Gambia passport → United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates visa for citizens of the Gambia

Embassy / VFSVisit Visa

Citizens of the Gambia need a visa for the United Arab Emirates and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Not yet cross-checked · Last checked 2026-06-26. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Visit Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	60 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	5–10 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statement for last 3 months showing sufficient balance

How to apply

1
Check eligibility and gather documents
Ensure passport valid for 6 months and all required documents are ready.
2
Fill visa application form
Complete the application online via ICP website or paper form at embassy.
3
Pay visa fee
Pay the applicable visa fee at designated bank or online.
4
Submit application and documents
Submit form along with all supporting documents to UAE embassy or visa service centre.
5
Schedule and attend biometrics appointment
Book an appointment and provide fingerprints and photograph at the embassy or centre.
6
Wait for processing
Processing usually takes 5-10 working days.
7
Collect visa or passport
If approved, visa will be stamped in passport or issued as e-visa. Collect passport in person.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must have at least 6 months validity and two blank visa pages
Completed visa application form
Fill online or paper form
Recent passport-size photograph
White background, 4.3x5.5 cm

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight booking confirmation
Hotel reservation
For entire duration of stay
Return flight booking
Onward/return ticket
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or host letter

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statement or sponsor letter

Employment

Employment letter (if employed)
Optional
Stating position, salary, and leave approval
No objection letter from employer
Optional
If sponsored by employer

Supporting

Sponsor letter (if applicable)
Optional
From UAE resident or company
Copy of sponsor's Emirates ID and residence visa
Optional
If sponsored by UAE resident
Travel health insurance
Covering entire stay in UAE

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approx. AED 3,000 or equivalent

Bank statement (last 3 months)
Sponsor letter
Cash deposit

Sufficient funds to cover stay and return.

Good to know

Entry may be denied at port of entry if any document is incomplete.
Overstay penalties apply (AED 50 per day).

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documents

Double-check all documents before submission.

Insufficient funds

Provide clear proof of adequate funds or sponsor.

Criminal record or previous overstay

Ensure clean travel history and disclose any issues.

FAQ

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

Citizens of the Gambia need a visa for the United Arab Emirates and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visit Visa.

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

Up to 30 days.

How long does United Arab Emirates visa processing take?

Typically 5–10 days.

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

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Recent passport-size photograph; Travel itinerary; Hotel reservation; Proof of sufficient funds; and 7 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United Arab Emirates?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae/

Sources

smartservices.icp.gov.ae

Plan your trip to the United Arab Emirates

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