United Arab Emirates Visa RequirementsFor Sri Lanka passport holders
Sri Lankan passport holders require a visa to visit the United Arab Emirates. The tourist visa costs approximately USD 100 and is valid for 30 days. It can be applied for online or through airlines like Emirates and Air Arabia.
Sri Lanka passport holders require a visa to enter United Arab Emirates.
Apply online through the UAE official portal (icp.gov.ae) or through Emirates airline if flying Emirates. You will need a valid passport (6 months validity), digital photo, return flight booking, and accommodation details. The visa is typically processed within 24 to 72 hours. Some approved airlines can also apply for a transit or visit visa on behalf of passengers.
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
Sri Lanka to United Arab Emirates: What You Need to Know
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is one of the most important destinations for Sri Lankan citizens. The UAE hosts one of the largest Sri Lankan migrant worker communities globally, primarily in construction, hospitality, and domestic service sectors. Dubai is also a major transit hub for Sri Lankans traveling onward to Europe, North America, and Australia. Tourism from Sri Lanka to the UAE for shopping and leisure is also significant.
Practical Tips
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a major hub with direct flights from Colombo operated by Emirates, SriLankan Airlines, flydubai, and Air Arabia. Flight time is approximately 4 hours. The UAE dirham (AED) is the currency. Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Abu Dhabi Louvre, and the desert safari experiences are popular with Sri Lankan tourists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Sri Lankan citizens need a visa for the UAE?
Yes. Sri Lankan passport holders require a visa to enter the United Arab Emirates. The tourist visa costs approximately USD 100 and is valid for 30 days. It can be applied for online through the UAE ICP portal (icp.gov.ae) or through airlines such as Emirates or flydubai if flying with them.
What is the UAE known for among Sri Lankan visitors and workers?
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has one of the world largest Sri Lankan migrant worker communities, with hundreds of thousands employed in construction, hospitality, and domestic services. Dubai is also a major transit hub for Sri Lankans traveling globally. Tourism from Sri Lanka to Dubai for shopping, entertainment, and the Burj Khalifa experience has grown significantly.
How quickly can Sri Lankans get a UAE tourist visa?
The online UAE tourist visa is typically processed within 24 to 72 hours. Apply through the official ICP portal or through the airline website if flying Emirates or flydubai. The visa fee is approximately USD 100 for a 30-day single-entry visa. A 60-day visa is also available at higher cost.
Are there direct flights from Sri Lanka to the UAE?
Yes. Multiple airlines operate direct flights between Colombo (CMB) and Dubai (DXB) and Abu Dhabi (AUH). Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia, Etihad, and SriLankan Airlines all serve this route. Flight time is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.