Travelling to Dubai (UAE) from Zimbabwe
Complete visa and travel guide for Zimbabweans visiting the UAE
e-Visa RequiredVisa required: Zimbabweans CANNOT get a visa on arrival in Dubai. You must arrange an e-Visa or sponsor visa before travel.
UAE Visa Options
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost (approx) | Processing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist e-Visa (30 days) | 30 days | $80-100 | 5-10 days |
| Tourist e-Visa (60 days) | 60 days | $120-150 | 5-10 days |
| Long-term Visit (90 days) | 90 days | $200-300 | 7-14 days |
| Transit Visa | 48-96 hours | $30-50 | 3-5 days |
| Sponsor/Hotel Visa | Varies | $100-200 | 3-7 days |
How to Apply for a UAE e-Visa
Option 1: Through ICP Portal (Direct)
- Visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) website
- Create an account and select visa type
- Upload required documents (passport scan, photo, flight booking)
- Pay the visa fee online
- Receive visa electronically within 5-10 days
Option 2: Through Airlines
Emirates, Flydubai, and Etihad can arrange visas for ticket holders. Apply when booking your flight.
Option 3: Through Hotels
Many Dubai hotels (especially 4-5 star) offer visa arrangement services for confirmed guests.
Option 4: Through a UAE Sponsor
A UAE resident or company can sponsor your visit visa. Common for business trips or visiting family.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Confirmed return flight booking
- Hotel reservation
- Proof of funds (bank statement)
- Travel insurance
Getting There
| Route | Airline | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harare - Dubai (direct via JNB) | Emirates | ~12 hours | Connect in Johannesburg |
| Via Addis Ababa | Ethiopian Airlines | ~10 hours | Competitive fares |
| Via Nairobi | Kenya Airways / flydubai | ~10 hours | Good connections |
Top Attractions in Dubai
Burj Khalifa
World's tallest building. Observation deck tickets from AED 150.
Dubai Mall
World's largest mall. Shopping, aquarium, ice rink, fountain show.
Palm Jumeirah
Iconic palm-shaped island. Atlantis resort, beaches.
Desert Safari
Dune bashing, camel riding, BBQ dinner. From AED 150-250.
Gold & Spice Souks
Traditional markets in Deira. Bargaining expected.
Abu Dhabi (Day Trip)
Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island. 1.5 hours drive.
Practical Tips
- Currency: UAE Dirham (AED). ~$1 = AED 3.67. Fixed exchange rate to USD. Cards widely accepted.
- Best time: October to April (cooler, 20-30C). Avoid June-September (40C+).
- Dress code: Conservative dress in public areas. Swimwear only at beaches and pools. Cover shoulders and knees in malls.
- Alcohol: Available in licensed hotels and restaurants only. Do not drink in public.
- Ramadan: During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight is prohibited. Plan accordingly.
- Photography: Do not photograph people (especially women) without permission. No photos of government buildings.
- Metro: Dubai Metro is cheap and efficient. Gold class available. Women-only carriages.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but 10% is appreciated at restaurants.
FAQ
Yes, Zimbabwean citizens need an e-Visa or sponsor visa. It cannot be obtained on arrival. Apply at least 2-4 weeks before travel through the ICP portal, airlines, hotels, or a UAE sponsor.
A 30-day tourist visa costs approximately $80-100 (AED 300-350) when applied directly. Through hotels or agencies the cost may be $100-200. A transit visa (48-96 hours) costs $30-50.
No. Zimbabweans cannot get a visa on arrival in Dubai. A pre-arranged e-Visa or sponsor visa is mandatory. Do not attempt to travel without a confirmed visa or you will be denied boarding.
Quick Info
- Visa: e-Visa required
- Stay: 30-90 days
- Currency: AED (Dirham)
- Language: Arabic, English
- Drive: Right side