USD (US$)
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JPY (¥)The Middle East is a vast wonderland of countries brimming with ancient treasures and stunning landscapes, and the UAE is no exception. We’re here to help you find the best way to visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the UAE from Israel.
Flying to the UAE - no matter where you are in the Middle East - is always optimal as many new flights go from Ben Gurion International Airport to 3 of the United Arab Emirates’ international airports. The airlines that currently offer flights between the two, graciously allowed to travel through Saudi Airspace to cut down on times, include Emirates, El Al, Etihad Airways, and Israir, as well as outside airlines such as Turkish Airlines, and Royal Jordanian.
Read on to find out how to visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the UAE from Israel.
Tours from Israel to the UAE
An excellent option for traveling between these countries is to take an Israel and UAE Tour Package or our UAE from Israel Package Tours, making the most of your time with fascinating stops along the way rather than just jumping from country to country. With the UAE just having opened up more doors for tourism, it’s predicted to leap to the top of bucket lists in the upcoming years, and we offer you the chance on our Israel and the United Arab Emirates tour packages to visit this hidden treasure before anyone else gets there. Some of our favorite options leave from Tel Aviv and take you to see some of Israel’s highlights before continuing to Dubai and Abu Dhabi on package tours that range from 10 to 13 days long. Our 11 Day Israel, Dubai & Abu Dhabi Tour Package leaves from Tel Aviv and includes a step back into Israel’s past, visiting biblical highlights, including Bethlehem, as well as historic Jerusalem. Our 13 Day Israel, Jordan, Dubai & Abu Dhabi Tour Package also departs from Tel Aviv and combines the best of Jordan, Israel, and the Emirates with stops at the Dead Sea and free time to explore Tel Aviv, along with guided adventures in Petra and Dubai.
Visiting Dubai from Israel
Once the height of luxury in the Middle East, Dubai is still no slouch when it comes to opulent stays and sights, and offers visitors a well-established tourism industry that caters to many different travelers. Also renowned for being a business hotspot where companies are made and broken, Dubai is perfect if you’re looking to relax in a world-class spa or negotiate a crucial deal. With most flights from Tel Aviv to Dubai including a stopover, the time spent traveling can vary from 6 and a half hours to 11 hours with layovers. Learn the easiest ways to get to and from Ben Gurion for an even quicker trip. If you’re lucky and snag a direct flight, the time is only about 3 hours, and Israir is rumored to be opening a number of direct flights at the end of 2020, while Emirates is supposed to be launching a direct flight from Tel Aviv to Abu Dhabi in 2021.
Visiting Abu Dhabi from Israel
This emirate is also the capital of the country, nicknamed “the sleeping giant” for years and overlooked in favor of nearby Dubai. Today, it boasts some of the most expensive real estate in the country, and a number of iconic landmarks like the luxe Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Emirates Palace, and more luxury shopping than you could possibly imagine. A hotspot for international luxury lovers, this now bustling city attracts visitors from across the globe, and it’s expected to jump in popularity in the coming years. Direct flights from Israel to Abu Dhabi only take a little over 3 hours, and you have a number of airlines offering services from local airlines to global giants to help you get from Israel to the UAE.
Visiting Sharjah from Israel
While this city is the third largest and most populous in the country, it’s often overlooked for its ostentatious neighbors but offers travelers a wider array of attractions than you might expect. Focusing more on the history and culture of the UAE than glitzy shopping and luxe hotels, Sharjah boasts some of the country’s best art galleries, both historic and contemporary, incredibly expansive museums, and the Mleiha Archaeological Site. Named the Islamic Culture Capital in 2014, it’s definitely worth a trip, and the direct flights from Israel to Sharjah make it easier than ever to explore this hidden gem. Direct flights are approximately 3 hours, and getting from the airport into the city is a breeze with a number of cab services and private drivers available for hire, making this a stress-free way how to get to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the UAE from Israel.
Visa Requirements
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a mix of visa-free entry, visas on arrival, and pre-arranged visas depending on your nationality. Policies can change, so always check with official UAE websites before you book.
Visa-Free / Visa-On-Arrival Entry
Many nationalities can enter the UAE without arranging a visa in advance and will receive an entry permit on arrival at major airports (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi). The length of stay granted varies by passport:
- 30-day entry permits: Citizens of countries such as Andorra, Brunei, Hong Kong (China), Kazakhstan, Macau (China), Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, Mongolia, Republic of Ireland, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Vatican City typically receive a 30-day visa on arrival.
- 90-day entry permits: Many European countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and others often qualify for longer 90-day visas on arrival.
- GCC nationals: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council states (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain) do not need a visa at all.
These entry permits are typically issued at immigration with proof of onward travel, a passport valid for at least six months, and sometimes evidence of accommodation or funds.
Electronic or Pre-Arranged Visas
If your nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival, you generally need to obtain a pre-arranged tourist visa before you travel. This can often be done online through carriers (e.g., Emirates, Etihad) or through UAE immigration portals for stays of 14, 30, or 60+ days, depending on the type and purpose of your visit.
Special Cases
- Some passport holders (e.g., Indian citizens) may be eligible for a visa on arrival if they hold valid long-term visas or residence permits from countries like the USA, UK, EU/Schengen, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, or New Zealand.
- Always check specific rules for your passport, as eligibility and duration can differ by nationality.
As always, check with your local embassy and the Emirates embassy before booking anything, and enjoy your journey wherever it takes you!
Explore the UAE with Ease and Comfort
Visiting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the UAE from Israel has never been easier. With our Israel & UAE Tour Packages, you can experience the best of both countries without worrying about logistics, flights, or accommodations. Our packages include guided tours, handpicked hotels, and carefully curated itineraries, letting you focus entirely on exploring iconic landmarks, luxury experiences, and hidden gems. Whether you’re eager for a 10-day journey through Israel and Dubai or a longer 13-day adventure including Abu Dhabi and Jordan, we organize all the details, including transfers, hotels, guides, and activities, providing a stress-free, unforgettable getaway.
