Djibouti eVisa for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Nationals

Djibouti, a strategically located country in the Horn of Africa, has become an emerging travel destination for tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and booming economy, Djibouti attracts visitors from across the globe, including nationals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. To facilitate entry for GCC nationals, Djibouti offers an electronic visa (eVisa) system, allowing travelers to apply online without visiting a consulate or embassy.

Do GCC Nationals Need a Visa for Djibouti?

Yes, nationals of GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman) require a visa to enter Djibouti. However, they can conveniently apply for an eVisa online rather than obtaining a visa on arrival or visiting an embassy.

The Djibouti eVisa system streamlines the process, reducing paperwork and allowing travelers to receive their visas electronically before departure.

Djibouti eVisa Types & Validity

GCC travelers can apply for the following types of eVisas:

Visa Type	Validity	Purpose	Stay Duration
Tourism eVisa	90 days (single entry)	Tourism, leisure travel	Up to 90 days
Family/Social VisiteVisa	90 days (single entry)	Social occasions, visiting family or friends	Up to 90 days
Business eVisa	90 days (single entry)	Business meetings, conferences, trade visits	Up to 90 days
Transit eVisa	14 days (single entry)	Passing through Djibouti en route to another country	Up to 14 days

Djibouti eVisa Requirements for GCC Nationals

To apply for a Djibouti eVisa, GCC nationals must meet the following requirements:

✔ Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival
✔ Recent Passport-Sized Photo – Clear, colored, and taken against a white background
✔ Confirmed Travel Itinerary – Flight bookings showing arrival and departure details
✔ Proof of Accommodation – Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a host in Djibouti
✔ Valid Email Address – For receiving the eVisa confirmation
✔ Payment Method – Credit/debit card for online visa fee payment

Additional Requirements for Business eVisa:
✔ Letter of Invitation – From a Djiboutian business entity
✔ Business Registration Proof – A copy of the company’s trade license or registration certificate

Application Process for a Djibouti eVisa for GCC Nationals

GCC nationals can follow these steps to apply for a Djibouti eVisa online:

Step 1: Visit the Djibouti eVisa Portal

Begin your Djibouti application form by visiting the Djibouti eVisa Application portal. Ensure you are on the correct portal to avoid scams or unofficial services. This is the first step in initiating the application process securely.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Fill out the online application with your personal details, travel dates, and purpose of visit. Upload required documents, including a passport scan, photo, itinerary, and proof of stay. Double-check for accuracy to prevent delays.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

Select the visa type, pay the fee online using a credit or debit card, and ensure successful payment to avoid delays. Fees vary by visa type and duration.

Approval of Djibouti eVisa for GCC Citizens

After submitting your Djibouti eVisa application, the processing time usually takes around 3 to 5 business days. Once your application is successfully approved, the eVisa will be sent to your registered email address in a PDF format. It is essential to carefully check your email for the eVisa approval letter, which contains important travel information. To ensure a smooth entry into Djibouti, it is highly recommended to print a copy of the eVisa approval letter and carry it with you during your travels, as you will need to present it to immigration officers upon arrival in the country.

Djibouti eVisa Fees for GCC Nationals

Djibouti eVisa fees for GCC nationals depend on several factors, including the type of visa, its duration, and the number of entries. The fees can also fluctuate due to exchange rates and any additional service charges. Similar to other eVisa systems, the cost of a Djibouti eVisa varies according to the applicant's nationality, visa type (tourist, business, transit, etc.), and the chosen processing time. To determine the exact fee for a Djibouti eVisa, travelers can visit the Djibouti Visa Feepage, where a fee-checking tool is provided. This will allow you to easily verify the eVisa fee based on your unique requirements.

Djibouti eVisa Processing Time for GCC PAssport Holders

When applying for a Djibouti eVisa, GCC passport holders can expect different processing times depending on their choice of application speed.

Standard Processing: 4 - 7 Working Days
Rush Processing: 3 - 5 Working Days (may include extra fees)
Super Rush Processing: 2 - 4 Working Days (may include extra fees)

To ensure a smooth and timely application process, it is advisable to apply at least one week before the intended travel date to avoid any potential delays.

Entry & Travel Guidelines for GCC Nationals

Once the eVisa is approved, GCC nationals should be aware of the following entry regulations:

At the Airport/Border Checkpoint

Present a printed copy of the eVisa upon arrival.
Carry the same passport used in the visa application.
Immigration officers may ask for hotel bookings & return tickets.

