Key Takeaways

• Speculations that the United Arab Emirates has suspended visas for Jordanians are unfounded; officials confirm the visa system will soon be fully operational.
• Jordanian tourism offices report that UAE visa applications for citizens are being rejected pending authorities’ clarification.
• The UAE has introduced stricter requirements for visitor visas this year, including proof of funds and hotel bookings.

Recent reports suggesting that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended entry visas for Jordanians have caused concern among travelers.

However, officials have confirmed that these claims are unfounded, assuring that the UAE remains open to Jordanian visitors, with the visa system expected to be fully operational soon, VisaGuide.World reports.

Technical Glitch in UAE Visa System Causes Confusion for Travelers

The confusion stems from a technical failure in the UAE’s visa system, temporarily affecting visa processing. This glitch led to misunderstandings and subsequent reporting.

Authorities assured the public that the situation is under control and delays in issuing visas are being addressed. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and verify information before making travel decisions.

All Jordanian citizens require a visa to enter the UAE, and since August 2015, the UAE has offered an online visa service, allowing applicants worldwide to apply digitally. The eVisa system, which can be easily accessed through platforms such as iVisa, will enable travelers to stay in the UAE for a maximum of 30 days, with the visa valid for 60 days from the date of issue.

UAE Tightens Entry Regulations

In addition, this year, the Department of Immigration in the United Arab Emirates has recently strengthened controls at airports, implementing new guidelines to identify travelers arriving on visitor visas to work. This marks the first time such strict measures have been imposed on international visitors.

Airlines are now enforcing strict guidelines, requiring passengers on visiting visas to present hotel booking confirmations and proof of at least 5,000 dirhams (roughly $1,360) to cover their expenses during their stay. Failure to meet these new requirements could result in airlines facing fines of up to 5,000 dirhams per passenger for insufficient documentation.

This year, the UAE has also announced that citizens from 87 countries can now enter the country without a pre-entry visa. Citizens from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries already enjoy visa-free travel to the UAE, allowing them to bypass pre-entry visa requirements entirely. However, individuals from countries not included in the visa exemption list must secure a prior entry permit from a local sponsor before traveling to the UAE.