UK ETA Now Mandatory for UAE Nationals Travelling to the United Kingdom

UAE nationals have been required to hold an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the United Kingdom since February 2024, when the ETA scheme was extended to GCC nationals. Before that, Emirati passport holders could visit the UK for up to 6 months without any prior authorisation. Since 25 February 2026 this requirement is fully enforced at the border: carriers (airlines, ferry and train operators) cannot board ETA-required passengers who do not hold a valid ETA. You can still visit without a traditional visa, but you must apply for and receive an ETA before departure.

The UK ETA application is straightforward and fully digital. You do not need to visit any embassy, VFS centre, or submit physical documents. The entire process takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.

1. 1Download the "UK ETA" app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or visit the official gov.uk ETA page.
2. 2Create an account and enter your personal details as they appear on your UAE (Emirati) passport.
3. 3Upload a clear photo of your passport bio page using your phone camera.
4. 4Take a selfie for facial verification — the app uses biometric matching.
5. 5Pay the GBP 20 fee using a debit or credit card.
6. 6You will receive a decision via email, usually within 3 working days. The ETA is digitally linked to your passport — no printout is needed.

If you are a UAE national planning to visit the UK for tourism, family visits, or business meetings, make sure you apply for your ETA well before your departure date. While the process is usually quick, delays can occur during peak travel periods. We also recommend checking that your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining from your planned UK arrival date.

For UAE residents who are not Emirati nationals (e.g., Indian, Pakistani, Filipino passport holders), the ETA does not apply to you — you still need a standard UK visa. OraVisa can help you prepare your UK visa application — including document preparation, guidance on booking your own VFS Global appointment, and application review.