Finland is a country in northern Europe famous for its lakes, breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and winter sports. You must travel to Finland’s numerous islands and archipelagos. Lapland is one of the most unusual places to go on an adventure or for sightseeing. A few highlights include the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Light, reindeer safaris, and Santa Claus Village. All you need to do is submit an application for a Finland visa for UAE citizens, and you can visit this country at any time of year and find a variety of things to do.
Finland visa for UAE residents
If Finland is your primary destination, you must apply for a visa at the centre designated by a Finnish mission, at that mission, or at a Schengen country mission that is Finland’s representative. Visa for one entry, which entitles the bearer to one entry into Finland and a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Visa with two entries that allow for up to 90 days of travel within the Schengen region in any 180-day period. Only applications for short-term visas are accepted at the Finland Visa Application Centre in the UAE. In addition to having at least two empty pages in the passport, it must be valid for at least three months after the intended stay in Finland.
Reasons to visit Finland
Exotic natural environment
In Finland, there are tens of thousands of lakes, and they are all surrounded by breathtaking forested hills and valleys. Here, unlike anywhere else, you can see the magnificent aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, as well as snow-capped mountains and trees, unspoiled, exotic nature, and more! Visit Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, which is situated in the lovely Lakeland region. Additionally, as long as you don’t annoy any nearby residents or the natural environment, Finland’s “Right to Roam” law allows you to pitch a tent wherever you like.
Amiable and kind locals
Finns adore their country and are proud of both its natural and cultural splendour. They will always give you a friendly smile and a warm welcome before giving you a brief overview of their way of life.
Beautiful buildings
Finland has beautiful architecture that is deeply rooted in its natural surroundings. Finnish architect Alvar Aalto created a number of breathtakingly beautiful buildings using only simple shapes, details, and organic materials.
Excellent National Parks
Discover Finland’s breathtaking national parks, which are home to amazing wildlife, lovely lakes, forests, mountains, and rolling river valleys. Here in Finland, you can see reindeer, grouse, and king eagles grazing freely. Visit the national parks of Nuuksio or Oulanka, which are excellent for those who want to experience nature and wildlife.
Skiing in fresh snow
Take in the breathtaking scenery as you ski down one of Finland’s many difficult mountains on powdery, fine snow. Lapland’s Kittilä offers fantastic skiing opportunities. You can visit the ski areas in Ylvas or Levi, both of which have beautiful scenery and are a lot of fun.
Super shopping location
In Finland’s numerous charming shops and expansive shopping malls, you can find textiles, jewellery, furniture, and much more at iconic, opulent, and affordable prices. The Stockmann Department Store in Helsinki, which has more than 50,000 square metres spread across ten floors, is Scandinavia’s largest shopping centre and is highly recommended.
Unique cuisines
Why not go to one of Finland’s many eateries and enjoy delectable food from the natural bounty of the country, such as chanterelle soup, blueberry pie, or exquisite fresh salmon? Unquestionably, those seeking a unique dining experience, authentic Finnish cuisine, mouthwatering flavours, and wild herbs should visit Restaurant Juuri in Helsinki.
Finnish sauna
A Finnish sauna is an important part of Finnish culture and is used for social and business gatherings, as well as for health and relaxation. Consider going to a sauna that is 40 metres above the ground. Views of Helsinki and the surrounding sea are available from the sauna trolley on the Skywheel Ferris wheel at the Helsinki Market Square.
Top Destinations to visit Finland
Helsinki
Helsinki is the most visited place in Finland because it was built in the same architectural style as St. Petersburg in 1812. There are many churches there, including the Lutheran Cathedral, Church in the Rock, and Uspenski Cathedral. Both the stadium where the 1952 Olympics were held, and the Parliament House’s art deco design are worthwhile visits. Numerous prestigious museums and art galleries can be found in Helsinki, including the National Museum of Finland, which documents Finnish history throughout time.
