Airlines, and connecting flights via Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Singapore Airlines. Return economy fares start from AED 1,400–2,000.

Some of the top tourist attractions include:

• Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, Langkawi Sky Bridge, Penang, Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands and Taman Negara National Park

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• Budget: ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre – from AED 180/night
• Mid-range: Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur – from AED 420/night
• Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur – from AED 950/night

December to April is ideal for the west coast, while March to October is best for the east coast islands.

Car rentals are available through Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local companies. Prices start from AED 100/day. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Thinking of how to explore Malaysia? Visit the Petronas Towers, relax in Langkawi, enjoy Penang’s street food, explore rainforests, visit theme parks, shop in Kuala Lumpur, and experience river cruises in Melaka.

You can expect modern infrastructure, affordable shopping, efficient public transport, multicultural communities, and English spoken in most tourist areas.

Here’s how the currency exchange works:

• Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
• 1 AED ≈ 1.15 MYR (exchange rates may vary)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 24°C – 33°C
• Summer: 25°C – 34°C
• Autumn: 24°C – 32°C
• Winter: 23°C – 32°C

Try Nasi Lemak, Satay, Char Kway Teow, Laksa, Roti Canai, and Malaysian curries. Halal food is widely available alongside Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Korean, and Western cuisines.

Kuala Lumpur offers rooftop bars, night markets, live music venues, cafés, and entertainment districts such as Bukit Bintang and Changkat.

Dos & Don’ts

Do

• Respect local customs and religious sites.
• Use cash for small vendors.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques.

Don’t

• Smoke in prohibited public areas.
• Litter.
• Ignore local traffic rules.

4. Indonesia

Known as 13,000 islands, this archipelago is a popular destination for UAE residents, boasting excellent offers in the field of accommodation and visa-free entry for residents in addition to its rich cultural heritage. The best places to visit in Indonesia are Bali, Lombok and Java.

Direct flights from Dubai to Bali take approximately 9 hours, while Jakarta takes around 8 hours. Direct services are available with Emirates to Bali (seasonal) and Jakarta, with additional  connections via Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Garuda Indonesia. Return fares start from AED 1,800–2,500.

Some of the top tourist attractions here include:

• Bali, Ubud, Tanah Lot Temple, Borobudur Temple, Komodo National Park, Mount Bromo and Gili Islands

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• Budget: The Kana Kuta Bali – from AED 170/night
• Mid-range: Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak – from AED 450/night 
• Luxury: AYANA Resort Bali – from AED 1,400/night

Visit between April and October for dry weather and beach holidays.

Rental cars and private drivers are widely available. Self-driving is possible, though hiring a local driver is often recommended. Rates start from AED 120/day.

Some of the best things to do are surf in Bali, visit rice terraces, explore temples, hike Mount Bromo, snorkel in the Gili Islands, dive in Raja Ampat, and experience Balinese spa treatments.

Expect tropical weather, friendly locals, affordable travel, busy tourist areas in Bali, and rich cultural traditions.

Here’s how the currency exchange works:

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
• 1 AED ≈ 4,450 IDR (exchange rates may vary)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 24°C – 32°C
• Summer: 25°C – 33°C
• Autumn: 24°C – 32°C
• Winter: 24°C – 31°C

Popular dishes include Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng, Satay, Rendang, Gado-Gado, and fresh seafood. Halal and international restaurants are widely available.

Bali is famous for beach clubs, rooftop bars, live music venues, sunset lounges, and vibrant nightlife in Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta.

Dos & Don’ts

Do

• Respect temple etiquette.
• Wear appropriate clothing at religious sites.
• Bargain politely at local markets.

Don’t

• Touch sacred offerings.
• Litter beaches.
• Disturb wildlife.

5. Mauritius

It’s an incredible value – with world-class dining, luxurious accommodations, water sports, and adventures. This is an African paradise that offers what is expected and enjoyed by its visitors, such as lagoon waters, luxurious holiday resorts, waterfalls and breathtaking scenery. Mauritius is, moreover, an easy opportunity for registered citizens of the UAE and is a perfect place for a honeymoon or a family vacation.

Direct flights from Dubai to Mauritius take approximately 6 hours 30 minutes. Direct flights operate with Emirates and Air Mauritius. Return economy fares generally start from AED 2,000–2,800.

Some of the top tourist attractions here include:

• Le Morne Brabant, Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth, Black River Gorges National Park, Île aux Cerfs, Port Louis, Grand Baie and Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Meanwhile, some of the popular hotels you can find here are:

• Budget: Ocean V Hotel – from AED 420/night
• Mid-range: Long Beach Mauritius – from AED 1,000/night
• Luxury: LUX* Belle Mare – from AED 2,300/night

May to December offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and beach activities.

Car rentals are available through Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and local providers. Prices start from AED 130/day. Driving is on the left.

Some best things to do here are snorkelling, scuba diving, catamaran cruises, hiking, ziplining, dolphin watching, golf, and island excursions. Also, expect luxury resorts, multicultural cuisine, friendly hospitality, scenic coastal drives, and beautiful beaches here.

