Georgia Sets New Entry Rules for UAE Visitors

Starting January 1, 2026, Georgia rolled out fresh entry rules that require all foreign tourists, including those from the UAE, to show proof of health and accident insurance at the border. These changes aim to boost visitor safety and cut down on healthcare costs for the country, affecting millions of travelers from the Gulf region who flock to Georgia for its mountains, culture, and affordable getaways.

This update comes amid a surge in tourism to Georgia, with visitor numbers climbing by over 20 percent in the past year alone. Officials say the rules will help manage the influx while ensuring everyone has coverage for emergencies. For UAE residents, who make up a big chunk of these tourists, the shift means extra planning to avoid entry denials.

Why Georgia Made These Changes

Georgia’s government pushed these rules through its Law on Tourism to protect both visitors and local resources. With tourism booming, the country saw a rise in medical incidents among foreigners, leading to unpaid bills and strained hospitals.

Experts point out that similar policies exist in places like the Schengen Area in Europe, where insurance is a must for short stays. This move could also spark more medical tourism, as Georgia promotes its affordable clinics. In 2025, the country hosted over five million tourists, and officials expect even more in 2026 with these safeguards in place.

The focus on UAE visitors stems from strong travel ties between the two nations. Direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Tbilisi run daily, making Georgia a top spot for weekend trips and longer vacations.

Recent events, like the global push for safer travel post-pandemic, influenced this decision. Many countries now demand proof of insurance, and Georgia joined the trend to align with international standards.

Key Insurance Requirements Explained

All tourists must carry health and accident insurance that covers their full stay in Georgia. The policy needs to include at least 30,000 Georgian Lari in coverage for medical care and accidents.

Border agents will check these documents on arrival. If the insurance is missing or invalid, entry gets denied, and travelers might face fines or forced returns.

Policies must be in English or Georgian, and digital copies often work if they come from trusted providers. Many UAE-based insurers now offer plans tailored for Georgia trips, starting at low costs for short visits.

Travelers should buy coverage before flying to avoid last-minute hassles. Some airlines even bundle it with tickets for convenience.

This rule applies to everyone, but families with kids or those with pre-existing conditions might need higher coverage levels for peace of mind.

Visa Rules for UAE Passport Holders

UAE citizens can still enter Georgia visa-free for up to 90 days in a 180-day period, as long as their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their stay.

However, the updates tighten things for UAE residents who are not citizens. Their UAE residence permit must be multiple-entry and valid for at least 12 months from the arrival date in Georgia.

If the permit falls short, a visa becomes necessary. This change, rolled out in mid-2025, caught some travelers off guard during the busy holiday season.

Officials designed it to ensure visitors have stable ties back home, reducing overstay risks. Data shows UAE residents make up about 15 percent of Georgia’s tourists, so this impacts a large group.

For quick checks, use Georgia’s official online tools to confirm eligibility before booking flights.

Who Needs to Apply for a Visa

Not every UAE resident qualifies for visa-free entry under the new setup. Nationals from countries without bilateral agreements with Georgia must get a visa if their UAE permit does not meet the 12-month rule.

This includes people from various Asian and African nations living in the UAE. They often need a C1 tourist visa for short stays.

To sort this out, check your nationality against Georgia’s list of visa-exempt countries. If in doubt, apply early to avoid delays.

Here is a quick overview of common visa types for affected travelers:

This table highlights options, but always verify with official sources for your specific case.

Longer stays or special cases, like students or workers, require different visas altogether.

Steps to Get a Georgia e-Visa

If visa-free is not an option, the e-Visa process is straightforward and online. Head to Georgia’s official portal, fill out the form, upload documents, and pay the fee.

Processing takes about five business days, so apply at least a week before travel. Required items include a passport photo, travel itinerary, and proof of funds.

Fees start at around 20 USD, depending on nationality. Once approved, print the e-Visa and carry it with your passport.

Many UAE residents report smooth experiences, with approvals coming faster during off-peak times.

Common pitfalls include incomplete applications or mismatched details, so double-check everything.

Tips for a Smooth Trip from UAE

Plan ahead by getting insurance from providers like those linked to major UAE banks or global firms. Compare options for the best rates.

Pack all documents in an easy-to-access spot for border checks. Arrive with a return ticket and hotel booking to show intent to leave.

• Monitor flight updates, as airlines like Flydubai and Air Arabia often share rule reminders.
• Join travel forums for real-time advice from recent visitors.
• Consider trip extensions if your plans change, but stick to the 90-day limit to avoid issues.
• Budget for extras like local SIM cards for easy communication.

These steps can turn potential headaches into a hassle-free adventure.

Georgia’s landscapes and hospitality await, but these rules ensure safer journeys for all. Share your travel stories or questions in the comments below, and pass this article along to fellow UAE travelers planning a 2026 getaway.