Armenia to allow visa-free entry for UAE residents starting July 1

Starting July 1, 2025, UAE residents will be eligible for visa-free entry to Armenia, as confirmed by Khaleej Times. Currently, only UAE nationals can travel without a visa, while residents must obtain a visa on arrival.

The upcoming change will remove this requirement, marking a significant shift in regional travel access.The new policy will apply to residency visa holders with documents valid for at least six months, allowing eligible UAE residents to enter Armenia without a visa once the update takes effect.

Visa-Free Entry Details and Duration

Under the new policy, UAE residents can travel to Armenia for purposes such as:

Under the new policy, UAE residents will be allowed to stay in Armenia for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, without needing a visa. This change aligns UAE residency with that of other regions such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the European Union (EU), the Schengen Area, and the United States—all of which are already part of Armenia’s expanded visa-free travel programme.The policy applies to anyone holding a valid residency permit from any of the six GCC countries: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. Expanding the scheme to residents “broadens the accessibility for a substantial segment of the GCC expatriate communities,” the country’s Tourism Committee said on Wednesday.

Why Armenia Made the Change

The decision was finalized during an Armenian cabinet meeting last month. As reported by state news agency Armenpress, the visa reform is part of Armenia’s broader strategy to boost tourism and attract foreign investments. By easing access for residents of high-mobility countries and economic hubs, Armenia hopes to position itself as a more accessible and attractive destination for both short-term tourism and longer-term opportunities.

A Growing Destination for UAE Travellers

Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Armenia has become an increasingly popular destination for UAE-based travellers, especially among expatriates. The country offers a rich mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant urban culture. Top attractions include the capital city Yerevan, the scenic Lake Sevan, and Dilijan National Park, known for its lush forests and hiking trails. Armenia is also home to several ancient monasteries such as Geghard, Khor Virap, and Haghpat, which are major draws for history and architecture enthusiasts.

With direct flights from airlines like flydubai, Air Arabia, and Wizz Air, and now visa-free access for UAE residents, the country is more accessible than ever.