Travellers from the UAE heading to the UK will soon face increased visa fees. Starting April 9, 2025, visa costs will rise by up to 10%. Those planning a trip should prepare for these higher expenses.
The UK government has confirmed the new visa prices. A six-month visit visa will now cost £127, up from £115. The two-year visa fee will increase by £43, making it £475. A five-year visa will go up by £77, bringing the total to £848. The 10-year visa will see a £96 hike, reaching £1,059.
For Emiratis, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) remains an alternative. This allows multiple visits to the UK for up to six months per trip. Currently, an ETA costs £10, but from April 9, 2025, the price will rise to £16.
Many UAE residents travel to the UK for tourism, study, and medical treatment. Despite the popularity of Eastern Europe and CIS countries, the UK remains a top destination. Other Gulf countries also send a large number of visitors to the UK every year.
The UK government is focusing on attracting more tourists. VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates emphasized that tourism is highly competitive. She noted that the UK is promoting itself in key markets, including Australia, the US, and the Gulf region. The goal is to reach 50 million annual visitors by 2030.
New visa fees will apply to travellers from different countries. VisitBritain expects 43.4 million visitors in 2025, a 5% increase from 2024. Spending by tourists is projected to reach £33.7 billion, up 7% from the previous year.
Additional visa fees will also rise. Academic and private medical treatment visas will now cost £220, an increase of £20. The direct airside transit fee will go up by £4 to £39.
