If you are planning to visit the UAE, don’t overlook its photo specifications. UAE follows strict standards regarding photo size, background, and presentation that all tourists must abide by. Find out all about the UAE’s visa photograph rules and specifications so a blurry image or a low quality photo can’t get in the way of your UAE adventures.

Here’s a quick overview of UAE visa photo size requirements and specifications that all tourists must adhere to:
| Width x Height | 35 mm x 45 mm |
| Face Size | Your face should occupy 70% to 80% of the photo’s height. |
| Face Orientation | Clear front & forward facing |
| Background | White background |
| Quantity | 1-4 |
| Accessories | No hats, sunglasses, or scarves |
| Tips | – High quality with no ink marks or creases
– Taken within 6 months before the application. – Photos with dark or patterned backgrounds will not be accepted. |
Photo Size
Here are the specific UAE visa passport photo sizes you need for a successful visa approval:
| Photo Size in MM | 35 mm x 45 mm. |
| Photo Size in CM | 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm. |
| Photo Size in Inches | 1.37 inches x 1.77 inches. |
| Photo Size in Pixels | 600 x 800 pixels. |
Photo Color & Recentness
To understand the requirements better, here are the rules regarding the UAE visa photo color, age, and quality:
- Color of the Photo: Colored photos are mandatory. Black-and-white images will not be accepted. Ensure the colors are natural and not edited or poorly lit.
- Age of the Photo: Photographs taken within the last six months are acceptable.
- Photo Matte or Glossy: Both are acceptable, but must meet the requirements.
Suggested Read: UAE Visa Rejection For Indian
Photo Background & Lighting
Ensure your photo meets the required specifications for background and lighting to avoid delays in your UAE visa application.
Background
The background of the UAE visa photo must be plain white. This is a strict requirement, as any patterns, objects, or shadows in the background may cause your photo to be rejected. The plain white background ensures that your face is clearly visible and stands out.
Lighting
Proper lighting is crucial. The photo should have even lighting across your face and the background. Avoid harsh shadows or over-exposure. Natural, soft lighting works best to capture your features accurately.
Face Visibility & Expressions
Here are the UAE visa photo guidelines related to face visibility and expressions:
Facial Visibility
Your face should take up 70-80% of the photo’s total area. The face must be centered and fully visible, and no part of your face should be cut off by the frame of the photo.
Facial Expression
A neutral expression is required. This means:
- No smiling, frowning, or raising eyebrows.
- The mouth should be closed, and your eyes should be open.
- There should be no hair, glasses, or other obstructions on the face.
- Your head must be centered and straight, facing the camera directly.
- Both ears should be visible.
Accessories & Attire
There are specific protocols that you must follow when it comes to attire and accessories:
Accessories
- Glasses: Avoid sunglasses. Medically necessary glasses that do not cover the eyes or cast a shadow are permitted.
- Medical Devices: Remove a hearing aid or any medical device that may cover your face.
- Jewelry: Do not wear jewelry that may obscure your facial features from the camera.
- Headgear: Hats or any headgear should be removed for the photo. Religious headwear is permitted so long as it doesn’t cover any facial features.
- Hair & Makeup: Do not wear wigs, fake eyelashes, or appearance-altering makeup.
- Electronics: Do not wear headphones or wireless earphones during your photo session.
Attire
There is no specific dress code for the photo. However, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Avoid wearing white, as it may blend in with the white background.
- Wear solid colors and avoid clothes with graphic designs, logos, or patterns.
- Don’t wear a uniform or camouflage attire.
- Avoid ties, bow ties, or other formal accessories that may divert attention from your face.
UAE Visa Photo Requirements for Children & Infants

For children and infants, the UAE visa photo requirements are relaxed:
- The child must be the only subject in the photo.
- Eyes should be open, with a neutral expression.
- A supporting hand or chair can be in the background to keep the baby upright, but it should not be visible in the photo frame.
- Parents or other people should not appear in the photo.
- The same background and lighting requirements apply as for adult photos.
- Slight head tilts or minor facial expressions are generally acceptable.
Suggested Read: How to Check UAE Visa Status Online for Indian
Common Reasons for UAE Visa Photo Rejection




Here are some of the common reasons for UAE visa photo rejection:
Incorrect Size or Dimensions: Photos that do not adhere to the exact 35mm x 45mm will be rejected.
Improper Background: Photos with a background color other than white, or those with patterns or shadows, are often rejected.
Visible Objects or People: Any images with objects or people in the background will be rejected immediately.
Facial Expressions and Position: A neutral expression is required. Smiling, frowning, or other facial expressions are not acceptable. The applicant must be facing the camera in an upright position.
Head and Eye Position: You need to look straight at the camera lens, which must be positioned at eye level. Your application will be rejected if your head is tilted or your eyes are closed.
Shadow or Glare: If you wear glasses, any glare, reflections, or frames covering part of your eyes will result in rejection. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are also not allowed.
Clothing and Accessories: Don’t wear a scarf, hat, or headgear for your photo session. Dress professionally and modestly for the photo session.
Quality of the Photo: The photo should be of excellent quality, and the paper texture should be ideally matte, glossy, or semi-matte.
Unapproved Photo Editing: Photos should not be edited or tampered with in any way or by anyone. If your photo is edited, it may be rejected.
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FAQs
What are the UAE visa photo size requirements?
The required size for a UAE visa photo is 35 mm x 45 mm. The image should be in color, with a neutral expression, open eyes, and a closed mouth.
Can you provide details about the visa for UAE photo requirements?
The UAE photo requirements typically include a color, 35 mm x 45 mm, photo with a plain white background.
What are the UAE visa picture requirements for children?
Children’s photos need to be clear for UAE visa applications, taken from the front within the last six months, with a white background.
How should the UAE visa photo size be measured?
The UAE photo requirements typically include a color, 35 mm x 45 mm photo with a plain white background.
What are the common mistakes with UAE visa photo size requirements?
Common mistakes with UAE visa photo size requirements include incorrect dimensions, poor image quality, improper lighting, and facial issues like incorrect expressions or obstructed views.
What lighting conditions should be avoided for the UAE visa photo specification?
For a UAE visa photo, you should avoid shadows on the face or background, overexposure, and underexposure. The photo must be taken in a well-lit area with a plain white background.
Can accessories be worn in the UAE visa photo requirements?
Accessories should be minimized or avoided in UAE visa photos to ensure clarity. Hats, headwear, and sunglasses are typically not permitted, except for religious or medical reasons.
What are the key UAE visa photo requirements?
The standard size for UAE visa photos is 35 mm x 45 mm.



















