Japan and UAE to Boost Travel with New Flights and Visa Changes

During his visit to Abu Dhabi, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed optimism about the future of air travel between Japan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Citing recent visa relaxations and the introduction of a new Etihad Airways service to Osaka, the prime minister highlighted the potential increase in traffic between the two countries.

Simplified Travel Procedures for UAE Citizens and Expats

Addressing the UAE-Japan Business Forum, Prime Minister Kishida praised the efforts made to facilitate travel between Japan and the UAE.

UAE citizens holding ordinary passports no longer require a visit visa to travel to Japan. Additionally, expatriates can now easily apply for e-Visas, eliminating the need to visit consulates or embassies.

Japan eVisa For UAE Nationals

Japanese authorities on Tuesday announced that effective immediately, UAE residents may now apply for an eVisa through a dedicated website. Here’s how the new paperless process goes:

1. Visit the Dedicated Website: To begin the application process, go to the official website: https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp.
2. Submit Your Application: Fill in the necessary information and submit your eVisa application through the website. Once successfully submitted, you will receive a digital confirmation visa.
3. Digital Confirmation Visa: Upon approval, you will receive a digital confirmation visa, which will serve as your official visa document.
4. Easy Entry Process: When arriving at Japan’s immigration, all you need to do is log on to the Japan eVISA website and display your visa. No need to carry any screenshots or printouts of the visa page.

Remember, screenshots or printouts of the visa page will not be accepted, so it’s crucial to access the official eVisa website for hassle-free entry.

Etihad Airways to Enhance Connectivity with Osaka

Commencing from October 1, national carrier Etihad Airways is set to operate five weekly flights to Osaka. This new service is expected to strengthen trade, tourism, and business ties between Japan and the UAE.

Air Traffic Boom between the Two Countries

The increased connectivity is evident in the frequent services offered by both Etihad Airways and Emirates. With over 20 weekly flights to Japan, these airlines are catering to the growing demand for travel between the UAE and Japan.

Etihad Airways currently provides seven weekly flights to Tokyo, while Emirates operates daily services to Tokyo-Narita, Tokyo-Haneda, and Osaka. Both carriers have plans to expand their operations further to meet the rising interest in travel between the two nations.

Embracing Japan’s Rich Cultural Experience

In his statement, Prime Minister Kishida extended a warm invitation to UAE travellers to explore Japan’s unique culture and attractions. From its authentic cuisine to picturesque landscapes, and the thrill of riding the iconic bullet trains, visitors from the UAE are encouraged to discover the wonders of Japan.

Middle East Tour Continues

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit to the UAE is part of a three-day, three-nation Middle East tour. After concluding his engagements in Abu Dhabi, he is scheduled to depart for Doha on Tuesday.

With the recent visa facilitations and the introduction of Etihad Airways’ new service to Osaka, the future of air travel between Japan and the UAE appears promising, fostering stronger bonds between the two nations in various spheres.

As travellers from the UAE continue to explore Japan’s cultural marvels, the bilateral relationship is set to thrive in the years to come.