- Quick Answers to Common Dubai Visa Questions
- Dubai Visa Overview
- Do You Need a Visa to Visit Dubai?
- Types of Dubai Visas
- Visa Duration vs. Entry Validity: Don’t Overstay!
- Required Documents to Apply for Your Dubai Visa
- Dubai Visa Fees & Costs
- How to Apply for a Dubai Visa (Step-by-Step)
- Can Your Dubai Visa Be Extended?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ About Dubai Visas
- What a Dubai Visa Means: A Dubai visa is official authorization from the UAE authorities to enter and stay for a fixed period.
- Nationality-Based Entry Rules: Dubai visa requirements depend entirely on nationality, with different rules for visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and prearranged visas.
- Tourist Visa Pricing: Costs vary by visa type, stay duration, processing speed, and application method, starting from around AED 200.
- Refund Policy: Visa fees are generally non-refundable once processing begins, with only limited partial refunds in rare cases.
- Processing Time: Most tourist visas are approved within 2–5 business days when documents are complete.
- Visa Extensions: Tourist visas can usually be extended once or twice, allowing stays of up to about 120 days for an extra fee.
- Passport Validity Rule: All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the entry date.
- Required Documents: Applications typically require a valid passport, photo, flight ticket, accommodation proof, and sponsor documents if applicable.
Quick Answers to Common Dubai Visa Questions
Here you can see a brief overview of the most important Dubai visa questions to help you understand requirements, costs, processing times, and extensions before reading the full guide below.
Generally no. Visa fees are usually non-refundable once processing starts, and only a partial refund may be issued. Always check refund terms with your airline or agency before paying.
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries in Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East can enter Dubai visa-free or with a visa on arrival, while nationals of some African and South Asian countries must apply for a visa in advance.
Visa fees depend on the type, stay duration, speed, and application method. A 30-day tourist visa costs around AED 200, but the total cost can rise with taxes, service, or urgent charges.
Most tourist visas are processed within 2–5 business days, but delays can happen. Applying early is recommended.
Dubai Visa Overview
A Dubai visa is your official permission to enter the UAE, issued by the UAE government. It lets you stay in Dubai (and the UAE) legally for a specific period. For example, a typical tourist visa might allow stays of 30 or 60 days. Each visa has clear rules on how long it is valid and how long you can remain in the country.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Dubai?
Whether you need a visa depends primarily on your nationality and travel plans. The UAE has one of the most flexible entry systems in the world. Here’s the basic entry rule by nationality:
| Visa Status | Who It Applies To | Duration | Key Notes |
| Visa-free / Visa on Arrival | GCC citizens and nationals of 70+ countries (US, UK, EU, Australia, China, Japan, etc.) | 30 or 90 days | US and EU citizens usually get a 90-day multiple-entry visa; some countries get 30 days |
| Special Case – Indian Passport Holders | Indian citizens with a valid US, UK, or EU residence visa or a US Green Card | 14 days | Online pre-approval required; residence permit must be valid for at least 6 months; fee applies |
| All Other Nationalities | Visa must be arranged in advance via the airline, travel agency, or sponsor | Varies | The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the entry date |
| Passport Validity | All travelers | — | Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the entry date |
Summary: Most travelers from GCC countries and over 70 nationalities can enter Dubai visa-free or with a visa on arrival for 30 or 90 days. Indian passport holders with a valid US, UK, or EU residence permit may receive a 14-day visa on arrival with pre-approval. All other nationalities must apply for a visa in advance, and all passports must be valid for at least six months.
I suggest reading the article, ” How many days do you need in Dubai.
Types of Dubai Visas
Dubai offers several visa types for visitors, but the main ones for short visits are the tourist/visit visas and transit visas. Below are the options you’ll most likely use:
1- Visa on Arrival (Most Common Option)
Visa on Arrival is the easiest option for eligible travelers. No advance application is required; you receive your entry stamp at the UAE immigration upon arrival.
Who qualifies:
- Citizens of GCC countries and about 70+ nationalities
- Includes the US, UK, EU countries, Australia, China, Japan, and more
Duration:
- 30 days: Many Asian, Middle Eastern, and some European countries
- 90 days (multiple-entry): US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
- Exception: Mexican citizens may receive up to 180 days
Conditions:
- Usually free of charge
- Return or onward ticket required
- Indian passport holders with valid US/UK/EU residence permits may receive a 14-day visa on arrival (fees in Dubai apply)
Advantages:
- No paperwork before travel
- Fast airport processing
- Flexible entry for 90-day visas
2- Prearranged Tourist Visa (Required for Non-Eligible Nationalities)
If you are not eligible for a visa on arrival or need a longer stay, you must apply for a tourist visa before traveling.
Who needs it:
- Nationals not on the visa-on-arrival list
- Travelers wanting longer stays or specific visa types
How to apply:
- Airlines: Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, Air Arabia (for ticketed passengers)
- Hotels or tour operators: Apply as your local sponsor
- Licensed travel agencies or UAE residents: Family, friends, or agencies can sponsor
Visa lengths:
- Common options: 30 days and 60 days
- Some providers offer 90-day visas
- Single-entry or multiple-entry options available
Note: The UAE also offers a 5-year multi-entry tourist visa (90 days per visit) for frequent travelers, with higher requirements and fees.
