United Arab Emirates Visa RequirementsFor Syria passport holders
Syrian citizens need a visa to visit the UAE. Tourist visas can be obtained through UAE airlines, hotels, or a local sponsor, with the process handled on the UAE side.
Syria passport holders require a visa to enter United Arab Emirates.
Obtain a UAE tourist visa through one of these channels: (1) Via airline: Emirates, flydubai, or Air Arabia can arrange tourist visas for Syrian citizens travelling on their flights. Request at time of booking. (2) Via hotel: A UAE hotel can sponsor a tourist visa; most major hotels offer this service. (3) Via a UAE resident sponsor: Any UAE resident can apply for a tourist visa on your behalf online at ica.gov.ae. The tourist visa fee varies by type (30-day or 90-day) but is typically USD 100-250. Processing takes 3-5 working days.
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 Syrian passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Passport-sized photo (white background)
Visa sponsorship from UAE airline, hotel, or resident sponsor
Return flight booking
Hotel reservation or host accommodation confirmation
Proof of financial means if requested by sponsor Recommended
Current Travel Situation
Syria to United Arab Emirates: What You Need to Know
The United Arab Emirates hosts an estimated 200,000+ Syrians, primarily in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, working in business, trade, hospitality, and professional services. The Syrian business community in the UAE is well-established, particularly in Dubai's Al Quoz and Deira areas. Tourist visas for Syrian passport holders are typically sponsored by UAE-based hotels, airlines (Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia), or local contacts (sponsors). The tourist visa allows stays of 30 days and may be extendable.
How to Get There
Damascus International Airport (DAM) has limited flights, but flydubai operates regular DAM-DXB service. From Lebanon: MEA (Middle East Airlines) and flydubai fly BEY-DXB. Syrian travellers based in Turkey use IstanbulโDubai (Emirates, Turkish Airlines, flydubai). Total journey times from Syria are approximately 2-4 hours; from Turkey approximately 4-5 hours.
Money & Banking
UAE uses the dirham (AED), pegged to the USD (1 USD = 3.67 AED). Syrian bank cards are not internationally accepted. Bring USD cash or use a Wise/Revolut card. The UAE is expensive: mid-range accommodation in Dubai starts at USD 80-100 per night; meals vary greatly from budget (AED 20-30 in local restaurants) to expensive in tourist areas. Dubai Mall and Deira Gold Souk are excellent for shopping.
Practical Tips
Dubai has a very large and active Syrian community; halal food is everywhere, Arabic is widely spoken in commercial areas, and the city feels familiar to Arab visitors. The Burj Khalifa (advance booking required for observation deck), Dubai Frame, Desert Safari, and Abra boat rides across the Creek are popular. The Dubai Metro is efficient and affordable. Note that public behavior standards (alcohol, dress) are more conservative than Europe; be aware of local customs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can Syrians get a UAE tourist visa?
UAE tourist visas for Syrians are obtained through a UAE-based sponsor: (1) booking a flight with Emirates, flydubai, or Air Arabia (who can arrange the visa); (2) booking a hotel that provides visa sponsorship; or (3) having a UAE resident sponsor you via ica.gov.ae. Individual online applications without a sponsor are not available.
Is there a large Syrian community in the UAE?
Yes. An estimated 200,000+ Syrians live in the UAE, primarily in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Syrian business community is well-established, particularly in trade and services. Arabic is widely spoken and Syrian restaurants and food are easily found throughout Dubai.
Does flydubai fly direct from Syria to Dubai?
flydubai operates flights between Damascus (DAM) and Dubai (DXB). This is one of the few direct connections from Syria to the Gulf. Check availability at flydubai.com as schedules can change.