Sri Lanka’s free 30-day tourist ETA now covers all six GCC states, including the UAE. Effective May 25, 2026, travelers holding UAE passports — along with nationals of 39 other countries — can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) at no cost, making Sri Lanka one of the most accessible beach and culture destinations from the Gulf.
Is Sri Lanka Visa Free for UAE Residents and Citizens?
Yes — but with an important distinction. UAE citizens (Emirati passport holders) qualify for Sri Lanka’s free tourist ETA, valid for 30 days with double entry. You still need to apply online at eta.gov.lk before you travel, but there is no fee.
UAE residents who hold passports from other countries should check whether their nationality is on the 40-country free ETA list. If it is — and many are, including India, Pakistan, and several other nationalities common among UAE residents — they also get the free ETA.
This Is Not a Visa on Arrival
A common point of confusion: Sri Lanka’s free ETA is not a visa on arrival. You must apply and receive approval online before boarding your flight.
The application takes about 10 minutes, and approvals typically come through within 24 to 72 hours.
Walk-ins without a pre-approved ETA can face delays or denial at the port of entry.
Which GCC Countries Are Eligible for the Free Sri Lanka ETA?
All six GCC states are on the list. Here’s a quick reference for the Gulf countries covered under the expanded free ETA scheme, effective May 25, 2026:
| GCC Country | Free ETA Eligible |
|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | Yes |
| Saudi Arabia | Yes |
| Kuwait | Yes |
| Qatar | Yes |
| Bahrain | Yes |
| Oman | Yes |
Beyond the GCC, the full 40-country list includes India, Pakistan, China, the UK, the US, Australia, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, Turkey, Russia, and others. For the complete list, refer to our Sri Lanka ETA guide.
How to Apply for the Free Sri Lanka ETA From the UAE
The application process is the same regardless of where you’re applying from — it’s all done online through Sri Lanka’s official ETA portal.
Step-by-Step Process
- Visit the official ETA website at eta.gov.lk
- Select “Apply for an Individual” under the Tourist ETA category
- Fill in your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation information
- Submit the application — no payment is required for the 40 eligible nationalities
- Receive your ETA approval via email, typically within 24 to 72 hours
Documents You’ll Need
- A valid passport with at least six months’ validity from your date of arrival in Sri Lanka
- A confirmed return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- A valid email address to receive your ETA confirmation
ETA Validity and Extensions
The free tourist ETA is valid for 30 days from the date of your first arrival and permits double entry. This means you can leave Sri Lanka, visit another nearby destination, and return — all within the 30-day window.
If you want to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension through the Department of Immigration’s online portal. Extensions are available for up to 270 days total, but they are not free — standard extension fees apply.
What About UAE Residents on Indian, Pakistani or Filipino Passports?
This is where the expanded country list makes a real difference for the UAE’s large expat population.
Indian Passport Holders
India is on the 40-country free ETA list. If you’re an Indian national living in the UAE, you qualify for Sri Lanka’s free 30-day tourist ETA. For a detailed breakdown of India-specific entry rules and travel tips, see our Sri Lanka free visa guide for Indians.
Pakistani Passport Holders
Pakistan is also on the list. Pakistani nationals residing in the UAE can apply for the free ETA using their Pakistani passport — no need to worry about your UAE residency status for this purpose.
Filipino Passport Holders
The Philippines is not currently on the 40-country free ETA list. Filipino nationals in the UAE will still need to apply for a standard Sri Lanka ETA, which carries a processing fee. Check the official ETA portal for current fee details.
For a broader look at visa-free destinations accessible from the UAE, check our guide on visa on arrival countries for UAE residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sri Lanka visa free for UAE citizens?
Yes. UAE citizens can obtain a free 30-day tourist ETA from May 25, 2026. You must still apply online at eta.gov.lk before travel.
Do UAE residents need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
It depends on your passport nationality. If your passport country is on the 40-country free ETA list (e.g., India, Pakistan, UK, US), you get the free ETA. If not, you’ll need to pay the standard ETA fee. Your UAE residency status does not affect your ETA eligibility — it is determined by your passport.
Can I get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival from the UAE?
Sri Lanka’s system is an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), not a visa on arrival. You must apply and receive approval online before your flight. Showing up without a pre-approved ETA can result in delays or denial of entry.
How long can UAE travelers stay in Sri Lanka visa free?
The free tourist ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days with double entry. Extensions of up to 270 days total are available through Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration, but extension fees apply.
What is the difference between Sri Lanka’s ETA and an eVisa?
They are essentially the same thing for tourist purposes. The ETA is Sri Lanka’s electronic entry permit system — you apply online, receive approval via email, and present it on arrival. There is no separate “eVisa” category for short tourist stays.
Sources
- Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration — Official ETA Portal
- Sri Lanka Department of Immigration — General Information on Visa
- Newswire Sri Lanka — Sri Lanka to Offer Free Tourist ETA for 40 Countries
- Gulf News — Sri Lanka Launches Free ETA Tourist Visas
- Khaleej Times — Sri Lanka Announces Free Tourist ETA for 40 Countries
- Arabian Business — Sri Lanka Launches Free 30-Day Tourist Visas for UAE, Saudi, GCC
- Sri Lanka Department of Immigration — Visa Extension Portal
- Aviation Voice — Free Sri Lanka ETA for 40 Countries
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
