Urgent Update: UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Mandatory from 26 February 2026
Emirates Airline has issued an important travel advisory for passengers flying from Dubai to the United Kingdom: starting 26 February 2026, eligible travelers must obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before boarding their flight.
The announcement follows the UK government’s ongoing rollout of its new digital border system. According to the official UK government website, the ETA forms part of the country’s wider border transformation program aimed at enhancing security and streamlining entry procedures.
🔗 Official UK ETA Information:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
What Is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?
The UK ETA is a digital pre-travel clearance requirement for visitors who do not currently need a visa for short stays in the UK. Similar systems already operate in other countries, including:
- 🇺🇸 U.S. ESTA: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- 🇨🇦 Canada eTA: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html
- 🇪🇺 EU ETIAS (launching soon): https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
The UK’s ETA system allows authorities to screen travelers before arrival. Once approved, the authorization is electronically linked to the passport used in the application.
When Does the Requirement Begin?
The ETA requirement becomes mandatory for eligible travelers from 26 February 2026. Passengers flying on or after this date without an approved ETA may be denied boarding.
Travelers departing from Dubai International Airport (DXB) are advised to check eligibility and apply well in advance of travel.
For the latest UK entry requirements, travelers can check:
🔗 https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
Who Needs an ETA?
The ETA applies to travelers who:
- Are from visa-exempt countries
- Plan short visits for tourism, business, study (up to six months), or transit
- Do not already hold a UK visa or immigration status
Travelers who require a visa under UK immigration rules must still apply through the standard visa process.
🔗 UK Visitor Visa Information:
https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor
How to Apply for the UK ETA
Applications must be completed online through the official UK government platform. Applicants typically need:
- A valid biometric passport
- Personal details
- Contact information
- Payment of the application fee
- Responses to security questions
Once approved, the ETA is valid for multiple entries within its validity period (subject to UK immigration rules).
Travelers should apply several days before departure to allow time for processing.
Apply here:
🔗 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
Why Is the UK Introducing the ETA?
The UK government has stated that the ETA is part of its post-Brexit border modernization strategy, designed to:
- Strengthen border security
- Digitize entry systems
- Screen travelers before arrival
- Reduce immigration abuse
- Improve passenger flow at ports of entry
More details on the UK’s border transformation program can be found here:
🔗 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-border-strategy-2025
Emirates’ Advisory to Passengers
Airlines are legally required to ensure passengers meet entry requirements before departure. As such, Emirates will verify that travelers hold valid documentation — including an approved ETA where required — prior to boarding.
Failure to obtain an ETA could result in denied boarding.
Passengers are encouraged to:
- Verify eligibility before booking
- Apply early
- Ensure passport details exactly match the ETA application
- Monitor official updates via Emirates’ travel information page
🔗 Emirates Travel Updates:
https://www.emirates.com/ae/english/help/covid-19/travel-requirements/
Impact on Dubai and UAE Travelers
Dubai is a major aviation hub connecting passengers to the UK for tourism, education, business, and transit. The new ETA requirement will affect a significant number of travelers passing through Dubai.
Travel agencies and corporate travel managers are advising clients to update their compliance checklists and travel policies accordingly.
UAE residents can also check travel advisories through:
🔗 UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.mofa.gov.ae
Key Takeaways
- UK ETA becomes mandatory from 26 February 2026
- Required for eligible visa-exempt travelers
- Must be approved before boarding
- Application is fully online
- Airlines may deny boarding without valid authorization
As international travel increasingly shifts toward digital pre-screening systems, travelers flying from Dubai to the UK should prepare early to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted journey.