United Arab Emirates Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
Australian passport holders receive a free 30-day visa on arrival in the United Arab Emirates, with the option to extend for an additional 30 days in-country.
Great news! Australia passport holders can enter United Arab Emirates without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 30 days.
Australians receive a free 30-day visa on arrival at any UAE port of entry, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah airports. No advance application is required. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure. A single 30-day extension can be obtained through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for a fee of approximately AED 600. Longer-stay visas (tourist visas up to 60 or 90 days) can also be applied for in advance online if needed.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to United Arab Emirates: What You Need to Know
The UAE is a modern, cosmopolitan destination with world-class infrastructure, and is very popular with Australian tourists and business travellers. The country is generally safe with a low crime rate. Visitors should be aware that UAE law differs significantly from Australian law: public displays of affection, criticism of the government, same-sex relationships, and possession of certain medications are all regulated more strictly. DFAT advises exercising a high degree of caution due to regional tensions.
Practical Tips
Research UAE laws before travelling: what is legal in Australia may not be legal in the UAE. This includes carrying certain prescription medications (check with the UAE Ministry of Health), public behaviour standards, and online speech about the government or royal family. Alcohol is available in licensed venues but drinking in public or being drunk in public is illegal. Dress conservatively outside of hotels and beach resorts, particularly in malls and religious sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa for the UAE?
No. Australian passport holders receive a free 30-day visa on arrival at all UAE airports and land ports. No advance application or fee is required. A 30-day extension is available in-country through the GDRFA.
Can Australians bring prescription medication into the UAE?
Some medications that are legal in Australia are controlled or prohibited in the UAE. Always check the UAE Ministry of Health website before travelling and carry a doctor's letter for any prescription medication. Bringing prohibited substances can result in arrest and imprisonment.
What laws should Australians be aware of in the UAE?
Key differences include: same-sex relationships are illegal; public displays of affection can result in fines or detention; posting negative comments about the UAE government or individuals online is a criminal offence; drinking alcohol in public or being intoxicated in public is illegal; and possession of even small amounts of certain drugs carries severe penalties including imprisonment.
Is it easy to get around the UAE?
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have modern metro and bus systems, and ride-sharing apps (Uber and Careem) operate widely. Taxis are plentiful and metered. Renting a car is easy and roads are excellent, though traffic in Dubai can be heavy during peak hours.