Planning a getaway from the skyscrapers of Dubai or Abu Dhabi to the timeless pyramids of Giza? Egypt remains one of the top travel destinations for people living in the UAE, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation just a short flight away.
However, navigating visa rules can often be the most stressful part of travel planning. Whether you are an Emirati national or an expatriate resident in the UAE, understanding the Egypt eVisa requirements is crucial for a smooth journey.
This comprehensive guide answers the most frequently asked Egypt Visa for UAE Citizens, covering everything from eligibility and costs to the application process and common pitfalls.
Do UAE Citizens Need a Visa for Egypt?
This is the most common confusion. The answer depends strictly on your passport.
For UAE Nationals (Emirati Passport Holders): You are generally exempt from requiring a visa for tourism purposes. UAE citizens can typically enter Egypt visa-free for stays of up to 6 months. You simply need to present your valid UAE passport at immigration.
For UAE Residents (Expats): If you are an expatriate living in the UAE (holding a passport from India, Philippines, UK, Pakistan, etc.), your visa requirement depends on your passport’s nationality, not your UAE residence visa. Most UAE residents will need to obtain either an Egypt eVisa or a Visa on Arrival.
Egypt eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival for UAE Residents: Which is Better?
While many UAE residents are eligible for a Visa on Arrival, the Egypt eVisa is widely considered the superior option for peace of mind.
Egypt eVisa: Applied for online before you travel. It guarantees your entry permission before you even board the flight, allowing you to skip long queues at the bank counters in Egyptian airports.
Visa on Arrival: Requires you to line up at a kiosk in the airport arrival hall to purchase a visa sticker (cash only, usually USD) before proceeding to passport control. During peak seasons (like Eid or winter holidays), these lines can take over an hour.
Verdict: Choose the eVisa to save time and avoid carrying exact cash amounts.
Are corrections possible after submission?
Government Site: Once you click the final submission button, the application record is permanently locked. Any mistake made means the application is invalid, and you must file a brand new application and pay the fee again. evisa-to-egypt.info: Yes, this is a core benefit. Since we hold the application for expert review before submitting it to the Egyptian authorities, you have a window of time to update travel dates, passport numbers, or other critical details by simply contacting our support team.
How Much Does an Egypt eVisa Cost for UAE Residents?
The cost of the Egypt eVisa is standard for all applicants, regardless of residency. The government fees are:
Single Entry Visa
Multiple Entry Visa
Fee Structure Breakdown
When applying, it is important to understand how the total Egypt eVisa fee is calculated: Total Fee = Government Fee + Processing Fee (+ Rush/Super Rush)
Government Fee (Visa Cost): This is the mandatory fee paid to the Egyptian government.
Processing Fee (Service Fee): This is the fee charged by the visa agency for checking your application, verifying your documents, and providing 24/7 support.
Accepted Payment Methods
You can pay securely online using a variety of modern methods, which is a significant advantage over the cash-only Visa on Arrival.
Credit & Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club.
Digital Wallets: PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay.
Security Features: The payment portals are highly secure, using SSL encryption, PCI DSS compliance, and 3D Secure authentication.
Why is there an extra service fee?
Government Site: The only cost is the mandatory government fee. This low cost reflects the minimal service: no human review, no support, and full assumption of all risk by the applicant. evisa-to-egypt.info: The service fee covers the essential value we provide: 24/7 personalized support, meticulous human document review, secure submission management, continuous status tracking, and dedicated follow-up, all designed to deliver peace of mind.
What Documents Are Required for Egypt eVisa Application?
To apply successfully, keep the following documents ready on your device:
Valid Passport: Must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your date of arrival.
Scanned Passport Bio Page: A clear, color scan of the page with your photo and details (JPG or PNG format, usually under 500KB).
Travel Details: Arrival dates and accommodation info (Hotel name/address).
How Long Does It Take to Process Egypt eVisa from UAE?
Processing times can vary based on the service level you choose. It is recommended to apply well in advance to allow for any unforeseen delays or complications.
Normal Processing
This is the standard processing time for eVisa applications.
The average processing time is usually around 5 - 7 Working Days.
Recommended for travelers planning weeks in advance.
Rush Processing
If you require a faster processing time, you can opt for the Rush Processing option.
The Rush Processing option prioritizes your application and reduces the processing time.
The average processing time for Rush Processing is usually around 3 - 5 Working Days.
Super Rush Processing
For the most urgent cases, the Super Rush Processing option is available.
This option ensures the quickest processing time for your eVisa application.
The average processing time for Super Rush Processing is usually around 2 - 3 Working Days.
Can I Apply for an Egypt eVisa with a Short Validity Passport?
No. This is a strict rule. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you intend to enter Egypt.
If your passport expires in less than 6 months, your eVisa application will likely be rejected, or you may be denied boarding at UAE airports (DXB/AUH) even if you have a visa. Renew your passport before applying.
Is the Egypt eVisa Valid for Multiple Entries?
Yes, if you select that option.
