From February 25, nationals from 85 countries must have an ETA to travel
If you’re planning a trip to the UK soon, take note, as the travel rules for some UAE residents have changed.
From today, Wednesday, February 25, a new rule has come fully into force requiring most non-visa visitors to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the United Kingdom. Without one, airlines could refuse boarding, even if you’ve previously travelled visa-free.
Who needs an ETA?
For UAE residents who frequently visit the UK for holidays, business, or to see family, the change is significant. The ETA is not a visa, but a digital permission to travel that is now mandatory for visitors of 85 nationalities who do not normally need a visa. That includes many passport holders living in the United Arab Emirates. You can check the full list here.
The ETA isn’t new; in fact, since its launch in October 2019, more than 19 million visitors have successfully applied. But this month does mark the official enforcement of the ETA.
British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA, but dual nationals should take note. Those who hold British citizenship alongside another nationality must travel using a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement. Without one of these, you may be prevented from boarding your flight to the UK. From 26 February, certificates will be issued in digital format, removing the need to reapply every time a passport expires.
How much is the ETA?
An ETA costs £16 (approx Dhs80), allows multiple journeys, and is valid for two years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. It covers stays of up to six months for tourism, business, short-term study, and even transit trips where travellers pass through UK passport control to catch a connecting flight.
Applications are made through the official UK ETA app, and requires travellers to submit passport details, a photo, and answer a short set of security questions.
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