Cambodia Visa for UAE Residents

For residents of the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Cambodia offers a striking contrast to the deserts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From the lush jungles surrounding Angkor Wat to the vibrant, rain-soaked streets of Phnom Penh, it is a destination that promises adventure. The flight from Dubai (DXB) or Abu Dhabi (AUH) typically involves a connection in Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur, taking roughly 10-12 hours in total travel time.

Whether you are an Emirati national or an expat living in Dubai, getting your travel documentation sorted is the first step. Fortunately, you do not need to visit a consulate in person. The Cambodia eVisa system allows you to secure your travel authorization entirely online, making the process smooth and efficient.

This guide answers every question you might have about applying for a Cambodia eVisa from UAE, covering everything from document requirements to flight routes.

Do UAE residents need a visa to Cambodia?

Yes. Most travelers from the UAE, including UAE nationals and the majority of expat residents (such as citizens of India, Pakistan, Philippines, UK, etc.), require a visa to enter Cambodia.

• UAE Nationals: You are eligible for the eVisa.
• Expat Residents: Your eligibility depends on your passport, not your UAE residency visa. However, most nationalities residing in the UAE (including Indian, Filipino, Pakistani, Egyptian, and British citizens) are eligible for the Cambodia eVisa.
• Exceptions: If you hold a passport from one of the few visa-exempt ASEAN countries (like Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore), you do not need a visa for short stays (usually 14-30 days). Always check your specific passport's eligibility.

How to get a Cambodia visa from Dubai?

There are three main ways to obtain a visa:

1. Online (eVisa): The most convenient method. You apply online through the official government portal or a trusted visa agent, pay with your card, and receive the visa by email. This saves you from queuing at the airport after a long flight.
2. Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available at Phnom Penh (PNH) and Siem Reap (SAI) airports. You queue up upon landing, submit a paper form, and pay in USD cash.
3. Consulate: There is a Royal Consulate General of Cambodia in Dubai (located in Deira), but this route is typically slower and requires in-person visits. It is generally reserved for special long-term visas that cannot be processed online.

What documents are needed for a Cambodia visa from Dubai?

To apply for Cambodia eVisa successfully, you need:

• Valid Passport: Must have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of entry. Ensure you have at least 2 blank pages.
• Digital Photo: A recent passport-style photo (white background, no glasses).
• UAE Residency Visa: While not strictly required for the Cambodian application itself, airlines in Dubai (Emirates/FlyDubai) often check your UAE visa validity to ensure you can return to the UAE.
• Credit/Debit Card: A valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the visa fee online.
• Flight Ticket: Proof of onward or return travel is often requested.

What are the pros and cons of a Cambodia visa on arrival vs e-visa for UAE residents?

• eVisa (Recommended):
• Pros: You skip the long "Visa on Arrival" queue at the airport (which can take 45+ minutes during peak times). You travel with peace of mind knowing you are already approved. You can use dedicated immigration counters.
• Cons: There is a processing fee ($36 total vs $30 for VOA). It requires advanced planning (3-5 days).
• Visa on Arrival:
• Pros: Slightly cheaper ($30 USD). Good for last-minute travel.
• Cons: Requires exact cash in USD (AED is not accepted). You risk being denied entry after a long flight if your documents aren't perfect. You must fill out paper forms on the spot.

What are some popular tourist attractions in Cambodia?

• Angkor Wat (Siem Reap): The largest religious monument in the world, famous for its sunrise views and intricate carvings.
• Royal Palace (Phnom Penh): A stunning example of Khmer architecture with its Silver Pagoda and manicured gardens.
• Koh Rong: An island paradise with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for escaping city life.
• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (Phnom Penh): A somber but important museum documenting the Khmer Rouge atrocities, essential for understanding modern Cambodia.
• Bayon Temple: Famous for its giant smiling stone faces.
• Pub Street (Siem Reap): The center of nightlife, offering affordable food, drinks, and vibrant energy.

What are the steps for a visa on arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport?

1. Land & Disembark: Follow the signs for "Visa on Arrival" immediately after leaving the plane.
2. Form Filling: Pick up an immigration form (if not given on the plane) and fill it out completely.
3. Submit: Queue at the "Apply Visa" counter and hand over your passport, completed form, and one physical passport-sized photo.
4. Pay: Wait for your name to be called at the payment counter. Pay the $30 USD fee in cash. (ATMs are available nearby but often have high fees or dispense large bills which can be hard to break).
5. Wait: Wait again for your name to be called to collect your passport with the visa sticker.
6. Immigration: Proceed to the immigration counters to get stamped into the country.

What are the photo requirements for a Cambodian visa?

• Format: JPG, PNG, or BMP.
• Size: Under 2MB.
• Style: Recent (last 6 months), plain white or off-white background, neutral expression.
• Dimensions: Standard passport size (approx. 4x6cm).
• Note for UAE Residents: Do not wear sunglasses or tinted glasses. Head coverings for religious reasons (hijab, turban) are permitted as long as the full face (forehead to chin) is clearly visible without shadows.

How long is the Cambodia visa valid for UAE residents?

• Validity: The eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. You must enter Cambodia within this 3-month window.
• Stay: Once you enter Cambodia, you can stay for 30 days starting from the date of entry stamped in your passport.

What are the requirements for extending a Cambodian e-visa?

If you want to stay longer than 30 days:

• Tourist (T) Visa: Extendable once for an additional 30 days. This must be done at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh (across from the airport).
• Business (E) Visa: Extendable for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months. This offers much more flexibility for long-term stays.
• Tip: You cannot extend it online. You must go to the immigration office in person or use a local travel agent in Cambodia to handle the "passport runner" service for a small fee.

How much money should I have for a trip to Cambodia?

Cambodia is very affordable compared to the UAE, but cash is king.

• Currency: The US Dollar (USD) is the de-facto currency used alongside the Cambodian Riel (KHR). Prices are quoted in USD.
• Budget: For a comfortable trip (mid-range hotel, meals, tuk-tuks), budget around $50 - $80 USD per day (excluding flight costs).
• Important: Bring crisp, new USD bills from UAE exchange houses. Old, torn, stained, or marked bills are strictly rejected by shops and hotels in Cambodia. Small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) are very useful.

What are the entry/exit border crossing rules for Cambodia e-visas?

You can use your eVisa at specific designated ports:

• Airports: Phnom Penh (PNH/KTI), Siem Reap (SAI), Sihanoukville (KOS).
• Land Borders: Poipet (Thailand border), Bavet (Vietnam border), Cham Yeam (Thailand border), Tropaeng Kreal (Laos border).
• Note: You generally cannot use the eVisa at sea ports (cruise ships) or small remote river crossings. Always check your specific entry point's capabilities.
• e-Arrival Card: As of 2024, all travelers must also complete the "Cambodia e-Arrival" card (CeA) within 7 days of arrival. This is a digital customs/health declaration separate from the visa.

What are the advantages of using a travel agent for an e-Visa?

• Expert Review: We manually check your photo and passport scan to ensure they meet strict government standards, preventing rejection and loss of fees.
• 24/7 Support: We are available via WhatsApp/Email to answer questions in English (and often Arabic/Hindi/Tagalog depending on the agent), unlike the government site which has limited support hours.
• Hassle-Free: We resize your documents and handle the form filling, so you don't have to worry about technical glitches or confusing questions.
• Status Updates: We keep you informed at every step of the process.