DUBAI, UAE, Oct 15: Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and their companions can now apply for a 30-day e-visa to enter the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with the option to extend it for an additional 30 days, the UAE Digital Government announced on Monday.

Previously, GCC residents were unable to extend their visas while in the UAE and had to exit the country to apply for a new entry visa if necessary. The e-visa is now a requirement for residents from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar wishing to enter the UAE.

Applications for the e-visa can be processed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or through the smart channels of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).

GCC expats and their companions traveling to the UAE must adhere to several conditions regarding e-visa applications:

Approval Notification: E-visas will be sent to the registered email address once the application is approved.

Traveling with Sponsor: Applications for GCC expats and their family members will not be approved if the sponsor is not traveling with them.

Entry permit validity:

Entry denial conditions:

Residency Validity: GCC residency must be valid for at least one year from the date of arrival.

Passport Validity: GCC residents' passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.

To apply for the entry permit, GCC residents can visit the GDRFAD website at https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae. Applicants need to register as users, select the appropriate service, and complete the application.

GCC expatriates must possess a valid passport or travel document for entry into the UAE, along with a copy of their residence permit or an electronic extract that includes their profession and residence validity. A personal photo with a white background is also required. After completing the application, a fee of Dh250 plus VAT must be paid. Once approved, the visa will be sent to the applicant's email.