Visas & entry
Dubai & the UAE: visa and medication rules
Free visa on arrival, valid for 90 days in any 180. The thing to plan for is medication: some UK prescription and over-the-counter medicines are controlled in the UAE and need Ministry of Health approval before you travel.
- No visa needed
- Apply online before you go
- Visa on arrival
- Visa in advance
Visa-wise, Dubai couldn't be easier. Medication is where people get caught: travellers have been detained over medicines that are routine in the UK. Approval is online and usually takes around 5 working days.
What you need
- Tourist visitNo visa needed
Free visa on arrival, 90 days in 180. Passport valid for 6 months.
- Controlled medicationVisa on arrival
Apply online to the UAE Ministry of Health before travel. Up to 3 months' supply.
- Changing planes onlyNo visa needed
No approval needed if you don't pass through immigration.
What happens at the airport
- Your visit visa is stamped on arrival. No form needed in advance.
- Passport validity: at least 6 months from arrival.
- Keep your return ticket handy, as immigration can ask to see it.
- Overstaying brings daily fines.
Medicine approval in steps
Check the UAE Ministry of Health's controlled medicines list. If your medicine is on it, apply online with your prescription and a doctor's letter. Carry the approval with the medicine in its original packaging. Bring no more than you need for your stay.
Before you go
- Carry medicines in their original packaging with a prescription.
- Ambulance: 998.
Official advice: FCDO entry requirements for Dubai & the UAE
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