Flying To The UK From Dubai in 2026? There’s a New Rule You Can’t Ignore
A digital travel permit is about to become mandatory, and airlines will enforce it.
If London, Manchester or Edinburgh is on your 2026 travel list, there’s an important update you need to know before you book your next flight: fortunately we’re here to give you the Insider scoop.
From Wednesday 26 February 2026, travellers flying from Dubai to the UK will need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in order to board their flight, even if they normally travel visa-free.
Emirates has already issued a notice to passengers confirming the change, and it won’t be optional. No ETA, no travel.
If you want to fly back to the UK with ease, make sure you know the latest updates.
What is a UK ETA?
A UK Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital travel permit required for visitors who do not need a visa to enter the UK for short stays.
It allows travel for:
• Tourism
• Family visits
• Short business trips
• Stays of up to six months
The system is part of the UK’s shift to fully digital border control, replacing physical entry stamps and paper documents with online approvals and eVisas.
Who needs one?
You’ll need a UK ETA if you:
• Travel on a non-UK passport
• Do not normally require a visa for short UK visits
You don’t need an ETA if you:
• Hold a British or Irish passport
• Already have UK residency, a work visa or a student visa
How much does it cost?
The ETA costs £16 (around AED 80) per person and covers multiple visits, with stays of up to six months each time.
Every traveller needs their own ETA — including babies and children — but families can apply together.
You’ll be asked to provide:
• Your nationality
• Your reason for travel
• Passport details
Applications are completed online.
The UK is an extremely popular travel destination from Dubai with 140 flights per week.
What about UK residents and long-term visa holders?
If you currently prove your UK status with a physical document — such as a biometric residence card, permit or passport stamp — you’ll now need to switch to the UK’s eVisa system.
This applies if you have:
• A biometric residence permit (even if expired)
• Indefinite Leave to Remain shown by a passport stamp
You must create a UK Visas & Immigration account and link your passport to your digital eVisa before travelling.
If your passport isn’t linked, airlines may refuse boarding.
Why this matters in Dubai
The UK is one of the most travelled-to destinations for UAE residents. Emirates alone operates over 140 weekly flights to cities across Britain, including London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh.
With around 240,000 British expats living in the UAE, travel between Dubai and the UK is constant, but while British passport holders won’t be affected, everyone else now needs this extra step before flying.
If you’re flying from Dubai to the UK in 2026, make sure UK ETA is on your checklist.