Yellow Fever Vaccination: Required if traveling from an affected country.

How to Track Your Djibouti eVisa Application as a GCC National

To track your Djibouti eVisa application as a GCC national, follow these steps:

Visit the Djibouti eVisa Website: Go to the Djibouti eVisa Application Status portal and log in with your application details.
Check Your Application Status: Track the progress of your application and look for updates on approval or any required actions.
Receive EmailNotifications: Get notifications of your eVisa approval or any issues directly via email.

Djibouti eVisa Renewal and Extension Options for GCC Nationals

GCC nationals who hold a Djibouti eVisa can apply for an extension or renewal if needed. Here's an overview of the process:

Extension Request: If you wish to extend your stay, apply for an extension before your initial visa expires. The request must be submitted through the immigration authorities, and approval is based on your circumstances.
Eligibility: Extensions are generally available for tourist or business visas but are subject to immigration policies and individual cases.
Processing Time: Extension requests can take several business days for approval, so it’s important to apply early to avoid overstaying your visa.
Additional Fees: Be prepared for possible additional fees for processing the extension, which vary depending on the type of visa and duration of the extension.

Key Travel Tips for GCC Nationals Visiting Djibouti

Here are some key travel tips for GCC nationals visiting Djibouti:

Best Time to Visit: October to April (cooler temperatures).
Currency: Djiboutian Franc (DJF), but USD and Euros are widely accepted.
Local Transport: Taxis and car rentals are available in Djibouti City.
Top Attractions: Lake Assal, Moucha Island, Djibouti City, Tadjoura, and the Gulf of Aden.
Local Laws & Customs: Dress modestly and respect Islamic traditions.

Comparison Between DJibouti eVisa, Visa on Arrival and Traditional Visa

Here’s a comparison of the Djibouti eVisa, Visa on Arrival, and Traditional Visa for GCC nationals:

Visa Type	Djibouti eVisa	Visa on Arrival	Traditional Visa
Eligibility	Available for GCC nationals who meet the criteria for an eVisa.	Available for GCC nationals on arrival, depending on nationality.	Available for GCC nationals requiring a visa before departure.
Application Process	Online application, no need to visit an embassy.	Apply at the airport upon arrival.	Apply at a Djibouti embassy or consulate before traveling.
Processing Time	4 - 7 Working Days for standard processing, faster options may be available.	Immediate upon arrival at the airport, but may involve long waiting times.	Varies based on the embassy, usually takes a few days to a week.
Cost	Fixed eVisa fees, may vary by nationality and visa type.	Visa fees paid upon arrival, typically higher than eVisa fees.	Embassy processing fees, which can vary depending on the embassy and visa type.
Visa Duration	Typically valid for up to 90 days, depending on the visa type.	Generally granted for a short stay, up to 30 days.	Duration depends on the type of visa granted.
Convenience	Very convenient, as it can be done online without needing to visit an embassy.	Convenient for last-minute travelers, but can involve delays and uncertainty.	Requires visiting the embassy, taking more time and effort.
Documents Needed	Passport, passport photo, accommodation details, travel itinerary, and possibly a return ticket.	Passport and possibly proof of accommodation, but less documentation needed.	Passport, completed application form, travel details, and sometimes more supporting documents like financial statements.
Approval Time	Typically within X–Y business days.	Immediate, granted at the port of entry.	May take several days depending on the embassy.
Extension Option	Extensions may be possible, subject to approval.	Extensions not possible; traveler must leave and reapply.	Extensions are possible but depend on visa type and embassy rules.
Suitable for	Travelers who prefer an easy, advance application process.	Last-minute travelers who are flexible but may face longer wait times.	Travelers who prefer or require a traditional visa due to specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, GCC nationals must apply for an eVisa or visa on arrival, depending on their travel circumstances.

Standard processing typically takes 4 - 7 Working Days , but urgent processing can be completed in 2 - 4 Working Days for an additional fee.

Yes, eligible GCC nationals can easily apply for a Djibouti eVisa online without visiting an embassy.

GCC nationals need to provide a valid passport, passport-sized photo, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and sometimes a return ticket.

Yes, GCC nationals can apply for an extension of their eVisa while in Djibouti, depending on the type of visa they hold.

Some GCC nationals may qualify for a visa on arrival, but it is recommended to apply for the eVisa in advance for a smoother entry.

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in February 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.