16 Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Destinations for UAE Residents
All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai
Calling all parents in need of a break—if a holiday is on your mind, here is some encouraging news. UAE residents and citizens enjoy easier access to many international destinations, with several countries allowing entry without a prior visa or offering visas on arrival. This makes spontaneous travel plans far more achievable.
Do note that entry conditions can differ depending on passport and nationality, so it is always wise to confirm the latest requirements through official sources before finalizing your trip.
From culturally rich cities known for their historic architecture to serene island escapes perfect for unwinding by the sea, the options cater to every travel style. Whether you are seeking exploration or relaxation, this list offers something for everyone.
1. Armenia
Few destinations manage to impress at every turn, and Armenia is one of them. Despite its compact size of just under 30,000 square kilometers, the country offers a rich mix of experiences ideal for families. In the capital, Yerevan, historic structures stand comfortably beside modern architecture, reflecting the city’s evolving identity.
Local cuisine is an essential part of the journey—freshly baked lavash from a traditional tonir, classic dishes prepared with veal and onions, and delicately crafted meat specialties showcase flavours refined over centuries. Beyond the cities, Armenia’s lush landscapes add a refreshing contrast, where green valleys and open spaces meet urban life without sacrificing comfort.
Travel time from Dubai: approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes.
2. Cambodia
Cambodia has a gentle way of encouraging travellers to slow down and truly take in their surroundings. Seeing the sunrise at Angkor Wat is a remarkable experience, but the country’s appeal goes far beyond its iconic landmarks. In Siem Reap, you will find calm cafés and creative spaces, while Phnom Penh offers museums that tell powerful stories with depth and care. Throughout the country, visitors are met with genuine hospitality and a strong sense of community.
Food is another highlight, with aromatic curries and flavorful street dishes that leave a lasting impression. For UAE residents, the convenience of a visa on arrival makes Cambodia more accessible than expected, offering a rewarding journey that feels authentic, enriching, and refreshingly untouched.
Travel time from Dubai: approximately 11 hours.
3. Tbilisi, Georgia
For travellers who enjoy combining culture, history, and cuisine, Tbilisi offers all three in one vibrant destination. Begin your exploration at the Chronicles of Georgia, where towering stone columns depict key moments from the nation’s past and its religious heritage. The city itself reflects a rich blend of influences, drawing from European, Russian, and Middle Eastern traditions.
Tbilisi is defined by contrast. Along the banks of the Mtkvari River, the historic quarter invites slow exploration, with narrow streets, classic wooden balconies, and access to the Narikala Fortress via cable car. Across the river, the newer districts showcase contemporary architecture and modern city life.
A stroll across the Bridge of Peace reveals both faces of the capital in a single view. While the dining scene is impressive throughout the city, an authentic way to experience Georgian food is by joining a home-based cooking session led by local elders, where families can learn to prepare traditional dishes such as cheese-filled breads and handmade dumplings using time-honoured recipes.
Travel time from Dubai: approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
.
4. Oman
Oman has a way of making you pause and breathe. Just a short journey from the UAE, it offers a stunning mix of mountains, deserts, beaches, and pristine wadis. Muscat’s low-rise skyline exudes a relaxed charm, while scenic drives uncover hidden swimming spots, historic forts, and villages that seem untouched by time. Spend your mornings hiking, afternoons swimming in clear waters, and evenings watching the sun set behind dramatic landscapes. With visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for UAE residents, Oman is ideal for last-minute trips that feel far more adventurous than the short distance suggests.
Travel time from Dubai: around 1 hour.
5. Maldives
When sun, sand, and sea are on the agenda, the real magic lies in what the destination has to offer. Crystal-clear waters give a window into vibrant marine life, where you might spot graceful manta rays gliding nearby or even discover shark teeth along the seabed. Many resorts occupy entire islands, providing everything from dining options to kids’ clubs and curated activities, giving parents some well-deserved downtime. Use this time to enjoy water sports, relax with tropical drinks, and soak in the serene surroundings.
Travel time from Dubai: approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.
6. Kenya
If your little one is fascinated by animals—or if you are—this destination is ideal for an unforgettable adventure. December brings cooler weather, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting. Step away from screens and social media, and fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of safari life for a truly memorable holiday.
Important: While a traditional visa may not be required, travelers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) at least 72 hours before arrival.
7. Kuwait
Kuwait has a quiet charm that makes it a refreshing short escape. It’s simple to reach yet offers enough difference from home to feel like a true getaway. Kuwait City blends modern skyscrapers with traditional souks, peaceful museums, and scenic seaside promenades that locals love. The culinary scene is a highlight, from comforting Gulf classics to bakeries worth returning to, and contemporary restaurants putting a fresh spin on local flavors. Spend an afternoon exploring the Tareq Rajab Museum, then enjoy coffee and people-watching along the corniche at sunset. With visa-on-arrival for UAE residents and a brief flight, Kuwait makes for a culture-rich long weekend without the crowds.
