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United Arab Emirates Visa for France Citizens 2026

Visa Free

French citizens can enter the United Arab Emirates visa-free for tourism or business for up to 90 days per entry, with an option to extend for another 90 days.

Guide last updated September 24, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry
  • No visa or e-Visa application required for the initial 90-day stay
  • Proof of onward or return travel may be requested
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or UAE resident sponsor details) recommended
  • No biometrics collected for the visa-free entry, though UAE immigration does capture biometric photos/fingerprints at some airports as standard border procedure
  • Travel health insurance is recommended, not mandatory for tourists

Visa types

  • Visa-free tourist/business entry: 90 days per entry, extendable once for an additional 90 days (total up to 180 days), multiple entries allowed
  • Longer stays, employment, or residency require an employment visa or residence permit sponsored by a UAE employer, family member, or through the Golden Visa program

Entry conditions

  • Up to 90 days per entry, visa-free, extendable once for another 90 days via the UAE ICP smart services app or a typing centre, for a fee
  • No paid work permitted while on the visa-free entry status
  • Present your passport and be ready to show a return ticket or proof of accommodation on request
  • Overstaying incurs daily fines (AED 50/day as of recent regulations) until departure or extension

Fees & processing time

  • No fee for the initial 90-day visa-free entry
  • Extension fee for the additional 90 days is typically around AED 650-750 (roughly USD 175-205), processed through GDRFA or ICP channels
  • Extension processing is usually same-day to a few working days when applied through an authorized typing centre or the smart services app
  • No fee or processing needed if departing within the initial 90 days

Tips for France travelers

  • Keep track of your exact entry date, since the 90-day count starts from arrival and overstay fines accrue daily
  • If you intend to stay the full 180 days, file the extension request before the initial 90 days expire to avoid a gap and fines
  • Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports are efficient for e-gate processing for many nationalities but French passport holders should still expect a standard passport check on the visa-free lane
  • Be aware of UAE's strict laws on conduct, substances, and public behavior, which differ significantly from France; check the French MEAE advisory for specific guidance

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.