Egypt Visa for UAE Citizens

For travelers living in the UAE, Egypt is the perfect neighbor. A short flight from Dubai (DXB) or Abu Dhabi (AUH) transports you to the heart of history—from the Great Pyramids of Giza to the vibrant nightlife of Cairo and the serene beaches of Sharm El Sheikh.

However, visa rules can be confusing because they differ significantly depending on whether you are a UAE National (Emirati) or a UAE Resident (Expat). Common queries like "Egypt visa for UAE residents" and "Do Emiratis need a visa for Cairo?" flood search engines daily.

This comprehensive guide clarifies the rules for both groups, covering requirements, costs (in AED/USD context), processing times, and expert tips for a seamless journey.

Do UAE Citizens (Emiratis) Need a Visa for Egypt?

The short answer is: Generally, No.

Citizens holding a UAE Passport are typically exempt from requiring an entry visa for tourism for stays of up to 6 months. This "visa-free" status reflects the strong diplomatic ties between the UAE and Egypt.

However, why do some Emiratis still apply for the eVisa?

• Business Travel: If the purpose of the visit is not strictly tourism, or if documentation is required for corporate reimbursement.
• Avoiding Border Delays: While rare, having a pre-approved eVisa can sometimes speed up immigration procedures during peak travel seasons (Eid holidays), allowing travelers to bypass certain queues.
• Peace of Mind: Some travelers prefer having a digital confirmation before departure.

Do UAE Residents (Expats) Need a Visa for Egypt?

Yes, most UAE residents need a visa.

If you live in the UAE but hold a passport from countries like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, or the UK, your entry rules are based on your nationality, not just your UAE residency.

• Eligible for eVisa: If your passport is from an eligible country (e.g., EU, USA, UK, Russia), you can apply online easily.
• Conditional eVisa: Some nationalities (like those from India or Pakistan) can apply for an eVisa only if they hold a valid GCC residence visa (UAE ID), but rules are strict.
• Visa on Arrival: Many UAE residents with a valid residence visa (valid for at least 6 months) are eligible for a Visa on Arrival, but the eVisa is recommended to avoid the risk of rejection at the airport.

Is It Better to Choose the Egypt eVisa or Visa on Arrival?

For UAE residents eligible for both, the Egypt Tourist Visa is the superior choice.

• Egypt eVisa (Recommended): You apply online from your home in Dubai or Sharjah. You pay securely and arrive with your entry guaranteed. No queuing at bank counters with cash.
• Visa on Arrival: You must stand in line at a bank kiosk in the arrival hall to buy a visa sticker ($25 USD cash) before passport control. If you arrive during a holiday rush, these lines can be hours long.

What Are the Egypt eVisa Requirements for UAE Travelers?

To apply online, you generally need the following:

1. Valid Passport: Must have at least six months of validity remaining from your date of arrival in Egypt.
2. UAE Residence Visa (For Expats): While not always asked for in the basic eVisa form, having a valid UAE residence visa is crucial for specific conditional approvals and for airline checks.
3. Digital Copy: A clear scan of the passport information page.
4. Payment Method: A credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard) to pay the fees.

Is Host Information Mandatory for the Application?

Yes. You cannot submit an application without providing "Host Information."

• Hotels: If you are staying at a hotel or resort, you must provide the Hotel Name, Address, Email, and Phone Number. Keep your booking confirmation handy when filling out the form.
• Family/Friends: If you are staying with relatives in Cairo or friends in Alexandria, you must provide their full name, home address, and Egyptian phone number.
• Tours: If traveling with a tour group, use the agency's contact details in Egypt.

What Is the Processing Time for an Egypt eVisa?

Planning a last-minute Eid getaway? Here is how long it takes:

• Normal Processing: 10 - 12 Working Days. Best for planning ahead.
• Rush Processing: 7 - 10 Working Days. Ideal for trips booked a few weeks out.
• Super Rush Processing: 5 - 7 Working Days. Essential for urgent travel plans.

Tip: Friday and Saturday are weekends in Egypt (and Friday-Sunday in UAE), which can affect "working day" calculations. Apply early!

Is the Payment Process Secure and Flexible?

