Travelling to Türkiye from the UAE: Everything you need to know
Türkiye (formerly Turkey) has always been a popular spot among tourists. Crystal clear lakes, lofty mountains, ancient ruins, picturesque towns and large cosmopolitan cities make this country a wholesome travel destination. Given its Mediterranean climate and rich history, Turkey appeals to everyone. If you are planning to travel to Türkiye from the UAE, we have covered all the necessary information you might need.
WHY VISIT Türkiye
Why visit Turkey? That’s the easiest question to answer! Because only in Türkiye’s boundless environment can you find fairy chimneys, mesmerising beaches, colourful valleys and rock-carved cathedrals all at once!
Istanbul, the metropolis that connects East and West, is a city that never sleeps. It’s the most popular spot for tourists in Türkiye, thanks to the abundance of beautiful monuments and charming architecture. Not only this, but Istanbul also boasts a vibrant nightlife and a variety of restaurants.
The bustling markets, along with the beautiful tourist spots, make it one of those cities on the planet that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime! If you are planning a short solo trip from Dubai, then Istanbul should be your first choice!
Alongside vibrant cities like Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir, Türkiye has plenty of natural retreats. From skiing in the Uludağ Mountains and hiking in the Rize Province to witnessing the Arctic-like illusion of Pamukkale‘s white travertine terraces, there is plenty to explore!
The itinerary for your travel to Turkey from the UAE can also include the mesmerising ancient ruins of Ephesus. Known as the largest and best-preserved of Türkiye’s hundreds of ancient cities and ruins, Ephesus has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the past, Ephesus was a renowned commercial city and a centre for the cult of Cybele, the Anatolian goddess of fertility.
Cappadocia is one of the most visited places in Turkey. Shaped by nature and existing since antiquity, Cappadocia will take your breath away with its spectacular views. It is also one of the most popular scenic places to ride a hot air balloon.
Bodrum, Antalya and Fethiye have some of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with a spectrum including everything from secluded coves to exciting beach parties. One of the best ways to experience Turkey’s many beaches and the Aegean Coast is by cruise.
HOW TO TRAVEL TO TURKEY FROM THE UAE
Travelling to Turkey requires a visa for citizens and residents of the UAE.
If you want to travel to Turkey from the UAE, you can apply for a Turkish visa by visiting the Turkey Visa Application Centre in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. You no longer need to visit the Turkish Embassy or Consulate for an interview.
E-Visa
The fastest and easiest option to get a Turkey visa from the UAE is to apply through the e-Visa system. Through this procedure, you can receive your approved e-Visa fast. The e-Visa facility is only available for certain nationalities, so check your eligibility before applying.
Apply on the official Türkiye e-visa portal. The option is only for tourism and trade purposes. The portal will also let you know whether your nationality qualifies for the e-visa.
Here is the process for a Turkey visa application for those who are UAE residents with another nationality, not exempt from visa-free entry:
- Open the official e-visa portal
- Choose your passport type and nationality
- Enter passport and travel details
- Pay online
- After approval, download the e-visa
Please note that an applicant’s passport must remain valid for at least 60 days beyond the authorised period of stay.
Sticker Visa
Not eligible for the e-visa?
If you don’t qualify for an E-Visa, head to the Visa Application Centre for a sticker visa. Those residing in Dubai, RAK, Ajman, UAQ and Fujairah will have to apply for a visa at the Visa Application Centre in Dubai. On the other hand, the Visa Application Centre in Abu Dhabi caters to residents of the capital and Al Ain.
Currently, VFS Global is the official partner of the Turkish Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Turkish Consulate General in Dubai for visa applications in the UAE. As per their official website:
- Applicants who hold residence visas issued by the emirates of Al Ain and Abu Dhabi must submit their applications at the Visa Application Centre in Abu Dhabi.
- The Visa Application Centre in Dubai only accepts applications from those who own residence visas in all emirates apart from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
The list of required documents includes the following:
- Valid passport
- Biometric photograph
- Valid resident permit
- Accommodation document
- Reserved flights
- Financial statement
- Health insurance
- Company letter for employees or for business owners
- Accommodation documents of the UAE
FAQs
HOW LONG IS THE FLIGHT FROM UAE TO TURKEY?
The flight duration from Dubai to Istanbul is around 4 hours and 55 minutes.
IS TURKEY EXPENSIVE?
Turkey is a fairly affordable place to visit compared to other European countries. You can easily get a filling meal for less than TRY 70 (AED 14). Commuting within Istanbul via metro and tram is cheap and convenient.
HOW CAN I MAKE THE MOST OF MY TRIP TO TURKEY?
Here are some tips to keep in mind for a memorable and hassle-free UAE Turkey travel:
- Booking tours and tickets online can cost more than the actual price. It’s best to book them when you get to Turkey.
- When in Turkey, ditch the cab and use other means of public transport. It’s cheaper and, in the case of Istanbul, faster too.
- If you will spend most of your time in Istanbul, pack comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be walking A LOT and there will be plenty of uphill climbs.
- When booking hotels, look for options closer to the metro/tram – it makes getting around much easier. It also helps to find accommodation close to the attractions you want to visit.
- Make sure you carry cash! Not all shops and hotels would accept cards.
- For buying souvenirs, steer clear of tourist-centric destinations. Instead, look for smaller vendors in lanes and alleys to get the best price for things you want.
- Finding the transport card for the metro/tram or bus is easier at stations closer to the tourist attractions.
This concludes our guide on visiting Turkey from the UAE. If you’re looking for more holiday destinations, consider travelling to Azerbaijan from the UAE. You can also plan a visit to Georgia from the UAE if you’re looking for shorter flights and ample fun. Both Azerbaijan and Georgia are popular visa-free countries for UAE residents.
Have a European destination in mind? Travel to Greece from the UAE! Want a quick weekend destination? A trip to Armenia from the UAE should do.
