If you’re looking for a last-minute summer holiday from Dubai, then you’re going to want to know about the latest country to announce visa-free travel for UAE residents.
Starting from Tuesday July 1, just after the Islamic New Year holiday, people living in Dubai and the other emirates can travel to Armenia without a visa.
Previously only visa-free for UAE nationals, the latest announcement means that everyone living in the United Arab Emirates is able to holiday in Armenia hassle-free.
You can travel for up to 90 days within any 180-day period – no paperwork, no visa-on-arrival, just pack and go.
To qualify, your UAE residency must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date. That’s it.
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The change applies not just to UAE residents but to all valid residency holders from GCC countries – Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar included.
It’s a move that opens the doors wider for expats across the region to explore this under-the-radar gem at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
The Armenian Tourism Committee confirmed that the decision is part of a wider effort to boost tourism and business ties with the Gulf.
The country has been gradually expanding its visa-free access, having previously rolled it out to nationals of the UAE in 2017, Qatar in 2019 and Kuwait in 2022.
Only a three-hour flight from the UAE, Armenia is well-connected with direct routes from airlines like flydubai, Air Arabia and Wizz Air.
Once you’re there, expect dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries carved into cliffs, bustling open-air markets and a food scene that deserves more hype – think lavash, grilled meats and plenty of grape.
Armenia’s tourism officials say the goal is simple: to welcome more travellers from the region looking for meaningful cultural experiences, whether it’s hiking to a 9th-century monastery or dancing at a mountain festival.
Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, said that the nation looks forward to welcoming GCC travellers.
She said: “This milestone reflects our dedication to making Armenia more accessible to regional travellers.
“We look forward to welcoming more guests from the GCC who seek meaningful travel experiences – whether through our ancient monasteries, vibrant food scene, or immersive cultural festivals.”
So if you’ve got a valid UAE residency and a few days to spare, you’ve now got one more destination to add to your summer travel list – no visa required.
Source: timeoutdubai
