Let’s be honest - the worst part of planning a trip is the visa application. Long queues, confusing paperwork, and embassy appointments that feel like job interviews. Nobody wants that.
Thankfully, some countries get it. If you are living in the UAE and looking to travel without the red tape, Malaysia, Singapore, and Kenya have your back with their super-easy e-visa systems.
Here’s a straight-up, no-drama guide to getting your tourist e-visas sorted - quickly, cleanly, and online.
Planning a trip to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Langkawi? Good news - Malaysia e-visa system is one of the smoothest you will find.
Here’s what you need to apply:
● A passport with at least 6 months' validity
● Recent passport photo
● Flight booking (yes, a round trip)
● Hotel booking (a simple one will do)
● UAE residence visa copy
That’s it. You can apply online in under 15 minutes. No need to visit a consulate, no need to print and sign twenty forms. Once you apply, approval usually comes in 1–2 working days.
Visa validity: 30 days
Entry: Single or multiple, depending on what you choose
Best part: It works. No surprises. No follow-ups.
Pro tip: Even a budget hotel confirmation works for your visa. You don’t need to flash luxury bookings just to get approved.
Singapore doesn’t let just anyone apply directly. If you are in the UAE, you will need to go through a licensed visa agent, but don’t worry, it is still easy.
Here is what you will need:
● Passport scan (make sure it is clear)
● ICA-compliant photo (this part matters - they’re strict)
● UAE residence visa copy
● Optional: hotel and flight bookings (some agents ask, some don’t)
Your agent will handle the rest. The Singapore authorities usually process it in 3–5 working days. Once it is approved, your e-visa lands in your inbox as a PDF. Print it, and you are done.
Visa validity: 30 days
Entry: Usually single-entry
Real talk: This isn’t a DIY visa, but if you use a proper agent, it is smooth sailing.
Pro tip: Don’t mess around with the photo. ICA has strict rules. One wrong crop and you are back to square one.
If you have ever wanted to watch elephants roam at sunset or sip tea in the highlands, Kenya is calling. And getting there has never been easier, thanks to their full online e-visa system.
Here’s what you will need:
● Passport (6 months validity)
● A passport-sized photo
● Flight ticket
● Hotel reservation or invitation letter
● UAE residence visa scan
You apply directly on the Kenyan eVisa portal. It is straightforward, doesn’t crash, and works. You will get your visa by email, usually within 48 hours.
Visa validity: 90 days from the date of issue
Entry: Single-entry only
Why it is great: The process is transparent, fast, and doesn’t ask for a hundred documents.
Pro tip: If you are heading to other East African countries too (like Rwanda or Uganda), look into the East Africa Tourist Visa - it covers all three.
If you're a UAE resident planning a quick getaway, here's a simplified visa breakdown for Malaysia, Singapore, and Kenya. For Malaysia, you can apply directly through a DIY online application. The visa process takes around 1–2 days, and you're allowed to stay for 30 days. In contrast, for Singapore, you must apply via a trusted agency in the UAE, as direct applications aren’t allowed. The processing time is 3–5 days, with a 30-day stay. Lastly, Kenya allows you to apply directly through a full online application. The process usually takes 2–3 days, and you can enjoy a longer 90-day stay.
● Your passport needs 6 months' validity minimum - don’t overlook this.
● Photos matter - especially for Singapore. Use a proper photo studio.
● Double-check spellings of your name and passport number. It sounds basic, but a typo could delay everything.
● Print your visa - even if it is digital. Some immigration desks still want to see paper.
● Don’t book non-refundable flights until your visa’s approved - just in case.
We all want to get to the fun part of travel - the food, the sights, the memories. Visas used to be a barrier. But now? Not so much.
Whether you are going to Malaysia’s street markets, Singapore’s Marina Bay, or Kenya’s game reserves, the e-visa for UAE residents are as painless as they get. A few documents, a few clicks, and you are set.
So go ahead - skip the embassy, pack your bags, and book the trip. Travel’s never been easier.
And if you want someone to handle the process for you? That’s what we’re here for.