A Big Change Arriving in 2026
Planning a London getaway, a family reunion, or a short city escape across the UK? Travellers departing from Abu Dhabi need to prepare for a major change that will redefine how they enter the United Kingdom. A new digital travel requirement is being introduced, and it will apply to thousands of UAE-based passengers who previously travelled visa-free.
From 26 February 2026, the UK will require eligible visitors from the UAE, including Abu Dhabi travellers, to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before boarding their flight. This update marks a significant shift in the UK’s border control strategy and reflects a broader move towards fully digital immigration systems.
While the process is designed to be simple and fast, failing to comply could mean denied boarding or entry refusal. For frequent flyers, families, and business travellers, understanding the details early will help avoid last-minute disruptions.
What Is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
Electronic Travel Authorisation is a digital permission that allows visa-exempt nationals to travel to the UK for short stays. Instead of applying for a traditional visa, eligible travellers must complete an online application and receive approval before travelling.
The ETA is not a visa. It is a pre-travel clearance that confirms a traveller meets entry requirements for short-term visits of up to six months. Similar systems already exist in other countries, and the UK is now adopting this approach to strengthen border security while keeping travel efficient.
The ETA will be digitally linked to the traveller’s passport, removing the need for physical paperwork at the border.
Who Needs to Apply for the UK ETA?
From the February 2026 rollout, travellers flying from Abu Dhabi who do not currently require a visa for short UK stays must apply for an ETA. This includes visitors travelling for:
Tourism and holidays
Business meetings or conferences
Family and friend visits
Short-term study or permitted activities
Each traveller must have their own ETA, including infants and children. However, families can submit applications together in one session, making the process more manageable for parents.
The ETA allows multiple trips to the UK during its validity period, provided each stay does not exceed six months.
How Much Does the UK ETA Cost?
The application fee for the UK ETA is £16, which is approximately AED 80. This fee applies per traveller and must be paid online at the time of application.
While this introduces an additional cost for UAE-based travellers, the ETA remains significantly cheaper and faster than applying for a full visitor visa.
What Information Is Required for the Application?
Applicants will need to provide basic personal and travel information. This includes:
Nationality
Passport details
Reason for travel to the UK
Security and eligibility questions
The entire process is designed to be completed online, with most approvals expected quickly. Travellers are strongly advised to apply well before their departure date to avoid unexpected delays.
The UK’s Shift to Digital Immigration Systems
The introduction of ETA is part of a wider transformation of the UK’s immigration framework. The government is moving away from physical immigration documents and replacing them with eVisas linked to online immigration accounts.
Travellers who already hold UK visas but still rely on physical documents must take action. This includes anyone using:
Paper-based visa documents
Expired biometric residence permits or cards
These travellers are required to create a UK Visas and Immigration online account and switch to an eVisa to avoid future travel issues.
Who Does Not Need an ETA?
Not all travellers will be affected by the new rule. The following individuals are exempt from the ETA requirement:
Holders of British passports
Holders of Irish passports
Travellers who already have a valid UK visa
However, even visa holders must ensure their immigration status is digitally updated. Those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) who rely on passport stamps must apply for a free No Time Limit update to access an eVisa.
If an eVisa holder plans to travel using a different passport, that passport must be linked to their UK immigration account before departure.
What This Means for Abu Dhabi Travellers
The UK remains one of the most popular destinations for residents of Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. With hundreds of weekly flights and direct connections operated by Etihad Airways and British Airways, travel between the two destinations is frequent and well-established.
The new ETA requirement does not reduce access to the UK but adds a mandatory planning step. For travellers accustomed to spontaneous trips, this change makes advance preparation essential.
Families visiting relatives, professionals attending meetings, and tourists planning short breaks should now factor ETA approval into their travel timelines.
British Nationals Living in Abu Dhabi
There is a large community of British citizens living in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE. These individuals will not be affected by the ETA requirement when travelling to the UK, as British passport holders remain exempt.
Irish citizens residing in Abu Dhabi are also unaffected by the new rule.
Why the UK Is Introducing This Rule
The UK government has positioned ETA as a way to enhance border security while maintaining smooth travel for low-risk visitors. By screening travellers before departure, authorities can identify potential issues earlier and reduce congestion at UK airports.
At the same time, the move supports the UK’s long-term goal of creating a fully digital border system, reducing reliance on paper documents and manual checks.
Key Dates Abu Dhabi Travellers Must Remember
26 February 2026 – ETA becomes mandatory for eligible UAE travellers
Before travel – ETA must be approved prior to boarding flights to the UK
Missing this requirement could result in denied boarding, regardless of return tickets or accommodation bookings.
Preparing for Travel Under the New Rules
For Abu Dhabi travellers, the best approach is early preparation. Checking passport validity, understanding ETA requirements, and applying in advance will help ensure a smooth journey.
As travel rules continue to evolve globally, staying informed is no longer optional. The UK ETA represents a clear shift towards smarter, digital travel, and being prepared will make all the difference.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
Read Next – Ajman Introduces Its First Fully Integrated Electric Vehicle Charging Hub
