Plan · Visa & entry
China visa for United Arab Emirates citizens
UAE passport holders are eligible for 30-day visa-free entry to mainland China as of 2024. Hong Kong 30 days visa-free.
Current status (verified May 2026)
UAE ordinary passport holders are eligible for the 30-day visa-free entry to mainland China for tourism, business, family visit or transit. The UAE was included in the 2024 expansion of China's visa-free programme, reflecting the strong bilateral trade and investment relationship.
What you need at the border
- Passport valid at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
- Onward ticket.
- Hotel reservation or address.
- Digital arrival declaration.
Trade and investment context
The UAE — particularly Dubai — has become a major hub for China–Middle East trade, logistics, and financial flows. Business travel is substantial, and the 30-day visa-free window covers trade fair visits, meetings, and commercial due diligence.
Scope
Tourism, business meetings, family visits. Tibet requires the Tibet Travel Permit. Stays beyond 30 days need an L visa from the Chinese Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate-General in Dubai.
Hong Kong and Macau
UAE passport-holders are visa-free for Hong Kong (30 days). Macau entry conditions — verify before travel.
Practical notes
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have extensive direct flight connections to Chinese cities. Emirates, Etihad, and Chinese carriers operate multiple daily routes to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and beyond. Travel times of 7–9 hours make this one of the more convenient intercontinental corridors.
Embassy: Embassy in Abu Dhabi; consulate-general in Dubai