Prime Minister James Marape on 4 February 2026 welcomed the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding on Mutual Exemption of Entry Visa Requirements between Papua New Guinea and the United Arab Emirates, describing it as a major step in strengthening bilateral relations and creating new pathways for tourism, trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
The Agreement was signed on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 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 demonstrating strong economic growth, innovation, and global connectivity.
“This Agreement signals that Papua New Guinea is open, ready, and confident to engage the world. By removing entry visa barriers, we make it easier for our people to travel, for tourists to visit, for investors to explore opportunities, and for our bilateral relationship with the UAE to deepen in very practical ways,” he said.
Under the Agreement, citizens of Papua New Guinea holding valid diplomatic, official, or ordinary passports can enter the UAE without a pre-arranged visa, enjoying visa-free entry or visa on arrival for up to 30 days. In reciprocity, UAE passport holders of all categories can enter Papua New Guinea under the same conditions, with visa on arrival arrangements for up to 30 days.
Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the mutual nature of the Agreement underscores trust and respect between the two governments.
“This is not a one-sided arrangement. It is balanced and reciprocal, reflecting mutual confidence between our nations. Papua New Guinea is ready to welcome visitors from the UAE, whether they are tourists, businesspeople, investors, or officials,” he said.
He noted that the Agreement 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 surpasses 50 years of independence.
“Tourism grows when access is easy, travel is seamless, and countries are connected. This Visa Waiver Agreement strengthens direct connectivity between Papua New Guinea and global hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, opening doors for increased visitor arrivals and commercial engagement,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the UAE’s strategic importance as a global aviation, logistics, and financial hub, presenting opportunities in trade facilitation, investment promotion, agriculture exports, fisheries, energy, and downstream processing.
“Dubai is a gateway to the world. Strengthening our relationship with the UAE positions 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.
He added that the Agreement aligns with international standards on passport security, border control, and compliance with national laws.
“While we are opening our doors, we are doing so responsibly. The Agreement maintains strong standards on security, documentation, and lawful conduct, ensuring mobility goes hand-in-hand with national interest and public safety,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape thanked the UAE government for its partnership and acknowledged the efforts of officials from both sides in concluding 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 nations,” he said.
He reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to 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.
