Visa-Free Travel for UAE Residents 2025: Full Country List
In 2025, residents of the UAE enjoy greater freedom to travel than ever before. With a valid residence visa, UAE residents can enter more than 140 countries without a prior visa, either visa-free or with visa-on-arrival facilities. What makes this even more exciting is that the privilege extends not only to Emirati citizens but also to expatriates, including Indian nationals living in the UAE.
This guide outlines the countries open to UAE residents and highlights the special benefits available to Indian passport holders.
Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents (All Nationalities)
Holding a UAE residence visa unlocks access across Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond. Popular destinations include:
Asia & Pacific
- Thailand
- Sri Lanka
- Philippines
- Malaysia
- Japan
- Indonesia
- Nepal
- Maldives
- Singapore
Europe & Caucasus
- Armenia
- Georgia
- Serbia
- Montenegro
Middle East & Africa
- Jordan
- Morocco
- Seychelles
- Mauritius
- Tanzania
Eurasia & Central Asia
- Azerbaijan
- Kyrgyzstan
These options make it easier for UAE residents to enjoy diverse landscapes, heritage sites, and modern cities without visa hurdles.
Extra Privileges for Indian Passport Holders in the UAE
Indian expatriates gain even wider access when combining their passport with UAE residency. They can travel visa-free or obtain visa-on-arrival at many destinations across the world.
Pacific & Caribbean
- Cook Islands
- Micronesia
- Fiji
- Vanuatu
- Montserrat
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Dominica
- Jamaica
Asia
- Bhutan
- Indonesia
- Nepal
- Thailand
- Sri Lanka
- Macao
Europe & Eurasia
- Serbia
- North Macedonia
Africa
- Tunisia
- Mauritius
Latin America
- Ecuador
- El Salvador
This list gives Indian residents in the UAE access to tropical islands, heritage-rich Asian hubs, and vibrant new travel markets.
How to Obtain a UAE Residence Visa
The key to enjoying these benefits is securing a valid UAE residence visa. The typical process involves:
- Eligibility Check – via employment, investment, family sponsorship, or Golden Visa programs.
- Document Submission – including passport, entry permit, photos, medical fitness test, and Emirates ID application.
- Medical Screening – health check through approved facilities.
- Biometrics & Emirates ID – fingerprinting and photo for official identification.
- Visa Stamping – residency permit added to your passport.
Why Visa-Free Travel Matters
- Saves Time & Money: No embassy queues, paperwork, or fees.
- 140+ Destinations: Smooth global mobility for business, tourism, education, and family visits.
- Boosts Business: Easier international trade and partnerships.
- Cultural Growth: Opportunities to discover global traditions and cuisines.
- Global Connectivity: Strengthens personal and professional ties.
