New Zealand Visa RequirementsFor United Arab Emirates passport holders
New Zealand requires an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) for Emirati passport holders. The NZeTA is applied online via the official app or website, costs NZD 17, and is linked electronically to the passport.
United Arab Emirates passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to New Zealand.
Apply for the NZeTA at the New Zealand NZeTA app (App Store/Google Play) or at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz. Upload a passport photo and answer eligibility questions. Pay the NZD 17 fee. An International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 100 also applies (paid during the NZeTA application). Most applications are approved within 72 hours; some take longer.
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
For Your Visa Application
New Zealand NZeTA Application
Apply via NZeTA app or nzeta.immigration.govt.nz before travel. Cost: NZD 17 plus NZD 100 IVL levy.
Passport Photo (digital)
Upload a recent photo via the NZeTA app as part of the application.
Credit Card for NZeTA and IVL Fees
International card to pay NZD 17 (NZeTA) plus NZD 100 (IVL levy) during the application.
Required at Entry
UAE Passport (original)
Present at New Zealand border. The NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport.
Return or Onward Ticket
Confirmed return or onward flight from New Zealand.
Biosecurity Declaration
Declare all food, plant material, animal products, and outdoor equipment on the NZ Traveller Declaration form (completed via the NZ Traveller Declaration app before arrival). New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
NZD 1,000 per month of stay, or credit card with sufficient limit.
Current Travel Situation
United Arab Emirates to New Zealand: What You Need to Know
New Zealand is gaining popularity among UAE travellers for its spectacular natural landscapes: fiords, volcanoes, glaciers, and adventure sports in Queenstown. Air New Zealand and Emirates both offer connections from Dubai to Auckland (AKL). The NZeTA was introduced in 2019 as a pre-screening measure for otherwise visa-exempt travellers, placing UAE nationals in the same streamlined category as many developed nation passport holders.
How to Get There
Combine New Zealand with Australia (Tourist Visa required, applied separately) for a classic Antipodean trip. Auckland to Sydney flights with Qantas and Air New Zealand are frequent.
Money & Banking
New Zealand uses the New Zealand dollar (NZD). Contactless payments are universal. ATMs widely available. New Zealand is moderately expensive; budget NZD 200-350 per day for mid-range travel.
Practical Tips
Apply for the NZeTA at least 72 hours before your flight. The NZeTA is linked to your passport; no printout required but keep the approval email. New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules; declare all food, plant material, and outdoor equipment. New Zealand uses a chip-and-pin card system; UAE cards work seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UAE passport holders need a visa for New Zealand?
UAE nationals need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). It costs NZD 17 (about $10-12 USD) plus NZD 100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, applied online before travel.
How do I apply for the New Zealand NZeTA?
Apply via the official NZeTA app (on App Store or Google Play) or at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz. Upload a passport photo, answer eligibility questions, and pay the fees. Most applications are approved within 72 hours.
How long can UAE nationals stay in New Zealand?
Up to 90 days per visit. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years or until passport expiry (whichever is sooner) and allows multiple visits within that period.
What are the best destinations in New Zealand for UAE travellers?
Queenstown (adventure sports: bungee jumping, skydiving, skiing), Milford Sound (fiord, one of the world's most scenic boat trips), Rotorua (Maori culture and geothermal activity), the Bay of Islands, and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are top highlights.
Are there direct flights from UAE to New Zealand?
No direct non-stop flights currently operate. Emirates connects Dubai to Auckland (AKL) via Sydney or Melbourne. Air New Zealand connects via Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Typical journey time is 17-22 hours with connections.
What is the best time to visit New Zealand from the UAE?
New Zealand's summer (December-February) is the most popular for outdoor activities and festivals. Skiing is available June-September in Queenstown. Spring (October-November) and autumn (March-May) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Can I combine New Zealand with Australia on one trip?
Yes. An Australia Tourist Visa (subclass 600) and a New Zealand NZeTA are separate applications. Qantas, Air New Zealand, and Jetstar offer frequent trans-Tasman flights between Sydney/Melbourne and Auckland.