Visa Waiver for Emiratis

The UAE is the first country in the Arab world to be granted a Schengen visa waiver. Under an EU-UAE agreement, holders of UAE passports have been exempted from visa requirements to enter the Schengen Area for stays of up to 90 days (within any 180-day period).

EU

This increases people-to-people connections and offers increased opportunities for business, tourism, leisure and hospitality both in Europe and in the UAE. 

The visa waiver does not apply to Ireland which is not part of the Schengen Area. 

UAE citizens are advised to consult the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs or refer to the Embassy of the Schengen Area country they intend to travel to. 

The EU is updating its travel procedures for non-EU visitors, including UAE nationals and residents. 

For more information, please visit:  

Visa policy

Schengen

Schengen visa

For a list of frequently asked questions, visit: Schengen FAQs. 

Entry/Exit System

The new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay, each time they cross the external borders of any of certain European countries using the system. It modernises border management by increasing efficiency and quality of processes at the border. It also simplifies travel and makes it safer.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The EU Delegation to the UAE does not deal with visa and consular matters. These are handled by individual EU countries' embassies and consulates.  

The EU and the UAE have a vibrant, longstanding relationship in the field of education. The Erasmus+ program is active in the Gulf region and provides young people and academics the opportunity to study or teach in Europe. 

Erasmus+

Erasmus+

Erasmus+ is a very wide programme, covering a diverse range of actions. The below actions are open to participating organisations from third countries not associated to the Programme, as per the eligibility status of the UAE.

International credit mobility (ICM)

Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility (ICM) is a program that supports the mobility of individuals enrolled or employed at a higher education institution. International Credit Mobility has four different opportunities: student mobility for studies (2 – 12 months), traineeships, and staff mobility (5-30 days) for teaching and training. 

The handbook for partner countries may be accessed here.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

Emirati students may be interested to apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJMs), where they can students study in at least two different countries, and obtain a joint, double, or multiple degree, and possibly also be awarded a scholarship. Students can find the programmes on the Erasmus Mundus joint masters catalogue (see link), and apply directly to the programme coordinator. 

Institutions from the UAE can also be part of the consortia that deliver these programmes, in collaboration with at least two EU Member States. 

Jean Monnet Actions

Jean Monnet actions (JMA) aim to develop EU studies worldwide. Since 1989 they have been supporting Modules, Chairs, and Centres of Excellence to promote excellence in teaching and research on the European integration process at higher education level. More information on these actions can be accessed here.

For more information, you can contact the UAE’s Erasmus National Focal Point (ENFP).

Hyperlink this factsheet: https://erasmus-networks.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2025-07/uae_erasmusplus_2024.pdf

Horizon Europe

Horizon Europe is the European Union’s research and innovation programme. The programme is structured around three main pillars, with Pillar II focusing on global challenges and European industrial competitiveness. This includes clusters like health, digital industries, climate, energy, and food, among others.

Horizon Europe promotes a global approach to research and innovation, offering opportunities for collaboration while ensuring it aligns with EU interest. However, access to EU funding is differentiated based on the association status and other criteria. GCC countries, including the UAE are encouraged to explore co-financing mechanisms and increase participation through targeted collaboration.