Here’s how the currency exchange works:

• Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
• 1 AED ≈ 12.5 MUR (exchange rates may vary)

Now, understand the weather pattern by every season:

• Spring: 20°C – 27°C
• Summer: 25°C – 33°C
• Autumn: 22°C – 30°C
• Winter: 18°C – 25°C

Enjoy Creole dishes, seafood, curries, Chinese cuisine, French pastries, tropical fruits, and international dining options here. 

Grand Baie is one of the most happening places that offers beach bars, casinos, nightclubs, live music, and waterfront restaurants.

Dos & Don’ts

Do

• Respect marine life.
• Carry reef-safe sunscreen.
• Book water activities in advance.

Don’t

• Damage coral reefs.
• Feed wild animals.
• Swim in restricted areas.

Popular Visa-on-Arrival Countries for UAE Residents

The most popular countries of foreigners from the UAE by visa-on-arrival category are:

• Thailand – The beautiful part of the world, Southeast Asia, known for its beaches, its nightlife, and its money-saving… There’s a lot to be learned in a relatively short period of time here. Eligible residents can enjoy a visa on arrival.
• Sri Lanka –This country in the Indian Ocean has all shapes of nature, wild animals, fantastic tea plantation views, etc., and is also a tourist favorite due to its excellent prices and the fact that it is an easy place to obtain a visa to.
• Egypt – You are invited to discover this North African country with its ancient Pyramids, the Nile River, and its exotic temples. For those who are entitled to obtain a UAE visa on arrival, this spectacular destination could be the perfect choice for your shorter holiday.
• Morocco – It’s an exotic learning place that’s open to visitors, and they will be able to enjoy the medinas, the mountain landscapes and the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Visa on arrival is available for eligible residents of the UAE who apply for one on arrival, as per their nationality.
• Lebanon – This Middle Eastern country boasts beautiful Mediterranean scenery, excellent party scenes and some of the longest walking tracks for nature enthusiasts. Home to a wealth of mysticism and wonders, a visa on arrival is available to eligible residents of the UAE, as determined by nationality.

Best Destinations for UAE Residents by Passport

Your passport nationality will be your first deciding factor in determining the travel destination you can make as a resident in the UAE. Be aware that you can have additional travel privileges with a valid visa, but you can’t use it to travel without restrictions to another country. Please be sure to verify the current requirements prior to booking your ticket.

UAE Residents with an Indian Passport

For those with an Indian passport, they can enjoy visa-free entry to many popular tourist destinations like the Maldives, Mauritius, Malaysia, Bhutan, Nepal, Indonesia and Fiji when travelling from the UAE. Alternatively, if you have an Indian passport and have submitted for a residence visa, you might have a smoother journey to and from Georgia and Azerbaijan.

UAE Residents with a Pakistani Passport

If you have a Pakistani passport and live in the UAE, you can visit multiple countries in the UAE with a visa on application or visa-free based on your country: Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Seychelles, etc. If you have a residence visa valid in the UAE, you will benefit from easy visa entry into some of these countries.

UAE Residents with a Filipino Passport

With Filipino citizenship, residents of the UAE can obtain a Visa of Convenience, which allows them to travel to neighbouring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Maldives and Hong Kong (Depending on nationality) easily. Some of these countries offer a convenient e-Visa or visa on arrival as an added benefit.

e-Visa Countries for UAE Residents

These are the top 10 most popular e-Visa countries for UAE citizens:

• Azerbaijan
• Cambodia
• Egypt
• India
• Kenya
• Tanzania
• Thailand
• Türkiye
• Uzbekistan
• Vietnam

Overall, an e-Visa is a great alternative to a traditional paper visa and is usually quite fast and convenient to get. Apply online for an e-Visa to your desired destination, print it out and present it upon arrival. 

The processing time of the e-Visa depends on the country you are planning to visit, so please apply for an e-Visa early, particularly during high seasons.

Essential Travel Checklist

• Make sure to pack your valid passport
• valid UAE residence visa
• return tickets
• hotel bookings/reservation
• travel insurance, and 
• proof of sufficient funds, if necessary, when traveling abroad. 

It’s good to have digital copies of possible travel documents for future reference, as well as having them in hard copy if necessary to streamline the immigration process.

For many, travelling from the UAE to various countries has been a much easier journey than ever before, with many countries offering visa-free, visa upon arrival and e-Visa packages for work permit holders from the UAE. 

Whether you want to visit some of the mountains for a hike in Georgia and Armenia or lie on the white sand beaches of the Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles and more, there are options for everyone in the UAE. Simply check the up-to-date entry criteria beforehand, and enjoy your holiday!

Looking for more UAE travel inspiration?

Planning a Maldives trip from the UAE?
Maldives Tourist Visa for UAE Residents – Complete Guide (2026)

Travelling to Armenia from the UAE?
Armenia Tourist Visa for UAE Residents: Complete 2026 Travel Guide

Thinking about a Mauritius holiday from the UAE?
Mauritius Tourist Visa for UAE Residents – Complete Guide (2026)

Need a complete Schengen visa guide for UAE residents?
Schengen Travel Visa for UAE Residents (2026)

Looking for Ramadan international travel ideas from the UAE?
flydubai Holidays: 6 Exciting Destinations for UAE Travellers this Ramadan 2026