Firming up your travel plans? It’s always a good time to do so and make the best of your time off, especially with the Eid Al Fitr public holiday coming up.

And if you’re in possession of a UAE residency visa, you can visit 11 countries without even having to think about applying for a visa.

All you need is yourself, your passport, your residency visa – and maybe a pal and some of your belongings to get to these UAE visa-on-arrival destinations.

So, without further ado, these are the countries you can jet off to completely hassle-free:

Armenia

Tucked in the South Caucasus, Armenia is like a hidden gem with ancient vibes and jaw-dropping scenery. Yerevan, the capital, is a mix of culture and cool, and you’ve got to check out the monastic complex of Geghard – it’s like a time machine. Dive into the lively markets, grab a bite of traditional Armenian grub, and soak in those unique flavours.

Note: An Armenian visa-on-arrival is available for everyone with a valid GCC country visa or residence card.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, straddling Europe and Asia, is like a crazy combo of modern and ancient vibes. Baku, the capital, is all about futuristic buildings next to ancient spots like the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Sheki’s got some mind-blowing palaces, and the mud volcanoes in Gobustan? Pretty incredible. Plus, the food – plov and kebabs that’ll make your taste buds party.
Note: You can get a month-long tourist visa-on-arrival at the airport with a UAE residency visa.

Georgia

Georgia is where the old meets the new, and it’s like a mix of beautiful landscapes and warm welcomes. Tbilisi’s got those cobblestone streets and an arts scene that’s off the charts. Check out Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe for a taste of ancient vibes. Oh, and Georgian grape– it’s a must-try.
Note: You can get a 90-day visa-on-arrival visa if you’re a UAE resident.

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Kenya

Kenya recently announced a no-visa policy and started welcoming travellers minus visas this year. It’s where you go for – we know, you know – views of the wildlife, the great Serengeti migration and of course luxury retreats.
Note: No visa is needed at all for UAE residents.

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan, the land of nomads and mountains, is calling all adventure junkies. While Bishkek has a chill vibe, the Tian Shan mountains are a playground for trekkers and horseback riders. Osh’s bazaars are like treasure hunts, and Karakol is an ancient city waiting to be explored. And Issyk-Kul Lake? Pure tranquillity.
Note: UAE residents can stay for up to 60 days with a visa-on-arrival.

Maldives

The Maldives is a haven for white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts and turquoise waters. Made up of about 200 inhabited islands and many beautiful resorts, The Maldives is a bucket-list destination for many.
Note: UAE residents can get a 30-day visa-on-arrival to The Maldives.

Montenegro

Montenegro, on the Adriatic coast, is all about medieval vibes and jaw-dropping views. The Bay of Kotor is like a fantasy fjord, and Budva’s old town is pure Mediterranean cool. Durmitor National Park is rugged beauty at its finest. And don’t get us started on the coastal cuisine.
Note: You can stay for up to 90 days within six months from the date of entry in the country if you’re a UAE resident.

Nepal

Nepal, the Himalayan wonderland, is where majestic peaks meet fantastic art and culture. Kathmandu’s temples and markets are a trip and the trekking trails of Annapurna and Everest? Views that’ll humble you. Pokhara’s lakeside chill is the perfect escape and the momo and dal bhat? Comfort food, Nepali style.
Note: You can get either 15, 30 or 90-day visa-on-arrival in Nepal if you’re a UAE resident.

Oman

Neighbouring Oman is one of the most stunning places you can visit with abundant natural beauty throughout the land. You can see the stunning Musandam Peninsula and the calm of the Wahiba Sands.
Note: All UAE residents can get a 30-day visa-on-arrival as long as their UAE residency is valid for the next three months or longer.

Seychelles

One of the most beautiful spots on earth hands down. Mahe’s beautiful jungles, while Praslin’s Vallée de Mai is like nature’s secret garden. La Digue’s beaches are straight out of a movie. And Seychellois cuisine? A feast with African, French, and Indian flavours that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Note: You can get a visa-on-arrival provided you have a return ticket, prepaid accommodation and sufficient funds for your stay.

Uzbekistan

If you are a fan of ancient architecture, you’ll enjoy going to Samarkand, a city that once stood on the Silk Route. When here, head to the Registan plaza which is home to three ornate buildings (which also make for great backdrops for photographs). It’s also very, very welcoming of tourists so book yourself a homestay, cooking classes or even go yurt camping for an excellent experience.
Note: If you have a UAE residency visa you can stay for up to 30 days in Uzbekistan provided your residency visa is valid for at least 90 days after you enter the country.

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