Other BriefingsPassport Rules in the UAE: Updates and Mobility Benefits in 2025
UAE passport rules in 2025 cover a 12-month renewal window, single-name entry restrictions, and new residency options like the Blue Visa.
In 2025, the UAE introduced major updates to passport rules and residency-linked mobility benefits. Together, they shape how citizens and residents manage travel and long-term residency.
Expanded passport renewal window
On August 18, 2025, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) doubled the renewal window for UAE passports. Citizens can now renew up to 12 months before expiry, compared with the previous six-month limit.
The change reduces last-minute travel disruptions and allows citizens abroad to renew through embassies and consulates. Renewals are processed through the ICP smart services platform which is accessible on web and mobile. The extended window also intends to promote earlier adoption of biometric passports.
Single name passport entry rules
The UAE continues to apply restrictions on single-name passports but has eased conditions for certain travelers. Since January 2025, entry is generally allowed only if the father’s name or family name appears on the second page of the passport.
These rules mainly affect tourist and business visa applicants. Exemptions apply to residents with valid UAE visas, employment visa holders, and those traveling on diplomatic or official passports.
To qualify for entry, single-name travelers must present supporting documents such as:
- A name certificate from local authorities;
- An affidavit specifying the family name; and
- Verified family documents, often with attestation or apostille.
Airlines operating in the UAE like Emirates and Etihad have updated their booking systems to handle single-name travelers more smoothly at check-in.
UAE passport strength and global ranking
In 2025, the UAE passport achieved its highest ranking to date by reaching 8th place on the Henley Passport Index. This makes it the strongest passport in the Arab world and the only Middle Eastern passport in the global top 10.
UAE citizens now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184-185 destinations worldwide. A decade earlier, in 2015, access was limited to 35 destinations.
Some recent diplomatic agreements have contributed to this mobility. For example, China introduced visa-free entry for all GCC citizens, and the UAE continues to expand bilateral visa waiver deals.
Mobility benefits for UAE residents
Mobility advantages extend beyond citizens. Residents of the UAE, regardless of their nationality, who now have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 150 destinations.
These places have emerged as popular visa-free destinations for residents:
- Armenia, visa-free since July 2025;
- Georgia, up to 90 days without a visa;
- Azerbaijan, visa-on-arrival for 30 days;
- Mauritius, visa-free for 90 days;
- Thailand and Malaysia, visa-free for 30 days each; and
- Seychelles, visitor permit on arrival for 90 days.
Golden Visa holders enjoy extra benefits such as VIP airport services in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Esaad card with travel discounts, multiple-entry flexibility, and longer permitted stays in partner destinations.
New visa categories and the Blue Visa
The UAE launched the Blue Visa in 2025, a 10-year residency permit for individuals contributing to sustainability and environmental protection. Unlike other long-term visas, this residency does not require property purchases or financial investment.
Scientists, researchers, environmental activists, and entrepreneurs working in sustainability-related sectors are eligible for this visa. Applications begin with a 180-day multiple-entry visa for processing before the residency is granted.
The Golden Visa program has also been expanded. Now new categories cover:
- Nurses with at least 15 years of service;
- Educators who have made distinguished contributions;
- Content creators such as influencers and filmmakers; and
- Professionals in the gaming and e-sports industries.
In short
UAE passport rules in 2025 give citizens and residents more flexibility and wider mobility. Now the passports can be renewed a year in advance, single-name entry rules are clearer, and citizens hold the 8th strongest passport worldwide.
These developments present the UAE as one of the world’s most accessible and forward-looking mobility hubs.
Read more: How to Obtain a Residence Visa in the UAE: Routes and Requirements for Global Professionals
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