Travel time from Dubai: around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
8. Thailand
For families who love great food and plenty of shopping, Thailand is hard to beat. Picture mornings and evenings on the beach, watching the sunrise or sunset while kids play volleyball or football in the sand. Beyond the coast, scenic hiking trails lead to beautiful temples and panoramic viewpoints. While Bangkok is a must for shopaholics, don’t miss other destinations like Chiang Mai, where you can visit rescued elephants at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and even help feed them. Hungry kids? Street-side kiosks serve an array of sweet and savory fruits throughout the country. And for unique souvenirs, the floating markets are an experience not to be missed.
Travel time from Dubai: around 6 hours.
9. Baku, Azerbaijan
Sometimes, the most memorable experiences for kids come from the unexpected. Take a gondola ride along Baku Boulevard and enjoy people-watching as the city unfolds around you. Venture to the Bubbling Mud Volcanoes, where little ones will be amazed to see warm, mineral-rich mud bubbling up from the earth—a moment perfect for photos. For something whimsical, visit the Museum of Miniature Books, where shelves of tiny, carefully crafted tomes make you feel larger than life as you explore. Around the city, the architecture itself becomes part of the adventure, with building façades serving as canvases for creative street art, from eye-catching 3D murals to imaginative graffiti that delights both young and old.
10. Indonesia
Indonesia offers something for every kind of traveler. Some are drawn to Bali’s golden beaches and sunset dinners, others to peaceful mornings of yoga in Ubud or exploring hidden waterfalls off the beaten path. The food is a highlight everywhere—from simple roadside nasi goreng to artfully presented meals in jungle cafés. If Bali feels familiar, nearby islands and volcanoes promise adventure with fewer crowds. With visa-on-arrival available for UAE residents, spontaneous trips are easy to plan. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, romance, or a mix of experiences, Indonesia makes it simple to unwind completely.
Travel time from Dubai: around 8 hours and 30 minutes.
11. Sri Lanka
Get ready for the wind in your hair and a smile that won’t quit when you arrive in Sri Lanka, a country full of tuk-tuks, temples, and lush greenery that seems to appear in every snapshot. In Colombo, explore the architectural brilliance of Geoffrey Bawa’s House, stop at street stalls for tasty bites, wander through the historic Dutch-built Colombo Fort, and take in the fresh air at the nearby Sinharaja Forest Reserve. For a change of pace, try glamping—luxury camping at its finest. Travel a little further to Kottawatta Village, where a night under the stars awaits and wildlife abounds. Just keep an eye on your belongings—curious monkeys love shiny new things!
Travel time from Dubai: approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes.
12. Kyrgyzstan
Embrace nomadic culture when in Kyrgyzstan, where it isn’t so unheard of to live in yurts. Try the camp near Song Kul Lake for an authentic vibe. This is where not only can you appreciate the untamable ferocity of the wild but also appreciate the miracles of it as you dip your weary bones in hot springs, go horseback riding while a picture-perfect mountainside stretches out in the background, and history seems like a chapter you are living.
Time from Dubai: 4 hours
13. Jordan
Jordan has a way of leaving even experienced travelers in awe. Petra is more than just a sight—it’s an experience that stays with you. Walking through the narrow Siq and suddenly seeing the Treasury is a moment you won’t forget. Wadi Rum offers sweeping desert landscapes and starry nights that put life into perspective. Add floating in the Dead Sea, exploring the ancient ruins of Jerash, and experiencing warm, genuine hospitality, and you have a journey that truly delivers. With visa-on-arrival available for UAE residents, Jordan is both easy to reach and deeply rewarding—ideal for travelers seeking history, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Travel time from Dubai: approximately 3 hours.
14. Nepal
Nepal is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Kathmandu is a vibrant mix of bustling streets, fragrant temples, and hidden cafés waiting to be discovered. Venture beyond the city, and life slows down—whether it’s strolling along gentle hiking trails, exploring charming hilltop villages, or gazing at the Himalayas in awe. You don’t need to be an experienced trekker to enjoy the country; curiosity and an open mind are enough. With visa-on-arrival available for UAE residents, getting there is easy, but the experiences you’ll have are truly unforgettable.
Travel time from Dubai: around 4 hours.
15. Samarkand, Uzbekistan
History has been etched in stone, drawn in blood and fortitude, and expressed on the buildings that remain – like witnesses to those who passed by and to those who remained. For a lesson in history, in architecture and how intimately the two intertwine, head to Samarkand. Packed with marvels of human expression, spots such as Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Gur Emir Mausoleum, and Ulugh Beg Observatory are calling your name.
Time from Dubai: 3h
16. Seychelles
Looking for a true escape where stress doesn’t exist? Head to a destination of sparkling blue waters, pristine beaches, and endless water-based activities. Snorkel or dive to get up close with vibrant marine life, or simply relax with a fresh coconut while soaking up the sun. Whatever your pace, this is a place made for unwinding—and enjoying your own company to the fullest.
Travel time from Dubai: approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes.