🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
Thai visas & work permits for Emirati citizens
Emirati citizens can visit Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism from 15 September 2026. Families often choose the Thailand Privilege programme or the LTR for long stays, and medical visitors may use the DTV. The UAE is not an Apostille Convention party, so legalisation continues.
Written by the Thai Legal & Immigration legal team · Last reviewed · Editorial policy
Can Emirati citizens enter Thailand without a visa?
30-day visa exemption (tourism)
From 15 September 2026 the 60-day scheme was revoked; this passport is on the 30-day tourism list. Visa-exempt entries over land are limited to twice per calendar year. Work, study and long stays need the proper visa.
Which Thai visa is best for Emirati citizens?
- Privilege / Elite Visa Advisory
Popular with families wanting long, flexible stays.
- Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR)
For wealthy global citizens.
- Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
Covers medical treatment as a soft-power activity.
- Education Visa (Non-ED)
For students.
Work permits for Emirati nationals
Few Emirati residents work in Thailand; investors working in their own company need a work permit.
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Do documents from United Arab Emirates need an apostille or legalisation?
As of our last check, the United Arab Emirates is not a party to the Apostille Convention, so its documents still need authentication and legalisation at a Thai embassy or representative office, before and after 28 February 2027.
Read our apostille guideCommon mistakes we see
- Documents in Arabic without certified translation.
- Choosing a membership programme without comparing LTR.
- Property purchases without due diligence.
Counsel's note
We compare long-stay options for the whole family and review property purchases before signing.
Service languages: English; Arabic documents with translation.
Frequently asked
Can I stay long-term for medical treatment?
Do UAE documents need legalisation?
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Sources & references
- Revision of Thailand's Visa Exemption and VoA Schemes (Government PR Dept., 4 Sep 2026) — checked 2026-11-03
- MFA summary chart – visa exemption & VoA, effective 15 Sep 2026 — checked 2026-11-03
- Thai e-Visa official portal — checked 2026-11-03
- HCCH Apostille Convention status table — checked 2026-11-03
General information only, not legal advice. Entry rules change; always confirm with the official sources above. Immigration decisions rest with the Thai authorities.
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