Do UAE passport holders need a visa to visit France (Schengen)?

No visa required. UAE ordinary passport holders can enter France and the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism. France is part of the Schengen Area. Under the EU–UAE visa waiver agreement in force since May 2015, holders of an ordinary United Arab Emirates passport may travel to France and all other Schengen states without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period, for tourism, business, family visits or transit. No advance application or fee is currently required. Travelers must hold a passport valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date and issued within the last 10 years, and may be asked at the border for proof of accommodation, onward/return travel, and sufficient funds. Important upcoming change: the EU's ETIAS travel authorization is scheduled to launch in the last quarter of 2026 and will later become mandatory (expected during 2027 after a transition/grace period). As of 30 May 2026 ETIAS is NOT yet required, but Emirati travelers should monitor for its rollout, after which a quick online application and a €20 fee (valid 3 years) will apply. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) biometric registration is also being phased in at Schengen external borders.