United Arab Emirates Visa RequirementsFor Cape Verde passport holders
Cape Verdean passport holders require a visa to visit the UAE, applied for online through the ICA system or sponsored by an Emirati host. The UAE serves as a major transit hub for Cape Verdean travelers heading to Asia, Australia, or other destinations.
Cape Verde passport holders require a visa to enter United Arab Emirates.
Apply online through the UAE ICA portal at icp.gov.ae or through the website of Emirates, Etihad, or another UAE-based airline when booking flights. Alternatively, use a UAE-registered travel agent to sponsor the visa. Required documents: passport scan, passport photo, and travel itinerary. Fee: approximately USD 100. Processing: 3 to 5 business days. There is no UAE embassy in Cape Verde; the online process is the primary route.
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
Cape Verde to United Arab Emirates: What You Need to Know
The United Arab Emirates requires Cape Verdean citizens to obtain a visa before entry. The UAE does not maintain an embassy in Cape Verde, but offers an online visa application system through the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and through UAE-based travel agents or sponsors.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are popular travel destinations in their own right, attracting Cape Verdean visitors for tourism, shopping, and business. Additionally, the UAE's major airports, particularly Dubai International Airport, are among the world's most transited hubs, meaning many Cape Verdean travelers pass through the UAE en route to Asia, Australia, or other African countries.
The tourist visa allows stays of up to 30 days and the application process is straightforward online.
Practical Tips
If flying with Emirates or Etihad, you can often apply for a UAE tourist visa directly through the airline website, which simplifies the process. The 30-day visa can typically be extended for an additional 30 days online through the ICA portal while you are in the UAE. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are relatively expensive destinations; plan your budget accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cape Verdean citizens need a visa for the UAE?
Yes. Cape Verdean passport holders must obtain a tourist visa before traveling to the UAE. Apply online through the UAE ICA portal at icp.gov.ae or through a UAE-based airline such as Emirates or Etihad.
How do Cape Verdean citizens apply for a UAE visa?
Apply online at the UAE ICA portal (icp.gov.ae), through the Emirates or Etihad airline website when booking flights, or through a UAE-registered travel agent. There is no UAE embassy in Cape Verde; the online process is the primary route.
How much does a UAE tourist visa cost for Cape Verdean citizens?
The UAE tourist visa costs approximately USD 100. Fees may vary slightly depending on the visa duration and the channel used to apply.
Can I transit through Dubai airport without a UAE visa?
If you remain airside (in the transit zone) at Dubai International Airport, you may not need a visa. However, if you plan to leave the airport and enter the UAE, a tourist visa is required. Check with your airline for transit-specific requirements.