Rovaniemi
At the end of World War II, Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, was completely destroyed. It is home to a number of attractions, including the Santa Claus Post Office, Santa Claus Village, and an underground amusement park with a Santa theme. A few non-Christmas attractions include the Pilke Science Centre, the Jätkänkynttilä Bridge, and the Korundi House of Culture.
Savonlinna
A small town In the heart of Finnish Lakeland is Savonlinna. The area’s main attraction is Olavinlinna, or St. Olaf’s Castle, a building from the fifteenth century. Additional attractions include the Orthodox Museum, the Savonlinna Provincial Museum, and Kerimäki, the largest wooden church in the world. Muikku, a traditional herring dish, is available from nearby vendors in the market square.
Turku
Turku, a city on the southern Finnish coast, was Finland’s capital for much of the 19th century and is thought to be the oldest city in the nation. Despite Helsinki having long since displaced Turku as the nation’s capital, Turku continues to be a well-liked travel destination in Finland and is home to many historical attractions and cultural landmarks. Among the top places to visit in Turku are the 13th-century Turku Castle, the twin museums Aboa Vetus and Ars Nova, and the neighbourhood of Luostarinmäki, one of the few buildings that survived the city’s fire in the early 19th century.
Porvoo
The distinctive and picturesque wooden homes of Porvoo, Finland’s second-oldest town, are well known. While walking through Old Porvoo’s cobblestone streets, also known to locals as Vanha Porvoo, you can still see structures that date back to the 13th century, even though the majority of the wooden architecture there was constructed at the end of the 19th century. The 11th-century Porvoo Cathedral, the Porvoo Museum, and indulging in delectable regional pastries and candies at the city’s iconic Brunberg shop are just a few of the fantastic things to do in Porvoo.
Finnish Lakeland
As the name suggests, there are numerous lakes in the region of Finland known as the Finnish Lakeland. Here, there are about 55,000 lakes with a minimum width of 200 metres (660 feet)! The region is situated in central and eastern Finland and is bordered by the magnificent Salpausselkä Ridges as well as the Russian border. The largest lake in the region is Lake Saimaa, where you can go swimming, boating, or just hiking the lake’s perimeter to enjoy the scenery. While in Finnish Lakeland, you can also visit the mediaeval St. Olaf’s Castle and the university town of Jyväskylä.
Aland Archipelago
The Aland Archipelago, a collection of islands in Finland’s Baltic Sea, is located there. Ferries transport visitors between the islands, and there are sights like the Pommern, the Aland Maritime Museum, Kastelholm Castle, and hiking trails. The dessert pancake from the archipelago’s cuisine, which is served with whipped cream and stewed plums on top, is what people most associate it with.
Tampere
Tampere, the third-largest city in Finland, resembles a collection of neighbourhoods more than a larger city. Explore the Vapriikki Museum complex to learn more about the area’s heritage and history. Outdoor activities like hockey and skiing are common, but those who aren’t as athletic can go for a stroll in parks like Hatanpää Arboretum or Duck Park. The well-known Särkänniemi Adventure Park, which is located on the outskirts of the city, includes a children’s zoo, aquarium, planetarium, art gallery, and observation tower with breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and lakes.
Levi
Finland’s vast expanse of undeveloped land makes it a haven for nature lovers. Without a doubt, Levi’s winter resort is the best place for outdoor enthusiasts to have a good time. The Finnish Lapland town of Levi has miles of ski and snowboarding trails. There are also opportunities for more unusual activities like reindeer safaris, ice fishing excursions, and relaxing in large outdoor saunas. Levi’s nightlife is a major draw for Finns, so make sure you check out the bars, lounges and clubs in Central Levi before you depart.
Kemi
Kemi, a city in Finnish Lapland, is best known for its pulp mills when it comes to industry. Tourists, however, are most familiar with Kemi as the location of the recognisable snow castle. Every year, a new castle is constructed, which can be three stories tall and is used for weddings and live musical performances. Visitors can even spend the night in the snow hotel if they so choose! In search of breathtaking icebergs and breathtaking views, the Arctic icebreaker tour departs from Kemi and travels through the Arctic waters. Additionally, Kemi has a thriving nightlife.