• Government Website: Payment options can be limited, and technical failures on the payment gateway are common.
• evisa-to-egypt.info: We use secure, verified payment gateways and accept a wide range of credit and debit cards. We ensure your transaction is safe and issue an immediate receipt.

How Fast Will My Application Be Processed?

• Government Website: You are subject to standard processing times with no specialized follow-up if delays occur.
• evisa-to-egypt.info: We monitor your application constantly. If there is a delay, we follow up personally. We also offer rush processing options if you are in a hurry and need your visa urgently.

Can I Get an Emergency Visa for Urgent Travel?

If you need to travel immediately (e.g., family emergency or sudden business trip) and cannot wait for the standard processing times:

1. Super Rush Option: Use the Super Rush processing service mentioned above. This is the closest equivalent to an "Egypt emergency visa" for online applications.
2. Visa on Arrival: If you are eligible (check your passport nationality + UAE residency status), the Visa on Arrival is the fastest "emergency" option. You simply fly to Cairo or Sharm El Sheikh and buy the visa at the airport kiosk before immigration.
3. Consulate Visit: For extreme compassionate grounds (medical emergencies), visiting the Egyptian Consulate in Dubai or Embassy in Abu Dhabi directly might expedite a physical visa, though this is rare and subject to consular discretion.

How Do I Apply for the Egypt eVisa from the UAE?

The process is 100% digital:

1. Fill Out the Application: Enter personal details exactly as they appear on your passport.
2. Select Visa Type: Single or Multiple Entry.
3. Upload Documents: Upload your passport scan.
4. Pay Securely: Use your UAE bank card.
5. Receive & Print: Once approved (sent via email), print 2 physical copies.

Should I Choose Single Entry or Multiple Entry?

• Single Entry: Valid for 90 days, allowing one entry for a stay of up to 30 days. Perfect for a weekend break or a week-long holiday.
• Multiple Entry: Valid for 6 months, allowing unlimited entries (max 30 days per stay). Choose this if you travel between UAE and Egypt frequently for business or leisure.

Can I Enter Egypt with My Emirates ID?

No. You cannot travel to Egypt using only your Emirates ID.

• Emiratis: Must use a valid UAE Passport.
• Residents: Must use their home country Passport + valid UAE Residency (often requested at check-in).

Do UAE Children Need a Visa?

Yes. Every traveler, including infants, requires a visa (or exemption verification).

• Expats: Children need their own eVisa application.
• Passports: Ensure the child's passport is valid for 6 months.

Do I Need a Transit Visa for a Layover in Cairo?

If you are flying EgyptAir from Dubai to London with a stop in Cairo:

• Transit < 48 hours: Generally, you do not need a visa if you stay in the airport transit area.
• Leaving the Airport: If you want to grab a quick dinner in Cairo during a long layover, you must obtain a visa (eVisa or VoA).

Can I Convert My Tourist Visa to a Residence Visa?

• Strict Rules: You cannot convert a standard Tourist eVisa into a work or permanent residence visa while inside Egypt easily.
• Procedure: You usually need to exit the country and apply for the correct visa type at the Egyptian Embassy or Consulate in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

FAQ: People Also Ask

Can domestic helpers (maids/nannies) travel with me?

Yes, but they usually need a visa. UAE residents sponsoring domestic helpers can often get a visa for them, but it requires specific documentation (sponsor's passport, maid's visa, flight tickets). The eVisa is often the easiest route if their nationality is eligible.

Is the Egypt eVisa valid for business?

The standard eVisa is for tourism. For business meetings, it is often accepted, but for active employment, you need a work permit.

Can I drive to Egypt from the UAE?

It is physically possible (via Saudi Arabia and Jordan/Nuweiba ferry), but complex due to multiple border crossings and visa requirements for transit countries. Most travelers fly.

Conclusion: Start Your Egyptian Adventure

Whether you are an Emirati national looking for a quick escape or a UAE resident planning a family holiday, understanding the Egypt eVisa rules is key. Applying online saves you time and hassle, letting you focus on planning your itinerary rather than worrying about border control.

Check your passport and residency validity, choose the Rush option if Eid is approaching, and get ready to explore the land of the Pharaohs!