Foreigners residing in the UAE must apply for a visa to visit Schengen countries. Nowadays, the processing time for such visas has been significantly reduced, allowing you to apply for a visa in less than two weeks. Find out more about the simplified procedure for obtaining Schengen visas for UAE residents, the list of documents and more

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Expats living in the UAE can now benefit from a fast Schengen visa process and reduced airfares.

What exactly will change for foreigners? Details in our material.

The procedure for obtaining Schengen visas for residents of the UAE is simplified

Citizens of the UAE are exempt from visa requirements and can visit European countries only on the basis of a foreign passport. At the same time, foreigners living in the Emirates on the basis of a residence permit must apply for a visa to travel to Schengen countries.

Previously, the visa application procedure took an average of 1-2 months. From now on, European embassies will open special areas for processing permits in the UAE, which will simplify the visa application procedure, it is predicted that a Schengen visa can be obtained in just 2 weeks.

However, despite the shortened visa processing time, UAE residents are still advised to make an appointment for visa processing in advance to avoid possible delays, especially during the peak travel season.

Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen zone is a European space in which border controls between states have been abolished. A Schengen visa gives the right to visit any country that has joined the agreement, a total of 27 countries: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein , Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Approximate list of documents for obtaining a tourist Schengen visa

When applying for a tourist Schengen visa, the following documents must be submitted:

1. Visa application form (filled and signed).

2. Two recent photos taken within the last three months, in accordance with the Schengen visa criteria.

3. A valid passport with at least three free pages (not older than ten years and valid for at least three months after your planned stay in Schengen).

4. Reservation of round-trip flights or route.

5. Health insurance policy.

6. Confirmation of residence (hotel reservation, apartment rental agreement, etc.).

7. Confirmation of financial capabilities (bank statement, salary certificate, etc.).

8. Travel itinerary – a description of your trip to Europe, the purpose of the trip, which places you intend to visit in Europe, the time frame and all personal data.

The editors of Visit World recommend using the Tourist Guide for any EU country for a comfortable and safe trip.

The guide is a detailed written document that contains basic advice on obtaining a visa, crossing the border, getting a job, citizenship, and much more. More details at the link.

Reduced prices for flights to Europe from the UAE

In addition to the shortening of the procedure for obtaining Schengen visas, a pleasant bonus was the decrease in the cost of air tickets due to the high level of competition between air carriers. Currently, the cost of a ticket from the UAE to the most popular European capitals is less than $300.

For example, if in December 2023 an economy class ticket on the Dubai-Paris route cost approximately $452.55, then in January 2024 you can buy a ticket from the low-cost airline Wizz Air for $143 or fly through Emirates Airline for $271.

A simplified visa application procedure and reduced airfares encourage expats in the UAE to plan European vacations.

Where to go in Europe in the winter of 2024?

The most popular European destinations for travelers from the UAE in 2023 were the following European countries: Spain, Switzerland, Italy, France and Germany.

We have prepared for you the top 5 cities that you can visit with a Schengen visa in the winter of 2024:

- Athens, Greece

The weather in January is winter even on the Greek islands. In the northern regions, the average temperature varies from + 3°C to + 9°C, in the southern regions - from + 11°C to + 18°C. However, there are many cultural monuments here, including the Acropolis and the Parthenon.

- Barcelona, Spain

La Rambla, Barcelona's most famous street, attracts travelers with delicious food and numerous souvenir shops. Enjoy a flamenco show and be sure to try local snacks - tapas. Undoubtedly, Gaudi's charming and mysterious architecture is the hallmark of the city.

- Paris, France

Every tourist who visits Paris must come to enjoy the beauty of the main attraction of the country - the Eiffel Tower. Another highlight of French culture is its fantastic cuisine. Therefore, when traveling in Paris, be sure to visit numerous local restaurants.

- Vienna, Austria

The capital of Austria is famous for its picturesque landscapes, museums and music. Therefore, while exploring the city, be sure to visit a classical music show.

- Rome, Italy

Rome occupies a special place among European capitals. It is a city-symbol, a city-primordial source, where the foundations of Western civilization were laid. That is why most tourists visit numerous historical sights here: the Colosseum, St. Peter's Cathedral, the Pantheon, the Angelus Castle and the Appian Way.

Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.