Introduction
Planning a trip from the UAE to Egypt? Whether you’re dreaming of seeing the Pyramids of Giza, sailing down the Nile, or simply enjoying authentic Egyptian cuisine, you’re going to need a visa first. The great news is that the process for obtaining an Egypt visa for UAE residents is smoother than ever—especially if you know exactly what to expect.
From the right documents to the different types of visas available, this guide will walk you through every step. As a UAE resident, your passport type and nationality determine the visa process you’ll follow. But don’t worry—we’ll break it down in a way that’s easy to understand, with zero confusing jargon and no unnecessary stress. Whether you’re going for leisure, business, or to visit friends and family, this guide is your one-stop solution.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Egypt from the UAE?
Not all UAE residents are the same when it comes to visa eligibility. The key factor that determines your Egypt visa requirements is your passport nationality, not your Emirates ID. This means even if you’re a long-term resident of Dubai or Abu Dhabi, your eligibility depends on the country that issued your passport.
If you hold a GCC passport (like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, or Oman), you’re in luck—GCC nationals can enter Egypt visa-free for tourism and short visits. But for expats living in the UAE, like Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Nigerian, or other non-GCC nationals, getting an Egypt visa is a must.
The good news is that Egypt has recently upgraded its visa system, introducing a user-friendly eVisa platform that simplifies everything. Whether you’re applying for a single entry or a multiple-entry visa, most UAE residents can now complete the entire process online, without visiting the embassy. This makes spontaneous travel plans much easier to execute.
What Documents Do You Need?
Once you’ve confirmed that you’re eligible to apply online or at the embassy, it’s time to get your paperwork together. While the list is relatively short, it’s super important to ensure that everything is up-to-date and accurate. Any mistake—even a typo in your passport number—could delay your visa approval or cause rejection.
Here’s what most UAE residents need to provide when applying for an Egypt visa:
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Passport Copy: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date. Make sure it’s not damaged or expiring soon.
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UAE Residency Visa: You’ll need a copy of your valid UAE residence permit. Most visa types are accepted (work, investor, family, etc.), but it must be valid at the time of application and during your stay in Egypt.
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Passport-size Photograph: A recent, high-resolution color photo with a white background is usually required. Stick to the standard size used in most visa applications (4.5 cm x 3.5 cm).
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Travel Itinerary: Your return flight tickets and hotel reservations in Egypt. If you’re staying with a friend or family member, a letter of invitation and their Egyptian ID may be needed.
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Bank Statement (sometimes): For certain nationalities or cases, a bank statement showing sufficient funds might be required. This usually means maintaining at least AED 3,000–5,000 in your account for the past three months.
Different Egypt Visa Types for UAE Residents
Now that you’ve got your documents ready, let’s talk about the different visa types you can apply for. Depending on your purpose of visit—tourism, business, or transit—there are several options available. Picking the right one ensures you avoid unnecessary delays or entry issues upon arrival in Egypt.
For most travelers, the Tourist Visa is the go-to option. You can get a single-entry visa that allows you to stay in Egypt for up to 30 days, or a multiple-entry visa if you plan to visit Egypt more than once within a six-month window. The multiple-entry option is perfect for people who frequently travel across the region or are planning extended tours through North Africa.
Business travelers can apply for a Business Visa, which usually requires an invitation letter from an Egyptian company or business partner. These visas can also be single or multiple entry depending on the duration of the project or meetings.
There’s also a Transit Visa, although many travelers won’t need one if they are just passing through the airport for a short layover. However, if you plan to leave the airport during your layover in Egypt, you’ll definitely need one.
The eVisa system handles tourist and business visa requests and allows payments via secure online portals. Standard processing time is around 3 to 5 business days, although it’s always wise to apply at least a week in advance of your travel date.
The Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to apply? Great! Let’s walk through the simple steps to obtain your Egypt visa as a UAE resident, especially if you’re eligible for the eVisa route:
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Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Head to https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg – this is the ONLY official website for Egypt eVisas. Avoid third-party agencies unless you want to pay extra service fees. -
Step 2: Create an Account
Register with your full name, email, and a secure password. You’ll get a confirmation link to activate your account. -
Step 3: Fill in the Visa Application
Choose the visa type (tourist or business), enter your personal information, travel dates, and UAE residency details. Make sure all entries match your passport exactly. -
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload clear, color scans of your passport, UAE residence visa, and a passport-sized photo. JPEG and PDF formats are usually accepted. -
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
The current fee for a single-entry tourist visa is around $25 USD, while the multiple-entry visa is approximately $60 USD. Payments can be made using international debit or credit cards.
Once you submit your application, you’ll receive a confirmation email. The processing status can also be tracked through your account dashboard. When approved, you’ll get your visa in PDF format—just print it and carry it along with your passport when you travel.
Key Tips for a Smooth Egypt Visa Experience
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Apply Early to Avoid Stress
Even though processing times are quick, applying early helps avoid any last-minute surprises. Ideally, start your visa application 2 weeks before your trip, especially during holiday seasons when demand is higher. -
Keep Hard Copies with You
Always carry printed copies of your visa approval, hotel bookings, and return tickets. Egyptian immigration officers often ask for these upon arrival, especially at busy airports like Cairo International. -
Double-Check Entry Points
If you’re entering Egypt via land borders or sea ports, confirm whether your eVisa is accepted at that entry point. Most international airports accept it, but some smaller ports may require a traditional visa. -
Watch for Tourist Traps
While this isn’t directly related to visas, many first-time travelers get caught up in overpriced taxi rides or tour scams. Stick to government-approved guides and avoid street offers that seem too good to be true. -
Respect Local Customs and Laws
Egypt is a conservative country, especially in rural areas. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and never photograph military sites. Following cultural norms ensures a smoother, safer trip.
Conclusion
Getting an Egypt visa for UAE residents is no longer a confusing ordeal. Thanks to digital systems and friendly visa policies, the process is streamlined and accessible for most UAE expats. Whether you’re a Filipino traveling with family, an Indian solo traveller, or a Pakistani resident exploring African history, the application process is straightforward if you follow the right steps.
Egypt is a destination that offers something for everyone—whether it’s history, adventure, food, or relaxation. Don’t let paperwork stand in the way of your dream trip. Follow this guide, prepare your documents, apply in time, and get ready to experience the timeless magic of Egypt.
FAQ About Egypt Visa for UAE Residents
Q1: Do UAE residents need an Egypt visa?
Ans: Yes, most UAE residents with non-GCC passports need a visa to enter Egypt. GCC nationals can enter visa-free.
Q2: Can UAE residents get an Egypt visa on arrival?
Ans: Only a few nationalities can get a visa on arrival. Most UAE residents must apply online or through the Egyptian consulate.
Q3: Is Egypt visa on arrival for GCC residents?
Ans: Yes, GCC citizens (not expats) can enter Egypt without a visa for tourism purposes. Expats need to apply in advance.
Q4: Which country can I visit with a UAE residence visa?
Ans: UAE residence visa allows easier access to countries like Georgia, Azerbaijan, Maldives, and Armenia, but each has its own rules.
Q5: Can I visit Egypt with a UAE residence visa?
Ans: UAE residence visa alone isn’t enough; your passport nationality determines if you need a visa for Egypt.
Q6: What documents are required for an Egypt tourist visa from Dubai?
Ans: You’ll need your passport, UAE residency visa, photo, travel itinerary, and sometimes a bank statement or hotel bookings.