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UAE passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam. Learn how to apply for the 90-day eVisa online, including direct flight options from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Do UAE Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes. The United Arab Emirates is not on Vietnam's visa exemption list. All Emirati passport holders must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam.
The standard option for UAE residents and citizens is the Vietnam eVisa, which allows stays of up to 90 days with single or multiple-entry options. The process is completed online via the National Web Portal on Immigration, eliminating the need to visit a physical embassy.
The eVisa is officially accepted at 83 designated international entry ports (including 17 airports, 27 land borders, and 39 seaports).
It is recommended to apply for the eVisa at least 1 to 2 weeks before the intended flight to allow for standard processing times. Direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi facilitate direct entry into Vietnam.
Visa Options for UAE Travelers
Here is a comparison of visa options available to UAE passport holders:
| Option | Validity | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVisa (Single Entry) | Up to 90 days | $25 USD (~92 AED) | Standard holidays |
| eVisa (Multiple Entry) | Up to 90 days | $50 USD (~184 AED) | Side trips to neighboring countries |
| Embassy Visa (Abu Dhabi) | Up to 90 days | Varies (~350+ AED) | Complex/special travel purposes |
UAE eVisa Requirements
To apply for an eVisa online, applicants must provide the following documents:
- A UAE passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, with at least 2 blank pages
- A clear, color digital scan of the passport's biographical page (JPEG format)
- A recent passport-style portrait photo (white background, no glasses, JPEG format)
- An active email address to receive the visa outcome
- A credit or debit card for the non-refundable government fee
For government photo requirements and application steps, consult the how to apply step-by-step guide.
Direct Flights: UAE → Vietnam
The UAE maintains direct air connectivity with Vietnam through regular scheduled flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi:
- Emirates: Direct flights from Dubai (DXB) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Hanoi (HAN) — flight time is approximately 6 to 7 hours
- Etihad Airways: Direct flights from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Hanoi (HAN) — flight time is approximately 7 hours
- Additional seasonal or transit services may be available depending on the carrier and schedule
Direct flight routes between the UAE and major Vietnamese hubs facilitate entry without requiring transit through a third country.
Key Destinations in Vietnam
Common regions visited by international travelers include:
- Hanoi & Sapa — Northern cultural centers and mountainous regions
- Ha Long Bay — UNESCO World Heritage site known for its marine landscape
- Da Nang & Hoi An — Central coastal areas featuring historical architecture
- Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta — Southern commercial hub and agricultural river systems
- Phu Quoc — Southern island known for coastal resorts
Tips for UAE Travelers
Practical information for UAE travelers to Vietnam:
- Currency: The UAE Dirham (AED) is not widely accepted. Travelers should carry USD or exchange to Vietnamese Dong (VND). 1 AED is approximately 7,170 VND.
- Time Zone: Vietnam operates on Indochina Time (ICT), GMT+7, which is 3 hours ahead of UAE time (GMT+4).
- Electricity: Vietnam uses 220V electricity with Type A, C, and F plugs. As the UAE typically uses Type G (British-style) plugs, a universal adapter is necessary.
- Dietary Accommodations: Select halal dining options are available in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as in areas with established Cham Muslim communities in Central Vietnam.
- Consular Support: The Embassy of Vietnam in the UAE is located at Villa 147, Salama Bint Butti Street (Street 23), Al Mushrif Area, Abu Dhabi. Phone: +971 2 449 6710. The Embassy of the UAE is located in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Travelers are advised to apply online for their eVisa prior to confirming non-refundable flight bookings.