South Korea has become a fast-growing destination for UAE residents, and whether you need a visa to visit depends on your passport nationality rather than your UAE residence status. Some nationalities can travel visa-free under Korea's current entry rules, while others must apply for a visa at the embassy before flying.
Last checked: 23 September 2026. Visa rules for South Korea are set by the Korean government and can change without notice — always confirm the current requirement for your passport on the official K-ETA portal or with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Abu Dhabi before you book flights.
Do UAE residents need a visa for South Korea?
UAE nationals can enter South Korea visa-free for up to 30 days under a bilateral agreement, with no K-ETA or visa required. Citizens of visa-waiver countries such as the US, UK, EU member states, Australia, Canada, Japan and Singapore typically enter visa-free for stays ranging from 30 to 180 days depending on nationality — and Korea has temporarily waived the K-ETA requirement for citizens of 22 visa-waiver countries until 31 December 2026 as part of its Visit Korea Year promotion, though registering anyway is a sensible precaution in case the rules change again.
Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Filipino, Sri Lankan, Egyptian and several other nationalities are not covered by the visa waiver and must obtain a South Korea visa in advance through the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Abu Dhabi before travelling.
Visa types and stay durations
- Tourist visa, single entry (C-3-9) — up to 90 days, roughly 5–15 working days to process
- Tourist visa, multiple entry (C-3-9) — up to 30 days per entry, roughly 7–10 working days to process
- Business visa (C-3-1) — up to 90 days, roughly 7–15 working days to process
- Family visit visa (C-3-8) — up to 90 days, roughly 10–20 working days to process
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank pages
- A recent passport-style photo (35mm x 45mm)
- Copies of your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID
- Confirmed return flight booking
- Hotel reservations for your stay
- A detailed day-by-day itinerary
- Bank statements from the last 6 months showing adequate funds
- A salary certificate and NOC from your employer, or a trade licence if self-employed
Fees
South Korea visa fees for UAE-based applicants change periodically, so rather than quoting a figure that may be out of date, it's best to confirm the current fee for your nationality and visa type directly with the embassy or a visa services provider before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do UAE nationals need a K-ETA or visa for South Korea?
No. UAE nationals can enter visa-free for up to 30 days under a bilateral agreement, with no K-ETA or visa required.
I hold an Indian passport and live in the UAE — do I need a South Korea visa?
Yes. Indian passport holders need a South Korea visa arranged in advance through the embassy, regardless of how long they've lived in the UAE.
Is K-ETA still required for visa-waiver nationalities?
It's been temporarily waived for citizens of 22 visa-waiver countries until 31 December 2026, but registering anyway is a sensible precaution since the rule could change again.
Do Filipino passport holders need a visa for South Korea?
Yes. Filipino passport holders are not covered by Korea's visa waiver and need a visa arranged through the embassy before travelling.
Not sure which visa category applies to your passport, or want help getting your South Korea visa application right the first time? Use our visa finder, browse our other destination guides, or contact VisaFirst and we'll confirm the current requirement for your nationality.