Costa Rica visa for Emirati citizens

As an Emirati passport holder, you can enjoy visa-free entry to Costa Rica for up to 90 days, making planning your Pura Vida adventure straightforward for tourist purposes. While there are no direct flights, common routes via Europe or North America often involve layovers, with total travel times exceeding 20 hours, highlighting the vast distance between the Arabian Peninsula and Central America's lush rainforests. You’ll find the Costa Rican Colón is the official currency, though US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, and learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience. Prepare for a significant time zone shift, as Costa Rica operates 10 hours behind the UAE, so planning for jet lag is advisable to fully embrace the country's unparalleled biodiversity.

Visa-free90d stay· verified 2026-05-27

Entry requirements

Onward ticket
Required
Funds proof
$100 / person
Health insurance
Not required
Yellow fever cert.
Required

Visa options

TouristTourist Entry (Visa-Exempt Nationals, Group 1)
180d$0
TouristTourist Visa / Entry (Nationals Requiring Visa, Groups 2-4)
30d
Digital NomadDigital Nomad Stay Subcategory
365dmultiple-entryvalid 1y
RetirementPensionado Temporary Residence (Retiree with Lifetime Pension)
$50multiple-entryvalid 2y
InvestorRentista / Fixed Income Temporary Residence
$50multiple-entryvalid 2y
InvestorInversionista / Investment Temporary Residence (“Golden Visa”)
$50multiple-entryvalid 2y
WorkWork‑Based Temporary Residence (Employer‑Sponsored)
$50multiple-entryvalid 2y
FamilyFamily‑Based Temporary or Permanent Residence
$50multiple-entry
OtherPermanent Resident Permit
$50multiple-entryvalid 5y

Sources