Travelling to Dubai from Spain: All the requirements
Travelling to Dubai from Spain? Secure entry to the country by complying with the mandatory requirements we show you in this post.
Don’t be like Pedro, a Spanish citizen who couldn’t pass Dubai’s immigration control because he didn’t know the requirements. Make sure to gather all the necessary documents before travelling and enjoy a smooth trip.
In this article, we’ll explain the entry requirements fo travelling to Dubai from Spain, including passport details, visa needs, health insurance, vaccinations, and more. We’ll also provide tips to make your stay in the UAE easier. Grab a pen and paper because we’re starting!
Tip before we start with the requirements
A good internet connection is essential when travelling abroad, and having your phone active as soon as you land in Dubai is a great advantage. This way, you can check maps, reservations, call your family, and handle any online tasks. With Holafly’s eSIM, perfect for short trips, you can set up unlimited data for only $6.90 per day.
If your stay is longer, we recommend the new Holafly Connect plans, offering monthly subscriptions starting with 10GB, 25GB, and unlimited data. You’ll be able to travel to any destination from Dubai without changing your SIM, as it’s valid for more than 170 destinations. Additionally, with the unlimited plan, you’ll have the advantage of connecting multiple devices simultaneously for €64.90 ($71) per month. This option is perfect for those who need an excellent connection for remote work.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

After our tip on staying connected in the country, let’s begin with the list of requirements for travelling to Dubai from Spain, so you won’t have any issues at the airport. Stay tuned and don’t miss anything!

1. Flight ticket to Dubai and return flight ticket to Spain
Migration controls have become stricter in Dubai, and now it’s a mandatory requirement for visitors, including tourists and those with visas, to show their return ticket. Previously, Spanish citizens with work or study visas didn’t have to present this document, but now it’s required for all visitors.
If you’re travelling with a visa and don’t know your exact return date, it’s recommended to book a return ticket with a flexible cancellation policy. For tourists staying less than 90 days, the return date must be fixed so agents can confirm your intent to return to Spain.
2. Tourist, residence or work visas for Dubai
Spanish citizens are exempt from applying for a visa if travelling for tourism purposes. In this case, the maximum allowed stay is 90 days within a 180-day period. After 180 days, you can return and stay for another 90 days. However, if you’re planning to work or study in Dubai, you must apply for a visa. Here’s a summary of the main visas for the UAE:
- Tourist Visa: Spanish tourists don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days, as mentioned earlier. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll receive a visitor card. Working in Dubai is prohibited under this status.
- Student Visa: To study in Dubai, you must apply to an educational institution. They’ll guide you through the student visa application process.
- Business Visa: Dubai hosts many entrepreneurs for business meetings. This visa is for events without remuneration, also known as a business or commercial visit visa.
- Employment Visa: If you have a job offer, your employer will apply for a work permit. This will then be linked to your visa and residence permit.
- Remote Work Visa: Dubai’s Virtual Working Program allows digital nomads working for foreign companies. This visa is valid for one year, renewable.
- Golden Visa: The Golden Visa is for long-term residents, up to 5 or 10 years. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs, investors, or artists.
3. Spanish passport
What conditions should your Spanish passport meet? One of the main requirements for travelling to Dubai from Spain is that your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. We recommend having at least six months of validity if you’re travelling for tourism. This will help avoid any issues if your stay in Dubai extends beyond your initial plan. Additionally, your passport cannot be damaged or worn out, and it must have blank pages for entry stamps.
Before your trip, check your passport and, if needed, schedule a renewal appointment online on the official website (citapreviadni.es). Book your appointment at the nearest police station.. An important note: The UAE doesn’t accept provisional passports as valid, so you cannot enter the country with this document. We also suggest carrying a photocopy of your passport along with the original as a precaution in case of loss.
5. Medical insurance
Medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for travellers with a work visa, student visa, digital nomad visa, or residence visa. When applying for these visas, one of the required steps is purchasing a medical insurance policy. The insurance should cover services such as healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Although not mandatory for Spanish tourists, the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends purchasing medical insurance for travellers to the UAE. In Dubai, healthcare is private and expensive, so having insurance is essential to avoid high costs.
6. Pass immigration control in Dubai
How can you pass the immigration control? You’ll need to present all required documents we discussed earlier. Also, be ready to answer agents’ questions about your trip clearly and accurately. Keep your passport, return tickets, visa (if applicable), and medical insurance in an easily accessible place.

More tips for travelling to Dubai
Dubai is a country with cultural customs different from Spain. Therefore, we think it’s important to provide you with some helpful tips. Although these aren’t mandatory requirements for travelling to Dubai from Spain, they’ll help you enjoy each activity in Dubai more safely.
Travel insurance for Dubai
Travel insurance offers peace of mind for your adventure. For a small fee, your luggage will be covered if lost. Some policies also cover hotel stays in case of flight delays, medical emergencies, and repatriation. It’s an investment that saves you from unexpected costs.
Driving licence in Dubai
If you plan to drive in Dubai, your Spanish driver’s license will suffice. However, we recommend obtaining an international driving permit, which is an official translation of your Spanish license. This document adds credibility with car rental companies and authorities.
Address of your accommodation
When planning your Dubai trip, we suggest booking accommodation in advance. The address can be a hotel, co-living space, Airbnb, or a friend’s or family member’s home. Although not a strict requirement for entry, showing your accommodation address during immigration control reassures authorities that you have a place to stay.
Dress code
It’s important to respect the cultural customs of Dubai to avoid penalties for non-compliance. For example, there are certain dress codes you should know before arriving in Dubai.
- Dress code for women: On the beach, avoid transparent clothing, deep necklines, and white colour. When entering a mosque, cover your legs, shoulders, and wear a headscarf. In general, women should wear clothing that covers the knees and isn’t tight.
- Dress code for men: On the beach, avoid transparency and the color white. For other activities, wear clothes that cover the knee, always with a t-shirt, and try not to show tattoos.
Displays of affection
Excessive displays of affection in Dubai are considered disrespectful, inappropriate, and can even lead to legal issues. For this reason, we recommend avoiding kisses with your partner and saving such affection for private moments. Same-sex relationships are illegal in Dubai.While tourist areas may show some tolerance, local zones remain deeply conservative.

Frequently Asked Questions about requirements for travelling to Dubai from Spain
You must carry a valid passport for the entire trip. Bring a round-trip flight ticket and the right visa if needed. If your visa type requires it, also show proof of medical insurance.
Spanish tourists staying under 90 days don’t need a visa. However, if you’re travelling for study, work, business, or long-term stay, you must apply for the proper visa.
Keep all required documents ready and easy to access. Moreover, answer the officers’ questions clearly, honestly, and politely. With organised documents, the process will be smooth and quick.
At the airport, you’ll get a visa that allows a stay of up to 90 days. If you want to stay longer, contact the embassy to request a different visa.
If you fail to meet any entry requirement, immigration will deny your access. You’ll have to return to Spain immediately. Always double-check your documents before starting your trip.
It’s not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended for your safety. Travel insurance protects you against medical emergencies, flight cancellations, and lost luggage. It helps you avoid unexpected expenses during your trip.