The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi has reminded Filipino travelers that the newly introduced visa-on-arrival facility for Philippine passport holders is granted solely at the discretion of UAE authorities, urging the public to verify the latest conditions with the Emirates’ immigration regulator before flying.
In an advisory posted Monday, June 30, the Embassy said travelers should check directly with the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) for the current requirements governing the facility “for appropriate guidance and assistance.”
The reminder follows the rollout of the visa-on-arrival scheme, which took effect June 25. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, which first announced the arrangement on June 24, Filipino citizens traveling on Philippine passports may qualify if they hold a valid visa, residence permit, or Green Card issued by the United States, European Union member states, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Canada, or New Zealand.
The DFA said the UAE extended the privilege to Filipino citizens “in view of the excellent bilateral relations between the Philippines and the UAE.” The Philippine News Agency reported that the announcement came after Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro met with UAE Ambassador to the Philippines Mohamed Obaid Salem Alqataam Alzaabi to discuss deepening ties between the two countries.
Eligible travelers may choose between a 14-day visa costing AED 100, which can be extended once for a further 14 days at AED 250, or a non-extendable 60-day visa for AED 250. As reported by Gulf News and other outlets, passengers must present their Philippine passport together with the qualifying foreign document at UAE ports of entry. Wego noted that only EU member states are covered under the scheme, and that a UK visa or residence permit does not qualify.
The facility does not grant blanket visa-free access. Filipinos who do not hold one of the approved foreign documents must still secure a pre-arranged UAE visa before departure. Travelers are also generally advised to keep a passport valid for at least six months and to ensure their supporting document has not expired at the time of entry.
The UAE hosts one of the largest overseas Filipino communities, a factor the DFA cited among the reasons for the closer travel arrangement.
