Bahrain-based Expats Can Now Apply for UAE 30-Day E-Visa

TDT | Manama

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Expatriate residents in Bahrain and other GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries are now eligible to apply for a 30-day e-visa to enter the UAE, provided their residency is valid for at least one year. The UAE Digital Government announced on Monday, introducing new opportunities for Bahraini expats to visit the UAE with greater ease.

According to the government’s statement, expats residing in any of the GCC countries—including Bahrain—must secure an e-visa prior to their travel to the UAE. This visa will allow them to stay in the UAE for 30 days, with the option to extend their stay for an additional 30 days if needed.

However, the UAE government has set specific conditions for entry. Expats will not be permitted to enter if their residence visa has expired or been canceled. Additionally, if their profession changes after the issuance of the e-visa, they will be denied entry upon arrival.

To be eligible for entry, Bahraini expats must ensure their GCC residency is valid for at least one year upon arrival, and their passport must be valid for no less than six months.

The GCC countries covered under this e-visa regulation include Bahrain, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman.

The UAE authorities stressed that obtaining an e-visa is mandatory for all GCC residents wishing to visit the country. Applications can be submitted online via the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs or through the smart channels of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP).

This new policy is expected to enhance travel flexibility for Bahraini expats, opening up opportunities for both business and leisure visits to the UAE.