Egypt is a popular travel destination for UAE residents due to its close proximity, cultural heritage sites, and affordable prices. UAE residents looking to travel to Egypt need to obtain a visa before their trip. The visa application process for UAE residents is relatively straightforward if you have the required documents.
Documents Required
When applying for an Egyptian visa, UAE residents need to submit certain documents. The key documents required include:
- Original Passport: Your original passport with at least 6 months validity remaining and blank visa pages. Your passport should not have any physical damage.
- Photocopy of Passport: A clear, readable photocopy of the passport bio-data page and the page with your UAE residence visa. Black and white or color copies are accepted.
- Visa Application Form: The application form needs to be filled out completely and signed. Do not leave any fields blank. Use black or blue ink pen only.
- Photos: Submit 2 recent passport-size photographs with white background meeting the exact size specifications. Photos should be clear and taken within the last 6 months.
- Travel Itinerary: Provide a copy of your detailed round-trip flight reservations showing exact travel dates. If traveling by land, submit confirmed hotel reservations covering the entire trip duration.
- Bank Statement: An original bank statement not more than one month old showing sufficient funds to cover all trip expenses. There should be enough balance for accommodation, meals, transport, etc.
- UAE Residence Visa Copy: A photocopy of both the front and back of your valid UAE residence visa. Your visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel to Egypt.
- NOC Letter: Non-GCC nationality holders need to provide an NOC letter from their employer in the UAE approving annual leave for the Egypt trip duration.
- Processing Fees: You need to pay the visa processing fees online or provide the exact cash amount at the visa center. Fees vary based on visa type – single entry, multiple entry, express service, etc.
Visa Application Process
UAE residents have two options when applying for their Egyptian travel visa – either directly through the embassy or through a licensed visa processing agency. Here are the key steps:
Choose Visa Type
Egypt offers both single and multiple entry tourist visas valid for up to 3 months from date of issue. Choose the right category based on your detailed travel plans and duration of stay in Egypt.
Prepare Documents
Gather and prepare all the required documents at least 4-5 weeks in advance before submitting your application. Double check to ensure no document is missing or expired.
Fill Application Form
The Egyptian visa form requires basic personal details, passport information, as well as travel information. Fill out every section accurately and completely in black or blue pen.
Pay the Fees
You can conveniently pay visa fees online via credit card before visiting the application center. Fees start from around AED equivalent of $25 and depend on visa type.
Book Appointment
Visit centres allow walk-ins but it is recommended to book your appointment slot online in advance to avoid long wait times. Choose your preferred date and time.
Submit Application
Visit the visa center and submit your original documents along with photocopies and filled application. The staff will verify all details.
Track Processing
Normal visa processing time is approximately 4-5 business days once submitted. You can track current status online or via call center.
Passport Collection
Once approved, you will receive an SMS or email to collect your passport stamped with the visa from the center. Verify all your details before leaving.
Key Recommendations for getting Egypt visa for UAE residents
- Check passport meets all requirements and will not expire for at least 6 months after entering Egypt.
- Photocopy all documents including hotel bookings, flight reservations, bank statements.
- Provide photos with the exact dimensions and a plain white background. No selfies.
- Triple check the visa application form is error-free before submitting it.
- Opt for express service if you need the visa processed quicker within 2-3 days.
- Make copies of your authorized visa to carry when you arrive in Egypt.
- Always refer the embassy website for the latest Egyptian visa rules, policies, and fees.
Top Places to Visit in Egypt with a Tourist Visa
Once you obtain your Egyptian tourist visa as a UAE resident, an incredible adventure awaits you in this ancient land. From iconic monuments to natural wonders, here are top attractions and destinations to add to your Egypt itinerary:
- Pyramids of Giza – The legendary pyramids are a must-see just outside Cairo. Visit the Great Pyramids, Sphinx and Valley Temple. Your visit to Egypt will never be complete without exploring the pyramids of Giza.
- Luxor Temple – This impressively large ancient temple complex in Luxor features intricate carvings and columns.
- Nile River Cruise – Cruise down the legendary Nile River and enjoy views of temples and relics dotting the riverbanks.
- Red Sea – Relax at a Red Sea beach resort or go snorkelling/diving to explore colorful coral reefs.
- White Desert – Trek this gorgeous natural white chalk rock formation in Farafra.
- Khan El Khalili Bazaar – Wander around this vibrant bazaar in Cairo full of spices, gold, fabrics and more.
- Saqqara – Explore one of Egypt’s oldest ancient sites featuring the iconic Step Pyramid.
- Abu Simbel Temples – Marvel at the massive rock-cut temples originally built by Ramses II.
- With so much to see and do, your Egyptian tourist visa will allow you an unforgettable trip full of history, culture, and adventure.
Final words
With documents ready and following the step-by-step guide, UAE expats can readily get their tourist or transit visa for Egypt. Plan your itinerary well ahead and apply for the visa with sufficient time to avoid last minute delays or problems. Finding a direct flight from UAE to Egypt is not challenging. The flight tickets are quite inexpensive as well. You just need to follow this guide and act so that you can get there without any issues.
Santosh Kadam is a travel lover and a full-time expert visa consultant. He has all kinds of visa related information on his fingertips and loves to blog about visa processes during his free time.