Single Entry: Valid for 3 months from the date of issue. You can stay for up to 30 days. Once you leave Egypt, the visa is void.
Multiple Entry: Valid for 6 months from the date of issue. You can enter and exit Egypt multiple times, with each stay not exceeding 30 days. This is ideal if you plan to visit neighboring countries and return to Cairo.
How to Apply for Egypt eVisa Online: Step-by-Step Guide?
Follow these genuine steps:
Start Application: Select "United Arab Emirates" as your current location, but ensure you select your actual Nationality correctly.
Upload Documents: Upload the clear scan of your passport.
Pay the Fee: Use a valid Visa or Mastercard.
Download: Once approved (via email), log in, download the PDF, and print at least two copies.
What Are the Common Reasons for Egypt eVisa Rejection?
Rejections are rare but usually happen due to user error:
Typos: Mismatch between the name on the form and the passport code (MRZ).
Blurry Uploads: Passport scan is unreadable or has glare.
Wrong Nationality: Selecting "United Arab Emirates" as nationality when you are actually a resident with a different passport.
Passport Validity: Passport expiring soon.
Do I lose money if my visa is rejected?
Government Site: The government visa fee is non-refundable upon rejection. You not only lose the money but also face significant delays and stress, potentially jeopardizing your travel plans. evisa-to-egypt.info: By preventing the errors that cause 99% of rejections, we minimize this risk entirely. In the rare case of a pre-submission cancellation, we refund the service fee (transaction charges excluded). Our primary focus is ensuring first-time approval.
Do Children Need a Separate Egypt eVisa?
Yes. Every passenger, regardless of age, requires a valid visa.
If the child has their own passport, you must file a separate application for them (parents can create a "Group" application on the portal).
If the child is endorsed on a parent's passport, you must include their details in the parent's application section.
Can Domestic Helpers Travel to Egypt with UAE Sponsors?
Yes, but the rules are slightly different. Domestic helpers (maids, nannies) traveling with their GCC/UAE sponsors usually do not need an eVisa if they are traveling with the sponsor family. They can typically obtain a visa on arrival or a special entry permit upon arrival in Egypt, provided they have a valid UAE residence visa and are accompanied by the employer. Tip: Carry a copy of the helper's contract and your flight tickets showing you are traveling together.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for an Egypt Visa?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for the eVisa application itself, but it is highly recommended. Egypt's healthcare system can be expensive for tourists. A simple policy covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage provides a safety net. Many UAE banks offer complimentary travel insurance with premium credit cards—check if you are covered.
What Should I Do If My Egypt eVisa Payment Fails?
Payment gateways can sometimes struggle with certain UAE bank cards.
Solution 1: Call your UAE bank to authorize an international transaction to Egypt.
Solution 2: Try a different payment method. The system accepts various Digital Wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) which often have higher success rates than direct card entry.
Solution 3: Ensure you are not using a VPN, as this can trigger fraud alerts on the portal.
Can I Extend My Stay in Egypt with an eVisa?
The eVisa grants you a 30-day stay. If you wish to stay longer, you cannot extend the Egypt eVisa online. You must visit the Passports, Emigration and Nationality Administration (El Mogamma) in Abbasiya, Cairo, or equivalent offices in other governorates to apply for an extension. Overstaying your visa without extension will result in a fine at the airport upon departure.
Do I Need a PCR Test or Vaccination to Enter Egypt?
As of 2024/2025, Egypt has lifted all COVID-19 entry restrictions. You do not need to show proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test to enter Egypt from the UAE. However, travelers arriving from countries with Yellow Fever risks (mostly African and South American nations) must show a Yellow Fever vaccination card. Direct flights from UAE are unaffected by this.
How Can I Check My Egypt eVisa Status Online?
You can track your application on the same site.
Click on "Application Status".
Approvals usually show as "Issued".
If it says "Pending" for more than 7 days, check your email (including Spam) for any requests for additional documents.
Can I Enter Egypt with My Emirates ID Only?
No. The Emirates ID is a domestic identification document for UAE and GCC travel (sometimes). It is not valid for international travel to Egypt. You must present your original Passport. Airline staff at DXB, AUH, or SHJ will deny you boarding if you only present an Emirates ID.
Best Time to Visit Egypt from the UAE?
While visa questions are technical, timing is practical.
Best Weather: October to April. (Great escape from UAE heat, though UAE winters are also nice).
Peak Season: December and January (Christmas/New Year) and Eid holidays.
Pro Tip: During Eid holidays, the Visa on Arrival lines at Cairo airport can be chaotic. This is the #1 reason UAE residents should opt for the eVisa—it saves you from starting your holiday with a 2-hour wait!
Conclusion Getting an Egypt eVisa for UAE residents is a straightforward, digital process that removes the hassle of airport paperwork. For UAE citizens, the exemption makes travel even easier. By preparing your documents in advance and applying through the official channels, you ensure that your journey to the land of the Pharaohs is memorable for all the right reasons.
