UAE citizens can enjoy visa-free travel to Sri Lanka under new deal

Sri Lanka has made the UAE and 39 other countries eligible to obtain a free-of-charge tourist visas for a period of 30 days.

Sri Lanka's Immigration and Emigration Authority stated on Monday that 40 countries, including the UAE, can obtain the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) free of charge starting May 25. 

The visa also permits double-entry from the date of first arrival in Sri Lanka within the 30-day validity period.

Those who wish to remain in Sri Lanka beyond 30 days can apply for a visa extension that comes with a fee.

The authority also clarified that any fees paid by tourists before May 25 will not be refunded.

Other eligible countries included in the new visa announcement include the UK, US, Australia, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, India, and Pakistan.