Middle East Travel Alerts

UAE Outlines Entry Requirements and Fees for Study and Training Visas

The UAE has confirmed its 2026 entry rules, granting visa-free access to nationals from over 70 countries under a tiered duration framework. Citizens from 49 countries, including China, qualify for stays of up to 90 days within a rolling 180-day window without employment rights, while GCC nationals face no stay limits. A conditional 14- or 60-day visa on arrival is also available for seven nations whose citizens hold valid residence permits from select Western jurisdictions or Japan.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Details Requirements and Fees for Study, Training, and Qualification Visas

The UAE has outlined the eligibility rules, entry permit duration, and fee schedule for its study, training, and qualification visa. Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and have secured admission to a licensed academic or research institution. The total processing cost is 300 AED, divided across application, issuance, and smart service fees.

Industry News

UAE Equity Markets Slip Amid Renewed Warnings on Middle East Air Disruption

Stock markets across the United Arab Emirates declined following renewed warnings over prolonged regional air travel disruptions. Dubai's benchmark index fell about 0.4 percent and Abu Dhabi slipped 0.6 percent, led by banking and blue-chip equities including Emirates NBD. Local carriers including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia continue to adjust flight schedules amid regional tensions.

China–UAE News

US Iran Sanctions Enforcement Constrained by China-UAE Banking and Trade Networks

An analysis published by Free Malaysia Today indicates that US attempts to enforce a zero-leakage sanctions regime against Iran face significant operational obstacles. Iran's oil trade, of which China purchased an estimated 90% prior to Hormuz disruptions, largely clears outside the US dollar system via renminbi settlements and shadow networks in Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Consequently, financial compliance scrutiny is intensifying across financial institutions operating within the China-UAE corridor.