The general populace still have that lingering impression about the mention of Middle East since the bombing that happened several years ago. Despite the image it has brought upon these lands, a few nations have stood against such odds and proven that such matters will not hinder their progress. One of these nations is the UAE and has been declared the safest city of the Middle East in 2011 Mercer Quality of Living Index. Before jumping to conclusions, book yourself a flight to Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE and witness for yourself that the aforementioned claim is not an exaggeration at all.
Getting to Abu Dhabi, you will need to know a few facts about getting there first. If you are a citizen in one of these countries such as Australia, Austria, Andorra, Bulgaria, Belgium, Brunei, Cyprus, Croatia, Canada, Czech Republic, Germany, France, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Hong Kong, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Latvia, Japan, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Monaco, Malta, Malaysia, Norway, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Singapore, San Marino, Switzerland, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, the Vatican, United States and United Kingdom, you can get your entry visa all free of charge upon arrival at the Abu Dhabi International Airport. Citizens holding GCC no longer requires visa to enter the country.
Citizens of countries that are not mentioned will need to apply for a Visit, Transit or Tourist Visa before they go on a trip to Abu Dhabi. If you choose to fly with Etihad Airways, your visit visa will be arranged upon your request. If your trip is booked through a travel agency, they can have your visa arranged as well. Hotels holding between 3 to 5 star grades can assist their guests applying for visa. It is also best for you to wait for the approval of your visa before you get on to your trip, otherwise the country will not hold any responsibility for your visa being declined upon entry.
To be extra safe, you can go to the nearest UAE embassy where you live if you wish to apply for a visa. This route is taken mostly by those who do not prefer to get their trip through a travel agency. Be reminded that there will be an eye scan requirement at the airport. If you have any more questions regarding visa application to Abu Dhabi, visit their official government website or call their contact center inside the country.