3- Other Dubai Visa Types (Brief Overview)
In addition to tourist visas, Dubai offers several other visa types for specific purposes:
- Transit Visa: Short layovers (48 or 96 hours) for travelers passing through UAE airports
- Work Visa: For employment in the UAE (requires employer sponsorship)
- Residence Visa: For long-term living (work, family, or property-based)
- Student Visa: For studying at UAE educational institutions
- 5-Year Multi-Entry Tourist Visa: Long-term option for frequent visitors (90 days per visit)
- Family Visit Visa: Sponsored by UAE residents for relatives
Visa Duration vs. Entry Validity: Don’t Overstay!
Visa Duration refers to how long you can stay in the UAE once you enter, while Visa Validity is the time period during which you must enter the UAE using that visa. For a clearer view of the differences, see the table below:
| Visa Type | Stay Length (Duration) | Entry Window (Validity) | Notes |
| 30-day single-entry | 30 days from entry | Usually valid for 60 days from issuance | Must enter within validity, then stay 30 days |
| 60-day single-entry | 60 days from entry | Usually valid for 60 days from issuance | Entry and stay period equal |
| 90-day multiple-entry | 90 days from entry | Usually valid for 90 days from issuance | Often issued to relatives/friends; multiple entries allowed |
Tip: Always check both dates; overstaying incurs fines (~AED 50/day)
Required Documents to Apply for Your Dubai Visa
Every visa application needs supporting documents. Typical requirements include:
- Passport copy: Clear scan/photo of the bio page; must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Passport-size photo: Recent color photo with white background; follow UAE photo rules.
- Travel itinerary: Confirmed return or onward flight ticket matching your visa dates.
- Accommodation proof: Hotel reservation or, if staying with family/friends, a copy of their UAE resident visa or tenancy contract.
- Sponsor documents (if applicable): Emirates ID or trade license of sponsor.
- Additional documents: Bank statements, employment letter, or proof of funds (depending on visa type and country).
- Passport cover page: Recent UAE requirement, submit a copy of the passport’s outer cover along with the bio page.
Note: Along with your flight and accommodation, arranging transportation in advance can help avoid last-minute stress.
Many visitors choose to rent a car in Dubai right after their visa approval to save time and control travel costs, and it’s important to prepare the required documents for renting a car in Dubai (such as a passport, a valid driving license or IDP, a visa, and other paperwork) before arrival.
Dubai Visa Fees & Costs
Visa fees vary by visa type, duration, sponsor, and issuing emirate. Official government visa fees (as of 2025) are roughly:
| Visa Type | Base Fee (AED) | Additional Charges | Notes |
| 30-day single-entry | 200 | Knowledge & Innovation Dirham (AED 20) + 5% VAT (~AED 10) | Total ~240 AED; agency/service fees extra |
| 60-day single-entry | 300 | Knowledge & Innovation Dirham + 5% VAT | Agency fees extra |
| 90-day single-entry | 400 | Knowledge & Innovation Dirham + 5% VAT | Often for relatives/friends, agency fees are extra |
| 5-year multi-entry | Varies | Knowledge & Innovation Dirham + 5% VAT | 90-day stay per visit; issued by federal ICP |
| Visa Extension | ~500 | + AED 100 processing | Overstay fines ~AED 50/day |
Note: Visa fees are generally non-refundable once the application process starts. If your visa is rejected after payment, you may only receive a partial refund. Always check the terms with your agency or airline before paying.
How to Apply for a Dubai Visa (Step-by-Step)
- Check your eligibility and choose the visa type and duration.
- Gather all required documents: passport (including cover page), photo, flight tickets, hotel bookings, and sponsor documents if needed.
- Select an application channel: airline portal, UAE government portal, or licensed travel agency/sponsor.
- Submit your application and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for approval (usually 2–3 business days).
- Print a color copy of your e-visa to carry with you.
- Apply 2–4 weeks before travel and track your application online if possible.
- Use official channels or trusted agencies to avoid delays.
Can Your Dubai Visa Be Extended?
Yes, most Dubai tourist visas can be extended, but rules apply. In general:
- Extension length: Usually once or twice, up to a total stay of 120 days. Each extension costs roughly AED 500 + processing fee.
- Timing: Apply before your current visa expires to avoid fines (~AED 50/day) or travel bans.
- Process: Extend at an Amer Center, airport counter, or online via ICP; submit passport, flight ticket, and pay the fee.
Tip: Extensions are at the discretion of immigration; plan in advance. Usually, you can extend once or twice before needing to exit and re-enter the UAE.
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s visa rules depend on your nationality: some travelers get visa-free or on-arrival entry, while others need a prearranged visa. Always check official sources like ICP UAE, GDRFA Dubai, or trusted airlines, and stay updated, since rules can change (e.g., Indian visa-on-arrival, passport cover requirement). Make sure your passport is valid, confirm your visa eligibility, gather all necessary documents, and apply through official channels.
Whether you’re visiting for tourism or business, choosing a reliable car rental service in Dubai, such as Saadatrent ae, can significantly improve your overall experience.
FAQ About Dubai Visas
Only if your nationality is on the UAE’s visa-free or visa-on-arrival list. GCC citizens don’t need a visa. Others must apply in advance. Always check official sources.
No. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry. Renew it before booking if needed.
No. Tourist visas are for leisure, meetings, or family visits only. Work requires a separate employment visa. Unauthorized work can lead to fines, deportation, or bans.
Typically, 2–5 business days for tourist visas. Transit visas can be faster. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip.
Denials are rare with correct documents. You may get a partial refund. Check the reason and reapply from outside the UAE if needed.
