New UK Travel Rules Affect British Dual Nationals in UAE

Feb 25, 2026

76 min

Feb 25, 2026 14:31

New UK rules kick in, complicating travel for British dual nationals in UAE

## New Travel Requirements

British citizens holding dual nationality in the UAE face new travel challenges due to updated UK border regulations. Starting Wednesday, these individuals must present a valid British passport or a foreign passport with a certificate of entitlement to enter the UK. Without these documents, airlines and other transport operators may deny boarding.

## Electronic Travel Authorisation

The changes align with the UK's introduction of electronic travel authorisations (ETAs) for non-visa nationals, including those from the US and Australia. An ETA, costing £16, is now mandatory for those entering or transiting through the UK, unless they remain airside. It allows visits up to six months and is valid for two years or until the passport expires.

## Impact on Dual Nationals

Dual nationals, who have previously traveled using non-British passports, must now ensure they have the correct documentation. A British passport costs around £100, while a certificate of entitlement is £589 and may take up to eight weeks to process. The Home Office has issued temporary guidance allowing some expired British passports as alternative documentation, but the final decision lies with carriers.

## Wider Digitisation Efforts

These measures are part of a broader initiative to digitise the UK's immigration system, aiming to streamline border processes and enhance security. The ETA scheme, similar to systems in Canada and the US, was initially launched in October 2023 and became mandatory in February 2026. Despite the changes, travellers must still clear passport control and may face entry refusal if other issues arise.

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