Has there been a trip you’ve always dreamed of, but the visa process or the expense of flights has always been an obstacle? You may get to take it once you get the Visa Guy Travel Grant 2026. UAE residents will have the opportunity to win free flight tickets and visa support for a trip that is important to them from 15 November.
There are two awards for the grant. The first prize goes to three winners, who get free flight tickets to the destination of their choice plus complete visa assistance. The second prize goes to seven more winners, who get free visa assistance. There is no ‘drawing’ for winners, it is judged on the story and the purpose of the journey.
Dubai visa assistance firm The Visa Guy conducts the programme, which is set to resume following its 2024 and 2025 editions. Full terms are made public on The Visa Guy Travel Grant Page and the online application form opens on the opening date.
The content covered by the grant, the eligibility criteria, important deadlines, and how to make a successful application.
Travel Grant 2026 at a glance
| Detail | Information |
| Programme | The Visa Guy Travel Grant 2026 |
| Applications open | 15 November 2026 |
| Applications close | 15 December 2026 |
| Results announced | By 1 January 2027 |
| Number of winners | 10 |
| First prize (3 winners) | Free flight tickets and complete visa assistance |
| Second prize (7 winners) | Free visa assistance |
| Not covered | Accommodation and other travel expenses |
| How to apply | Online application form |
| Selection | Application review, then an interview for shortlisted applicants |
What winners get, and what is not covered
The Visa Guy Travel Grant is divided into 2 prizes:
- 3 winners with free flight tickets and full visa support for first prize. These winners play the trip to the destination of their choice and flights are booked on budget airlines! They are also provided with 100% assistance in their visa application, including gathering the necessary paperwork and preparing the file.
- 7 winners will receive free visa assistance as second prize. These winners are all eligible to receive assistance in preparing and submitting their visa applications and thus plan their trip without undue stress.
A total of 10 travellers will be chosen.
Before applying, it is important to remember two things:
- There is no guarantee of a visa. The Visa Guy is NOT a Government agency. It assists in the collection of documents and in preparing applications, but the final decision is always at the discretion of the Embassy/Consulate.
- This is not a paid holiday. Winners must still budget for accommodation, other travel costs, as they are not included in the prize.
Who can apply
The grant is available to anyone that can fulfill three basic requirements:
- A true love to travel
- An inspiring personal story
- A worthy goal for the trip
The application form requests for the UAE mobile number and WhatsApp number, thus, the programme is targeted for people residing in the UAE. No age restrictions. In the event of a minor being chosen, a parent/guardian will be accommodated, visa and booking will be supported as well.
Key dates
- 15 November 2026: applications open
- 15 December 2026: applications close
- By 1 January 2027: winners announced
The candidates who have been short listed will be called for interview between the application review and final announcement.
How to apply
Applications will be done through one online form. The following is required, and all fields must be filled:
- First name, last name, and e-mail address.
- The UAE phone number and WhatsApp number are used by people all over the UAE.
- A copy of your passport (PDF or JPG, up to 5 MB)
- An ID proof (PDF or JPG, max size 5MB)
There are five short written questions on the form:
- What’s your purpose for traveling? (Up to 500 words)
- The first time you were curious about something outside of your hometown or country
- Someone, something or an event that has impacted your understanding of travel.
- How your journey can help your community, field of work or people you encounter
- The personal change you wish to undergo on your journey and why.
Once the form has been submitted the team will get in touch with you, if shortlisted. Winners also become part of a community of the other travellers.
How winners are selected
The selection is done in 2 rounds. During the first round all applications are considered by the team. In round 2, shortlisted candidates go for a brief interview to discuss their travel story.
This is a composite of both rounds. Candidates are assessed on their story, the reasons for their travel, their enthusiasm for travel and their representation of the programme. The management’s decision will be final.
Tips for a stronger application
Don’t rely on luck to get selected – it’s a story thing, so some preparation is helpful.
- Prepare responses before 15th November. Type them out in a separate document and then paste into the form. This will give you enough time to edit and prevent losing your work.
- Make sure that you are explicit about your intent. Being less descriptive than you are to say, “I want to see Europe” is not as effective as when you talk about who you would like to meet, what you want to learn, and why this trip is important now.
- Explain the widespread effects. Looking for ways to support your community or your field? Share a true story, like something you’re bringing back or a project you’ll share.
- Check your passport. Several countries will require a passport with at least six months’ validity after travel. If yours is close to its expiration, renew early.
- Look up visa requirements for your destination. Rules differ a lot between countries. If you are thinking about Europe, for example, check up on what UAE residents need for a Schengen visa before you choose.
- Prepare clear scans. Passport and ID have to be uploaded as pdf or jpg files no larger than 5 Mb.
- Apply only once. Applications submitted via various means are considered to be one application.
Make sure you have a budget for anything that you don’t have covered. All winners will have to cover accommodation and daily costs, plan ahead.
Important terms to know
- The top three winners book flights via budget airlines.
- No accommodation/other travel costs are included.
- The application period is from 15 November to 15 December 2026.
- The organiser shall have no responsibility for visa refusal or any event that is beyond the control of the organiser such as force majeure.
- The Visa Guy is an independent private company. It does not issue visas or official documents.
Read Also: Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 2026
Frequently asked questions
Does winning the grant guarantee a visa?
Winners are provided assistance in application for their visa but the decision is taken by the embassy/consulate of the country of interest.
Are hotels included?
All winners are not covered for any accommodation and other travel expenses.
Can I apply more than once?
No. Multiple applications from one platform will be considered as a single application.
Can children apply?
Yes. Support for minor’s visa and their travel to the country will be provided, where a guardian will be accommodated.
When will winners be announced?
The results will be announced after the review of the applications and interviews on 1 January 2027.
