United Arab Emirates Visa RequirementsFor Costa Rica passport holders
Costa Ricans enjoy visa-free access to the UAE for up to 30 days. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are iconic destinations offering ultra-modern architecture, desert experiences, and world-class shopping and dining.
Great news! Costa Rica passport holders can enter United Arab Emirates without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 30 days.
No advance visa application is required. Costa Rican passport holders receive a free 30-day visa stamp on arrival at UAE airports including Dubai International (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), and others. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
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
Required Documents
Valid Passport
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.
Valid passport
Passport with at least 6 months validity from entry date
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from UAE within 30 days.
Return or onward ticket
Proof of return or onward travel from the UAE
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel booking or host invitation.
Accommodation details Recommended
Hotel reservation or address of where you will stay in the UAE
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Bank statements or credit cards showing financial means.
Sufficient funds Recommended
Evidence of financial means for your stay
Current Travel Situation
Costa Rica to United Arab Emirates: What You Need to Know
The United Arab Emirates grants visa-free access to Costa Rican passport holders for stays of up to 30 days. This is granted automatically on arrival at UAE airports.
How to Get There
Abu Dhabi (capital, about 90 minutes from Dubai) is worth a day trip for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi. Oman is accessible by road from Dubai (about 4 hours to Muscat). Qatar has separate entry requirements.
Money & Banking
Costa Rica uses the Colon (CRC). The UAE uses the UAE Dirham (AED), pegged to the USD. ATMs are widely available. Credit cards accepted everywhere. Dubai is expensive but comparable to major global cities.
Practical Tips
Dubai is a major international aviation hub with direct connections to all continents - many travelers use it as a transit or stopover destination. Alcohol is available in licensed hotels and restaurants but public intoxication is illegal. Dress codes are more conservative than Western countries - cover shoulders and knees in malls, markets, and public areas. Ramadan significantly changes operating hours and public eating/drinking rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Costa Ricans visit the UAE without a visa?
Yes. Costa Rican passport holders receive a free 30-day visa on arrival at UAE airports. No advance application is required.
Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa for the UAE?
No. Costa Rican passport holders receive a complimentary 90-day visit visa on arrival at any UAE international airport. No advance application is needed.
How long can Costa Ricans stay in the UAE visa-free?
Up to 30 days per visit. The stay can sometimes be extended once for an additional 30 days from within the UAE.
How long can Costa Rican citizens stay in the UAE?
Costa Rican visitors receive a 90-day visit visa on arrival in the UAE, which can potentially be extended for an additional 90 days.
What are the main tourist destinations in the UAE?
Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, desert safaris), Abu Dhabi (Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Formula 1 track), Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.
What documents do Costa Rican travelers need to enter the UAE?
You need a valid passport with at least six months validity, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds for your stay. Hotel reservations may also be requested.
What are the dress code rules in the UAE?
Dress modestly in public spaces, malls, and markets - cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is appropriate at pools and beaches. More revealing clothing is acceptable in licensed hotels and clubs.
Are there any restrictions on Costa Rican travelers entering the UAE?
Standard UAE entry rules apply: ensure you have no prohibited items, dress appropriately, and respect local laws and customs. The UAE has strict regulations on alcohol, public displays of affection, and certain medications.
Is alcohol available in the UAE?
Alcohol is available in licensed hotel bars and restaurants. Public intoxication is illegal and carries serious penalties. Non-Muslim visitors can purchase alcohol from licensed stores.
Can Costa Rican citizens visit Dubai and Abu Dhabi both on one visit?
Yes. The UAE is a single destination with multiple emirates. Your visa on arrival is valid throughout the UAE including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.
What currency does the UAE use?
The UAE uses the Dirham (AED), which is pegged to the USD. ATMs are widely available. Credit cards accepted universally. USD is also accepted in many establishments.
Can Costa Rican citizens extend their UAE visit visa?
Yes. The initial 90-day visit visa can be extended for an additional 90 days through the UAE General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or through ICP.
Is Dubai a good transit destination for long layovers?
Yes. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world's busiest and most well-equipped. Long layovers can include a city visit as Costa Ricans receive the visa-free stamp on arrival.