Navigating the Sands: Egypt Visa Requirements for Ukrainian and Emirati Citizens

Egypt, with its timeless monuments, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, remains a popular destination for travelers worldwide.¹ However, understanding the specific visa requirements for different nationalities is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free journey. This article delves into the Egypt visa for Ukrainian citizensitizens, outlining the current regulations and application processes.

Egypt Visa for Ukrainian Citizens

As of May 10, 2025, Ukrainian citizens do require a visa to enter Egypt for tourism purposes.² However, the Egyptian government offers a convenient option for obtaining this visa either online as an e-Visa or upon arrival at Egyptian airports.³

Visa Options for Ukrainian Citizens:

• Visa on Arrival: Ukrainian citizens can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at any Egyptian port of entry, including international airports.⁴ This visa is typically valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 30 days for tourism purposes. When opting for a visa on arrival, it is advisable to have USD $25 in cash for the visa fee and be prepared for potential queues at immigration. You will also need to fill out a migration card upon arrival.
• E-Visa (Electronic Visa): Alternatively, Ukrainian citizens can apply for an e-Visa online before their travel date.⁵ This process involves completing an online application form, uploading a scanned copy of their passport (valid for at least six months from the date of arrival), and a recent passport-sized photograph.⁶ A valid credit or debit card is required to pay the online visa fee.⁷ There are two types of e-Visas available: Single-entry e-Visa: Valid for a 30-day stay within a 90-day period from the date of issue. This allows one entry into Egypt for tourism or business. The consular fee for a single-entry e-Visa is typically around USD $25.
• Multiple-entry e-Visa: Valid for multiple entries within a 180-day period from the date of issue, with each stay not exceeding 30 days.⁸ This option is suitable for travelers planning to enter and exit Egypt multiple times. The consular fee for a multiple-entry e-Visa is approximately USD $60.

It is recommended to apply for the e-Visa at least four days before the intended travel date to allow sufficient processing time. Once approved, the e-Visa will be sent via email and should be printed out and presented to the Egyptian authorities upon arrival along with a valid passport.

Special Considerations for Sinai Peninsula:

For Ukrainian citizens planning to visit only the Sinai Peninsula (Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Taba, Nuweiba, Ras Sidr, St. Catherine, and El-Tur), a free "Sinai Only" visa can be obtained upon arrival at the airport. This permit allows a stay of up to 15 days and is non-renewable. However, holders of this visa are restricted from traveling outside the Sinai region. If you intend to explore other parts of Egypt, a regular visa is required.

Required Documents for Ukrainian Citizens:

Regardless of the visa application method, Ukrainian citizens should ensure they have the following:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of arrival in Egypt and at least two blank pages.
• A printed copy of the e-Visa approval (if applicable).
• Travel insurance is recommended.
• Flight itinerary.
• Confirmation of hotel reservation.
• Proof of sufficient funds for the trip.

Egypt Visa for Emirati Citizens

The visa regulations for Emirati citizens differ significantly. As of May 10, 2025, Emirati citizens enjoy visa-free access to Egypt for a stay of up to 90 days.

Visa-Free Entry for Emirati Citizens:

Nationals of the United Arab Emirates holding a valid passport do not require a visa to enter Egypt for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days. This visa-free privilege allows for multiple entries within the 90-day period.

E-Visa Option for Emirati Citizens (Optional):

Although Emirati citizens are exempt from visa requirements for short stays, they can still opt to apply for an e-Visa online if they prefer. The e-Visa for Emirati citizens is available as both a single-entry (30-day stay within 90 days of issue) and a multiple-entry (multiple entries within 180 days of issue, with each stay up to 30 days) permit.

Required Documents for Emirati Citizens (for Visa-Free Entry):

While a visa is not required, Emirati citizens traveling to Egypt should carry the following:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of arrival in Egypt.
• A confirmed return flight ticket.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay.

E-Visa Requirements for Emirati Citizens (if applying):

If an Emirati citizen chooses to apply for an e-Visa, the requirements are similar to those for Ukrainian citizens:

• A scanned copy of a valid passport (at least six months validity).
• A recent passport-sized photograph.
• A valid email address.
• A credit or debit card for online payment.
• Information about their accommodation in Egypt.

Conclusion:

In summary, while Ukrainian citizens need to obtain a visa to visit Egypt, they have the convenience of applying online or getting a visa upon arrival. Emirati citizens, on the other hand, benefit from visa-free entry for tourism stays of up to 90 days. It is always recommended that travelers check the latest visa regulations with the official Egyptian embassy or consulate in their respective countries before planning their trip, as these requirements can be subject to change. Ensuring all necessary documents are in order will pave the way for a memorable and enjoyable experience exploring the wonders of Egypt.