New year, new travel goals! As of January 1, 2025, UAE residents with Schengen visas have two exciting additions to their travel list: Romania and Bulgaria. These vibrant nations officially joined the Schengen Area, marking a monumental step in European integration and opening up a world of border-free travel for adventure seekers.
Two New Destinations To Explore By UAE Travellers With Schengen Visa
Romania and Bulgaria’s inclusion in the Schengen Area adds up to 29 countries in this border-free zone. For UAE travellers, this means no passport checks or additional paperwork to explore the cultural treasures and scenic wonders of these Eastern European gems.
Both countries boast an irresistible mix of historic charm and natural beauty. Picture yourself wandering through Romania’s medieval towns, exploring Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania, or hiking the Carpathian Mountains. In Bulgaria, the allure of ancient ruins, pristine beaches along the Black Sea, and the iconic Rila Monastery await your discovery.
After rigorous negotiations and reforms, they finally received the EU’s unanimous approval in December 2024. The final cherry on top? The removal of air and sea border checks earlier this year, ensured seamless integration into Europe’s most extensive travel zone.
What It Means For UAE Travellers
For residents in the UAE holding a Schengen visa, this is a game-changer. No more hunting down extra documentation or navigating visa red tape for a quick getaway to Bucharest or Sofia. With Romania and Bulgaria now on the map, your European escapades just got a major upgrade.
The Schengen Area now connects nearly 450 million people across 29 nations, standing as a testament to European unity and seamless collaboration. For travellers, it’s a golden ticket to endless exploration, from Eastern Europe’s hidden gems to its well-trodden tourist hotspots.
Also Read: VOX Cinemas Reopens 18-Screen Multiplex In Dubai Featuring IMAX, Gold And More
Pack Your Bags!
Ready to tick Romania and Bulgaria off your bucket list? With their Schengen membership official, these two countries are now more accessible, more inviting, and more thrilling than ever. Get your Schengen visa ready, book your tickets, and dive into a world of new experiences waiting just beyond the horizon.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images