Do UAE passport holders need a visa to visit MZ?

UAE ordinary passport holders do not need a traditional visa for short tourist stays in Mozambique. The UAE is one of 29 unilaterally visa-exempt countries (up to 30 days), but since the relaunched eVisa/ETA portal went live on 11 February 2026, exempt travelers are expected to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before departure. Apply for the ETA at least 48 hours ahead. Mozambique grants the United Arab Emirates unilateral visa exemption for short tourist and business stays of up to 30 days (extendable once for a further 30 days, capped at 90 days within a 12-month period). However, "visa-free" no longer means "no online step." After a mandatory ETA pre-registration was introduced in late April 2025 and then briefly suspended for technical reasons, Mozambique relaunched a unified eVisa and ETA portal (operated with VFS Global) on 11 February 2026. Under this system, visa-exempt nationals including UAE passport holders are directed to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel; it is a single-entry, pre-departure approval valid for a stay of up to 30 days and is NOT issued on arrival. Airlines are now responsible for checking pre-travel approval and may deny boarding without it. The ETA fee for the 29 exempt nationalities rose with the February 2026 relaunch to roughly USD 48 (sources also cite a ~650 MZN entry fee). Because guidance is in transition and some references (e.g., IATA Timatic) still note boarding may be permitted without an ETA while paying an entry tax, the conservative and recommended course is to secure an ETA online before departure. Visa on arrival assumptions are now outdated and should not be relied upon. Travelers should carry a passport valid at least six months with two blank pages, a return/onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds.