Prime Minister Hon. James Marape on Wednesday, 4 February, 2026 welcomed the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding on Mutual Exemption of Entry Visa Requirements between the Government of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea and the Government of the United Arab Emirates, describing it as a major step forward in strengthening bilateral relations and opening new pathways for tourism, trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
The Agreement was signed on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit currently being held in Dubai, following high-level engagements between the two Governments.
Prime Minister Marape said the Visa Waiver Agreement reflects Papua New Guinea’s growing international confidence and its commitment to building practical partnerships with countries that have demonstrated strong economic growth, innovation, and global connectivity.
“This Agreement is a clear signal that Papua New Guinea is open, ready, and confident to engage the world. By removing Entry Visa barriers, we are making it easier for our people to travel, for tourists to visit, for investors to explore opportunities, and for our bilateral relationship with the United Arab Emirates to deepen in a very practical way,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Under the Agreement, citizens of Papua New Guinea holding valid diplomatic, official, and ordinary passports will be eligible to enter the United Arab Emirates without a pre-arranged Visa, with Visa-Free Entry or Visa on Arrival for a period of up to 30 days.
In reciprocity, Papua New Guinea will extend the same privilege to UAE Passport Holders of all categories, allowing them to enter Papua New Guinea and remain in the country for up to 30 days without the need to apply for a Visa in advance, with Visa on Arrival arrangements in place.
Prime Minister Marape said the mutual nature of the Agreement underscores trust and respect between the two Governments.
“This is not a one-sided arrangement. It is a balanced, reciprocal Agreement that reflects mutual confidence between our two nations. Papua New Guinea is equally ready to welcome visitors from the UAE, whether they are tourists, business people, investors, or officials,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the Agreement directly supports the Government’s broader Economic Reset agenda, particularly in positioning Papua New Guinea as an emerging destination for tourism and international investment as the country goes beyond 50 years of Independence as a nation.
“Tourism does not grow in isolation. It grows when access is easy, when travel is seamless, and when countries are connected. This Visa Waiver Agreement strengthens direct connectivity between Papua New Guinea and global transit hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, opening doors for increased visitor arrivals and commercial engagement,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He noted that the UAE’s role as a global aviation, logistics, and financial hub presents strategic opportunities for Papua New Guinea in areas such as trade facilitation, investment promotion, agriculture exports, fisheries, energy, and downstream processing.
“Dubai is a gateway to the world. By strengthening our relationship with the UAE, we are positioning Papua New Guinea to better connect with markets across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia. This Agreement will help stimulate trade, attract investment, and expand our international footprint,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape also acknowledged that the Agreement aligns with international standards and safeguards, including passport security, border controls, and compliance with national laws of both countries.
“While we are opening our doors, we are doing so responsibly. The Agreement maintains strong standards on security, documentation, and lawful conduct, ensuring that mobility goes hand-in-hand with national interest and public safety,” he said.
The Prime Minister thanked the Government of the United Arab Emirates for its partnership and goodwill, and acknowledged the efforts of officials from both sides who worked to conclude the Agreement.
“I sincerely thank the leadership of the United Arab Emirates for this important step forward. Today’s signing is more than a technical Agreement – it is a statement of friendship, trust, and shared ambition between our two nations,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to building meaningful, results-driven international partnerships.
“As Papua New Guinea resets its future outlook, we will continue to engage with countries that have succeeded through innovation, connectivity, and openness. This Agreement with the UAE is a strong example of how diplomacy can deliver real, tangible benefits for our people,” Prime Minister Marape said.