Dubai Visit Visa: Your Ultimate Guide to Requirements, Process & Tips

Dubai is a dazzling destination known for its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture. Whether you're planning a short vacation, a business trip, or a family visit, securing a Dubai visit visa is the first step.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Dubai visit visa, including types, requirements, application process, costs, and expert tips for a hassle-free experience.

Types of Dubai Visit Visas

Dubai offers different types of visit visas depending on the purpose and duration of your stay.

1. Tourist Visa

• 14-Day Visa – Short-term visa for quick trips.

• 30-Day Visa – Standard tourist visa (single or multiple entry).

• 60-Day Visa – Extended stay for travelers exploring more of Dubai.

2. Transit Visa

• 48-Hour Visa – For short layovers.

• 96-Hour Visa – Allows a 4-day stay for transit passengers.

3. Visit Visa for Family & Friends

• Sponsored by a UAE resident or citizen.

• Valid for 30, 60, or 90 days.

4. Multiple-Entry Visa

• Ideal for frequent travelers (valid for 6 months to 5 years).

Dubai Visit Visa Requirements

To apply for a Dubai visit visa, you need the following documents:

For Tourists

• Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months).

• Passport-sized photograph (white background).

• Confirmed flight tickets.

• Hotel booking or accommodation proof.

• Travel insurance (mandatory in some cases).

For Family/ Friend Visit Visa

• Sponsor’s Emirates ID & passport copy.

• Proof of relationship (if applicable).

• Salary certificate or bank statement of the sponsor.

For Business Visa

• Invitation letter from a UAE-based company.

• Company trade license copy.

How to Apply for a Dubai Visit Visa

There are multiple ways to apply for a Dubai visit visa:

1. Through Airlines

• Emirates, FlyDubai, and Etihad offer visa services for passengers.

2. Via UAE-Based Hotels & Travel Agencies

• Many hotels and agencies assist with visa processing.

3. Online Visa Portals

• Apply through the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).

4. Through a Sponsor (Resident or Company)

• UAE residents can sponsor family or friends.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Choose the right visa type based on your travel purpose.

2. Gather required documents (passport, photo, tickets, etc.).

3. Submit the application online or through an agency.

4. Pay the visa fee (varies by type and duration).

5. Wait for approval (usually 3-5 working days).

6. Receive the e-visa via email.

Dubai Visit Visa Cost (2024)

The cost depends on the visa type and processing method:

Visa Type	Duration	Approx. Cost (AED)
14-Day Tourist Visa	14 days	250-350 AED
30-Day Tourist Visa	30 days	350-500 AED
60-Day Tourist Visa	60 days	800-1,000 AED
90-Day Visit Visa	90 days	1,000-1,500 AED
Multiple-Entry Visa	6 months	1,500-2,500 AED

Note: Prices may vary based on service providers and processing time.

Dubai Visa Processing Time

• Standard Processing: 3-5 working days.

• Express Processing: 24-48 hours (additional fee applies).

• Urgent Processing: Same-day (only in special cases).

Dubai Visa Extension & Overstay Rules

Visa Extension

• Possible before the visa expires (additional fees apply).

• Extensions can be done online via ICA or GDRFA portals.

Overstay Penalties

• First day: 200 AED.

• Each subsequent day: 100 AED (max penalty of 5,000 AED).

• Blacklisting risk for excessive overstaying.

Common Reasons for Dubai Visa Rejection

• Incomplete documents (missing passport copy, photo, etc.).

• Invalid passport (less than 6 months validity).

• Criminal record or security concerns.

• Previous visa violations in the UAE.

• Insufficient financial proof.

Tip: Double-check all details before submitting your application.

Tips for a Smooth Dubai Visa Application

✅ Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your trip.
✅ Ensure your passport has 6+ months validity.
✅ Book refundable flights & hotels in case of delays.
✅ Use official government portals to avoid scams.
✅ Check visa status online via ICA or GDRFA.

FAQs About Dubai Visit Visa

1. Can I get a Dubai visa on arrival?

• Citizens of 50+ countries (including the US, UK, EU, Australia) get a free 30-90 day visa on arrival.

2. Can I convert a visit visa to a work visa?

• Yes, if you secure a job in Dubai, your employer can process the change.

3. Is travel insurance mandatory?

• For some visas, yes. It’s recommended for all travelers.

4. Can I extend my 30-day tourist visa?

• Yes, for an additional 30 days (apply before expiry).

5. What if my visa is rejected?

• Reapply after correcting errors or consult a visa expert.

Conclusion

Securing a Dubai visit visa is simple if you follow the right steps. Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, or family reasons, this guide covers all the essential details.

Plan ahead, submit accurate documents, and enjoy your Dubai adventure