If you’re an expatriate living in Saudi Arabia planning to visit the United Arab Emirates, you’ll need to obtain a UAE eVisa before arrival. This comprehensive guide covers everything Saudi residents and GCC expatriates need to know about applying for a UAE entry permit online in 2026.
Who Needs a UAE eVisa?
All GCC residents, including Saudi iqama holders, must apply for an entry permit before traveling to the UAE. This requirement applies to:
- GCC Residents: Foreigners residing in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, or Qatar with valid residence permits
- Companions of GCC Citizens: Family members or companions traveling with GCC nationals
The visa must be approved before departure, and travelers cannot enter the UAE without prior authorization.
Related: How to Apply for a Saudi eVisa for GCC Residents
Can Saudi Iqama Holders Travel to Dubai?
Yes, Saudi iqama holders can travel to Dubai and other emirates in the UAE. However, you must obtain an approved entry permit before your journey. The good news is that the UAE visa for Saudi residents can be applied for entirely online through official government portals.
Can Saudi Visit Visa Holders Travel to Dubai?
No, this service is specifically for GCC residents with valid residence permits (iqama). Visit visa holders must apply through different channels and are not eligible for the online entry permit service for GCC residents.
UAE Visa Requirements for Saudi Residents
To be eligible for a UAE eVisa as a Saudi resident, you must meet the following conditions:
Passport Requirements
- Valid passport or travel document
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date in UAE
- Passport-size photo with white background
Residency Requirements
- Valid Saudi iqama (residence permit) or GCC residence permit
- Residency must be valid for at least 1 year from the arrival date
- Electronic extract or copy showing profession and validity of residence
- Profession must be on the approved list (subject to UAE immigration evaluation)
Check: Saudi Iqama Expiry Date Online
Entry Restrictions
- No restrictions preventing entry to UAE
- Residence permit must not be expired or cancelled upon arrival
- If profession has changed after visa issuance, entry may be denied
UAE eVisa for GCC Residents: Validity and Duration
For GCC Residents (Including Saudi Iqama Holders)
- Validity: 30 days from the date of issue
- Stay Duration: 30 days from the date of entry
- Extension: Can be extended once for an additional 30 days
For Companions of GCC Citizens
- Validity: 60 days from the date of issue
- Stay Duration: 60 days from the date of entry
- Extension: Can be extended once for an additional 60 days
- Important: The GCC citizen sponsor must travel together with their companion, or the application will be rejected
UAE eVisa for GCC Residents Fees
The official fee structure for UAE entry permit for Saudi residents is:
- Base Fee: AED 250
- VAT: 5% (AED 12.50)
- Total: AED 262.50 (approximately $71 USD or SAR 268)
Payment must be made online during the application process through the official portal.
How to Apply for UAE Visa from Saudi Arabia
You can apply through two official UAE government portals:
- GDRFA Dubai Smart Portal – https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP Portal)
How to Apply for UAE eVisa for GCC Residents Online
We’ll walk you through the application process using the GDRFA Dubai portal, which is the most commonly used platform.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Access the Portal
- Visit https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/
- The service is available 24/7
Step 2: Register as a New User
- Create an account with your email address
- Complete the registration process
- Verify your email if required
Step 3: Select the Service
- Navigate to: Services → Entry and Exit → Issuing Visa via (Land port, Sea port, Air port)
- Choose: “Entry permit for residents in the GCC countries”
Step 4: Fill in Application Form
- Enter personal information accurately
- Upload required documents:
- Copy of valid passport
- Copy of Saudi iqama or GCC residence permit
- Electronic extract showing profession and residence validity
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Double-check all information for accuracy
Step 5: Pay the Fees
- Pay AED 250 plus 5% VAT (total AED 262.50)
- Payment can be made via credit/debit card
Step 6: Submit Application
- Review your application before submission
- Submit and note your application reference number
Step 7: Receive Your Visa
- Processing time: Usually within 48 hours
- The approved eVisa will be sent to your registered email address
- Print the visa and carry it with you when traveling
How to Get UAE Visa for Saudi Iqama Holders: Important Tips
Before Applying
- Ensure your Saudi iqama is valid for at least 1 year from your planned arrival date
- Check that your passport has at least 6 months validity
- Verify your profession is on the approved list
- Have clear, high-quality scans of all required documents ready
During Application
- Use accurate information matching your official documents
- Ensure the photo has a white background and meets passport photo standards
- Keep your application reference number for tracking
Before Travel
- Print your approved eVisa
- Verify your iqama status has not changed
- Ensure your profession remains the same as when visa was issued
- Confirm your residence permit is still valid and not cancelled
Common Questions About UAE Visa for KSA Residents
How long does processing take?
The expected completion time is 48 hours, though many applications are approved faster.
Can I apply at the airport?
No, GCC residents must apply online and obtain approval before travel. Visa on arrival is not available for this category.
What if my application is rejected?
Check that you meet all requirements, particularly the profession list and residency validity. You can reapply after addressing any issues.
Can I extend my stay?
Yes, the 30-day stay can be extended once for an additional 30 days from within the UAE.
What if my iqama expires while in UAE?
You must ensure your iqama remains valid throughout your stay. If it expires or is cancelled, you may face entry or exit difficulties.
Important Reminders
Before Departure
✓ Print your approved eVisa
✓ Carry your valid passport (6+ months validity)
✓ Ensure Saudi iqama is valid (1+ year remaining)
✓ Verify no changes to profession since visa approval
✓ Confirm residence permit is active and not cancelled
Upon Arrival
- Present your printed eVisa to immigration
- Have your passport and iqama ready for inspection
- Be prepared to show proof of accommodation if requested
- Immigration may verify your profession and iqama status
Conclusion
Obtaining a UAE eVisa for Saudi residents and other GCC expatriates is a straightforward online process that can be completed in just a few minutes. By applying through the official GDRFA Dubai portal or ICP portal, Saudi iqama holders can secure their entry permit within 48 hours.
The key to a successful application is ensuring all requirements are met: valid passport (6+ months), valid iqama (1+ year), approved profession, and no entry restrictions. The AED 262.50 fee is reasonable for the convenience of 30-day access to the UAE with the option to extend.
Whether you’re planning a weekend in Dubai, a business trip to Abu Dhabi, or exploring the emirates, start your UAE visa application at least one week before your planned travel date to allow time for processing and any potential issues.
Last Updated: January 2026
Source: GDRFA Dubai & UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security