Antarctica visa requirements for Emirati citizens
Emirati citizens need an entry permit for Antarctica, arranged by a sponsor or tour operator.
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United Arab Emirates
ATA
Antarctica
Entry permit needed
Arranged by a sponsor or tour operator.
- Visa
- Entry permit
- Last updated
- 11 November 2026
What to do
Ask a licensed tour operator or your sponsor in Antarctica to arrange the entry permit; you usually cannot apply alone.
Wait for the permit (or its approval number) before you book flights.
Carry a printed copy and follow the route and dates it allows.
Get your Antarctica visa sorted
A visa expert checks the rules and helps you apply. No payment now.
Ways into Antarctica
No tourist visa needed. Your expedition still needs permission.
Visa not requiredTourist expedition visitTourists can visit without a tourist visa on an expedition with the required permission.
- Fee
- Free
How to apply
- Ask your operator to confirm your expedition has permission.
- Check entry rules for every country on your route.
- Check transit rules for your outward and return trips.
- No stay limit for all Antarctica is published.
- Antarctica requires no vaccines; countries on your route may.
Sources (5)Last updated 11 November 2026
- Antarctic Treaty Secretariat: National Competent Authorities
- U.S. Department of State: Antarctica travel and entry guidance
- UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office: Visiting Antarctica
- India's National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research: Indian Antarctic Environmental Protection Rules, 2023
- Australian Antarctic Program: Tourism frequently asked questions
Coming from United Arab Emirates
- Time−7h
- DrivingOn the rightSame as home
- EmergencyMcMurdo Station: 911 (fire and medical emergency dispatch) police
Planning your Antarctica trip
Best time to go: November to February is the main summer visiting season, when ships can reach coastal areas.
- Glaciers and icebergsSee enormous glaciers breaking into the sea and icebergs the size of cities.
- Penguin coloniesCoastal colonies are a major attraction. Close viewing depends on having a safe landing beach nearby.
- Lemaire ChannelShips pass between cliffs and towering ice through waters where whales live. Icebergs sometimes block the route.
- Deception IslandThis active volcano has a flooded crater forming a sheltered harbour. Sights include chinstrap penguins, hot springs and old whaling remains.
Scams to watch for in Antarctica
About Antarctica
Antarctica is the southernmost continent, governed by treaty rather than by any single state.
- Time zone
- 8 time zones
- Cars drive on the
- right side
- Calling code
- +672
Other Asia passports
Going to Antarctica
Easier trips nearby
Places close to Antarctica with simpler entry for you.
Questions
Do emirati citizens need a visa for Antarctica?
Emirati citizens need an entry permit for Antarctica, arranged by a sponsor or tour operator.
Does a US, UK or Schengen visa help emirati citizens enter Antarctica?
We have no record of Antarctica relaxing its rules for emirati citizens who hold another country's visa. Check with the embassy before you rely on one.
Do other Asia passports get easier entry to Antarctica?
None of the 2 other Asia passports we compared enter without applying first.
Which countries near Antarctica are easier for emirati citizens?
Albania, Andorra, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, and 3 more let emirati citizens in without applying before travel.
What should I carry to Antarctica?
Ask a licensed tour operator or your sponsor in Antarctica to arrange the entry permit; you usually cannot apply alone. Wait for the permit (or its approval number) before you book flights.
How strong is the United Arab Emirates passport?
It ranks #1 and reaches 169 destinations without applying ahead.
Reviewed by @snuck