Passport validity rules for United Arab Emirates
The UAE — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah — enforces the 6-month passport rule strictly. Emirates and Etihad won't even let you check in without it.
6 months beyond entry. 6 months beyond entry.
Airlines flying to United Arab Emirates check your passport against the 6-month rule the moment you check in. Even if the country itself would let you in, the airline won't board you — no refund, ticket marked used. Here's what actually happens →
Can I travel to United Arab Emirates?
6 months beyond entry.
UAE entry: what Emirates and Etihad actually check
The United Arab Emirates requires six months' validity on arrival, and both Dubai and Abu Dhabi immigration enforce it without exception. What's worth knowing is that Emirates and Etihad, being the home carriers, run their validity checks harder than most — they scan your passport at bag drop, at gate boarding, and again for onward connections, and any of those checks will fail you at under six months.
If you're transiting through Dubai for more than 24 hours or leaving the airport on a Connect visa, the six-month rule applies to you the same as an arriving passenger. Airside transits under 24 hours technically don't need to meet the rule, but again, Emirates' automated systems don't distinguish airside from landside — practically, you need six months to board an Emirates flight terminating or connecting through DXB.
UAE visas on arrival are issued to UK, US, EU, Australian and many other nationalities for stays of 30 or 90 days depending on nationality. The visa validity is separate from the passport rule; both must be satisfied.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need 6 months on my passport for Dubai or the UAE?
- Yes. The UAE requires your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry. This applies to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and all emirates.
- Do UK citizens need a visa for the UAE?
- No. UK citizens get a free 30-day visit visa on arrival, extendable for another 30 days. US, EU and most Western passport holders also qualify.
- What if my passport has less than 6 months for Dubai?
- Emirates and other airlines will deny boarding at check-in. UAE immigration strictly enforces the rule on arrival even if you somehow board.
- Does the 6-month rule apply to transit through Dubai?
- If you stay airside on a short connection, no. If you leave the airport (including for a free city tour), the 6-month rule applies.
Related reading
All guides →Why countries enforce it and how to tell if you meet it.
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