United Arab Emirates passport → Bhutan

Bhutan visa for citizens of the United Arab Emirates

eVisaeVisa · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for Bhutan and can apply online for an eVisa.

Verified · Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	eVisa · Tourist (up to 90 days)
How to apply	Fully online — no office visit
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	5–7 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Not required for standard tourist visa, but Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of 200 USD per person per night must be paid for almost all visitors. SDF reduced to 100 USD if paid in US dollars from Sep 1, 2023 to Aug 31, 2027.

How to apply

1
Select a registered Bhutanese tour operator
All tourists must book their trip through a licensed tour operator in Bhutan.
2
Tour operator submits visa application on your behalf
The operator fills the eVisa application and uploads documents via the official portal.
3
Wait for visa processing (5–7 working days)
The Department of Immigration processes the eVisa; approval is communicated to operator.
4
Pay Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and service fees
Once visa is approved, pay the required SDF (200 USD/night or 100 USD/night with discount) through the operator.
5
Receive visa clearance letter
The operator issues a visa clearance letter that must be presented at the point of entry.
6
Travel to Bhutan and obtain visa on arrival stamp
At Paro International Airport or land border, present visa clearance letter and passport to get entry stamp.
7
Pay any remaining fees or deposits at entry (if required)
Confirm with operator whether any additional payment is needed upon arrival.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Passport must have at least two blank pages.
Passport-size photograph (recent, white background)
35mm x 45mm, taken within the last 6 months.

Travel

Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or tour confirmation)
Must be pre-booked via a registered Bhutanese tour operator.
Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket)
Shows planned entry and exit from Bhutan.

Financial

Sustainable Development Fee payment receipt
SDF of 200 USD/night (100 USD if paid in USD during Sep 2023–Aug 2027). Payable after visa approval.
Tourism levy or service fee (if applicable)
Optional
May be included in tour package; confirm with operator.

Supporting

Completed eVisa application form
Submitted online via the official portal.
Travel insurance (recommended)
Optional
Covers medical expenses and repatriation.
Copy of previous visas (if held)
Optional
Only for previous Bhutan visits.

Good to know

Sustainable Development Fee is mandatory. Without payment, visa cannot be issued.
All tourists must book through a registered tour operator — independent travel is not permitted.
SDF reduced to 100 USD per night only if paid in US dollars from September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2027.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all documents with your tour operator before submission.

Passport validity less than 6 months

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of entry.

Failure to pay Sustainable Development Fee

Arrange payment through your tour operator immediately after visa approval.

Previous visa violations in Bhutan

Comply with all visa conditions during previous stays.

FAQ

Do citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for Bhutan?

Citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for Bhutan and can apply online for an eVisa. Visa type: eVisa · Tourist (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of the United Arab Emirates stay in Bhutan?

Up to 90 days.

How long does Bhutan visa processing take?

Typically 5–7 days.

What documents do citizens of the United Arab Emirates need for Bhutan?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity); Passport-size photograph (recent, white background); Completed eVisa application form; Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or tour confirmation); Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket); Sustainable Development Fee payment receipt; and 3 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for Bhutan?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://visit.doi.gov.bt/

Sources

visit.doi.gov.bt

Plan your trip to Bhutan

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