Do Australians need a visa for United Arab Emirates?

Passport, visa, arrival cards and customs rules for Australian passport holders.

No — Australian passport holders can enter United Arab Emirates without a visa for up to 30 days.

Australian passport holders receive a free 30-day visa on arrival in the UAE. There's no application, no fee and no arrival card.

Passport validity

At least 6 months from your date of arrival

Length of stay

30 days, extendable once for 30 days

Onward ticket

Required — airlines check this at Australian check-in.

Blank passport pages

1

What it costs

FeeAmountWho pays
Visa on arrivalFreeAustralian passport holders, 30 days
30-day extensionAbout AED 600 (AUD $250)Optional, applied for in-country

How to get sorted, step by step

  1. Check your passport has 6 months validity from arrival.
  2. Check every medication you're carrying against the UAE's controlled substances list before you pack.
  3. If you're driving, get a 1949 Geneva Convention IDP in Australia.
  4. Book an eSIM before you fly — UAE roaming is among the most expensive in the world.

What catches Australians out

Medications containing codeine, tramadol, some ADHD drugs and CBD are controlled substances. Carrying them without prior approval and a doctor's letter can result in arrest.

WhatsApp and FaceTime voice and video calls are blocked on UAE networks. Data messaging works.

Public displays of affection, swearing and rude gestures are offences.

Alcohol is legal in licensed venues but being drunk in public is not.

Cannabis, including residue or CBD products legal in Australia, carries severe penalties.

Health cover for Australians in United Arab Emirates

No reciprocal agreement. UAE hospitals are world-class and priced accordingly — payment or an insurer guarantee is required upfront.

Vaccinations: No vaccinations required.

Medications: This is the critical item for the UAE. Codeine, tramadol, some sleeping tablets, ADHD medications and anything containing CBD are controlled. Carry a doctor's letter and original packaging, and check the Ministry of Health list before you fly.

Compare travel insurance for United Arab Emirates

More United Arab Emirates essentials

Connectivity Instant data, no physical SIM required. Travel insurance Medical, cancellation and luggage cover from Australian insurers. Money & payments Cards, cash and FX fees for Australian travellers. Airport transfer Trains, buses, private transfers and taxis compared. Driving International Driving Permit rules and car hire for Australians. Travel essentials Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics. Things to do Attractions, tours and passes worth booking ahead. Trip checklist Tick off every essential before you fly.

United Arab Emirates entry requirements FAQs

Do Australians need a visa for Dubai?

No. Australian passport holders get a free 30-day visa on arrival in the UAE, extendable once. Your passport needs six months validity from arrival.

Save your trip

Create a free account to save your checklist, keep your comparisons and get told when entry rules change for your destination.

Continue with Google Continue with Apple
or

By continuing you agree to our terms and privacy policy.