Following Fragomen news flashes #31 and #32/2015, from 1 October 2015, GCC residents entering the UAE must obtain an online visitor visa before arrival, unless they otherwise qualify for a UAE visitor visa-on-arrival based on their nationality. 46 nationalities, including US, UK and EU, may continue to enter with a visitor visa-on-arrival based on their passports and GCC citizens may continue to enter without a visa. Other GCC residents and their dependents must apply for the visitor visa on the Ministry of Interior's new website at https://www.ednrd.ae/GCCIND/login.do.

The applicants are required to submit their personal details, photograph, copies of their passport and GCC residence permit, and pay a fee of AED 230 by credit card. Upon issuance, the visa is valid for 30 days and is renewable for another 30 days.