Belgium Visa RequirementsFor United Arab Emirates passport holders
Belgium is part of the Schengen Area and covered by the 2022 EU-UAE visa waiver. Emirati nationals can visit Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp for up to 90 days without a visa.
Great news! United Arab Emirates passport holders can enter Belgium without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa required. Valid UAE passport for Schengen entry. Brussels Airport immigration is typically fast for UAE passport holders.
Belgium is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
UAE Passport
Valid UAE passport with at least 3 months validity beyond intended departure from the Schengen Area.
Return or Onward Ticket
Confirmed return or onward ticket from Schengen.
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel booking confirmation or host invitation.
Current Travel Situation
United Arab Emirates to Belgium: What You Need to Know
Belgium may be small but it offers an exceptional concentration of attractions: Brussels (EU headquarters, Grand Place, Atomium), the medieval city of Bruges, and Antwerp's diamond district and fashion scene. Brussels Airport (BRU) is served by Emirates via partner airlines; Thalys high-speed trains connect Brussels to Paris in 80 minutes. Belgium is also home to the EU institutions, making it relevant for UAE officials and diplomats.
How to Get There
Belgium pairs naturally with the Netherlands and Luxembourg on a Benelux tour, all within the 90-day Schengen window.
Money & Banking
Belgium uses the euro (EUR). Card payments are standard. Brussels is mid-range in cost; Bruges restaurants and hotels can be pricier.
Practical Tips
Belgian waffles, chocolates, and triples (beers) are not to be missed. Bruges is a day trip from Brussels by train (1 hour). The Eurostar from Brussels to London is an alternative if continuing to the UK after Belgium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UAE passport holders need a visa for Belgium?
No. Belgium is in the Schengen Area and covered by the EU-UAE visa waiver. Emirati nationals can visit for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
What are the top attractions in Belgium for UAE visitors?
Brussels (Grand Place, Atomium, Manneken Pis, EU Quarter), Bruges (medieval canal city, beer and chocolate culture), Ghent (Gravensteen Castle, vibrant arts scene), and Antwerp (diamond district, fashion, Rubens House) are all excellent.
Is Belgium famous for chocolate and waffles?
Yes. Belgian chocolate (Neuhaus, Leonidas, Godiva) and waffles (Liege-style with pearl sugar, Brussels-style plain) are world-renowned. Visit Neuhaus or Mary Chocolatier in Brussels for premium chocolate; Liege waffle stands are found throughout the country.
How do I travel between Belgian cities?
Belgian intercity trains (SNCB/NMBS) are fast, frequent, and inexpensive. Brussels to Bruges is 1 hour by train; Brussels to Ghent is 30 minutes; Brussels to Antwerp is 40 minutes. A rail pass or individual tickets purchased at the station are sufficient.
What currency is used in Belgium?
Belgium uses the euro (EUR). Cards accepted everywhere. Belgium is mid-range in cost; Bruges can be pricier in tourist season.
Can I day trip to Paris from Brussels?
Yes. Thalys high-speed train connects Brussels Midi to Paris Gare du Nord in 80 minutes. This is a popular add-on for UAE travellers doing Belgium and France in one trip.