Latvia Visa RequirementsFor United Arab Emirates passport holders
Latvia is part of the Schengen Area and covered by the EU-UAE visa waiver. Emirati nationals can visit Riga, Jurmala, and the Latvian countryside for up to 90 days.
Great news! United Arab Emirates passport holders can enter Latvia without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa required. UAE passport sufficient for Schengen entry at Riga International Airport (RIX).
Latvia 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 in Riga or Latvia.
Current Travel Situation
United Arab Emirates to Latvia: What You Need to Know
Riga is the largest city in the Baltic States and a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Art Nouveau architecture. Latvia's Baltic coast (Jurmala) is popular in summer. AirBaltic connects Dubai to Riga (RIX) via codeshares. Latvia's lower cost of living compared to Western Europe makes it attractive for budget-conscious UAE travellers.
How to Get There
Tallinn (Estonia) and Vilnius (Lithuania) complete the Baltics circuit; all are Schengen. Bus and train connections between Baltic capitals are inexpensive.
Money & Banking
Latvia uses the euro (EUR). Latvia is affordable compared to Western Europe. Cards widely accepted.
Practical Tips
Riga's Art Nouveau district contains the highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in the world. The Central Market (in repurposed zeppelin hangars) is extraordinary. Day trips to Sigulda (Gauja National Park) are recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UAE passport holders need a visa for Latvia?
No. Latvia 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 Latvia for UAE visitors?
Riga (Art Nouveau district, Central Market in Zeppelin hangars, Old Town UNESCO site, Freedom Monument), Jurmala beach resort (25 km from Riga), Gauja National Park (Sigulda, medieval castles), and Cape Kolka (scenic coastal point) are highlights.
What is Riga known for among European cities?
Riga has the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture of any city in the world (around 800 buildings). The Alberta Street and Elizabetes Street areas are outstanding. Riga's central market is housed in five former Zeppelin hangars and is the largest market in the EU.
What currency is used in Latvia?
Latvia uses the euro (EUR). Cards accepted widely. Latvia is affordable compared to Western Europe.
How do I travel between Baltic capitals?
Lux Express and RegioJet operate comfortable direct bus services between Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius. Tallinn-Riga is about 4 hours; Riga-Vilnius is about 4 hours. Train connections are slower. Rail Baltica (high-speed rail) is under construction and will link all three capitals.
Are there flights from UAE to Latvia?
AirBaltic connects Riga (RIX) to Dubai via connections. Typical journey time 6-8 hours. Alternatively, fly to Helsinki and take the ferry to Tallinn, then bus to Riga.