Malta Visa RequirementsFor United Arab Emirates passport holders
Malta is part of the Schengen Area and covered by the EU-UAE visa waiver. Emirati nationals can visit Valletta, Gozo, and the Blue Lagoon for up to 90 days.
Great news! United Arab Emirates passport holders can enter Malta 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 Malta International Airport (MLA).
Malta 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 Malta/Schengen.
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel or apartment booking in Malta, Gozo, or Comino.
Current Travel Situation
United Arab Emirates to Malta: What You Need to Know
Malta punches above its weight for UAE travellers: Valletta (Europe's smallest capital and a UNESCO site), the prehistoric Ggantija temples, and the crystal-clear waters of Comino's Blue Lagoon are extraordinary. Air Malta and Emirates connect Dubai to Malta (MLA) via connections. Malta is also popular among UAE nationals for its English-language courses, gaming regulation, and EU residency programmes.
How to Get There
Sicily (Italy) is 90 minutes by ferry from Malta and can be combined on the same Schengen trip.
Money & Banking
Malta uses the euro (EUR). Cards accepted widely. Malta is mid-range in cost; summer hotel prices are high.
Practical Tips
The Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, Cospicua) across the Grand Harbour from Valletta offer a less touristy perspective. Gozo is a 30-minute ferry from Cirkewwa and worth an overnight stay. Book the Blue Lagoon boat trip from Valletta in advance for summer visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UAE passport holders need a visa for Malta?
No. Malta 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 Malta for UAE visitors?
Valletta (Europe's smallest capital, UNESCO, St. John's Co-Cathedral with Caravaggio painting), the Three Cities, Comino's Blue Lagoon (crystal turquoise water), Mdina (ancient walled capital, "Silent City"), Ggantija temples (among the world's oldest free-standing structures), and the Hypogeum (prehistoric underground temple) are highlights.
Is Malta suitable for UAE families?
Yes. Malta is very family-friendly: warm Mediterranean sea ideal for children, safe environment, English-speaking, and compact enough to see everything in one trip. Popeye Village (original film set) is a favourite for children.
Is Malta relevant for UAE nationals seeking EU residency?
Yes. Malta Residency and Visas Agency (MRVA) offers the Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) and citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services for UAE nationals with qualifying investments in Malta.
What currency is used in Malta?
Malta uses the euro (EUR). Cards accepted widely. Malta is mid-range in cost; summer hotel prices rise significantly.
Are there flights from UAE to Malta?
Air Malta connects Malta (MLA) to Dubai and Abu Dhabi via connections. Ryanair and Wizz Air fly from European hubs. Typical journey time 6-8 hours from UAE.