How to Get a Visa to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) — home to Dubai and Abu Dhabi — is one of the world’s most visited destinations. Entry requirements depend on your nationality and purpose of travel. Many visitors can enter visa-free or get a visa on arrival, while others must apply in advance or use the UAE’s eVisa system. Long-term stays require residence permits sponsored by employers, family, or investment.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main types, and how to apply step by step.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry:
Citizens of GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait) can enter freely with only a passport/ID. - Visa on arrival (VOA):
Citizens of Australia, UK, USA, EU nations, Canada, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia and others can get a free or paid visa on arrival (usually 30–90 days). - Advance visa required:
Nationals of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, most African nations need to apply for a visa in advance or use an UAE-based airline/host to sponsor an eVisa.
✅ Check your eligibility on the UAE government portal: https://u.ae
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-Free / VOA | Tourism, business (eligible countries) | 30–90 days depending on nationality |
| Tourist Visa (eVisa) | Tourism, visiting family/friends | 30 or 90 days (single or multiple entry) |
| Transit Visa | Connecting flights via UAE | 48 or 96 hours |
| Business Visa | Meetings, conferences | 30–90 days |
| Golden Visa | Long-term residency for investors, talents | 5–10 years |
| Employment Visa + Residence Permit | Work in the UAE | 2–3 years, renewable |
| Student Visa | Study in UAE universities | 1 year renewable |
| Family Residence Visa | Joining spouse/parents/children | 1–3 years, renewable |
3. Applying for a Tourist Visa (If Not Visa-Free)
Step 1 — Choose How to Apply
- Through an airline: Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia, and FlyDubai offer tourist visas if you book flights with them.
- Through hotels or travel agencies: Many UAE-based hotels can sponsor your visa.
- Through the official ICP or GDRFA portals:
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
Commonly required:
- Passport valid 6+ months from entry date
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Completed visa application form
- Flight and hotel booking (or host invitation)
- Proof of funds (bank statement or pay slip)
- Visa fee payment
Step 3 — Pay the Visa Fee
- 30-day tourist visa: ~AED 350–500 (USD $95–135)
- 90-day tourist visa: ~AED 900–1200 (USD $245–330)
Step 4 — Processing Time
- Usually 3–5 working days (some express services 24–48 hrs).
Step 5 — Receive Your eVisa
- Visa is sent by email — print or keep a digital copy to show airlines and immigration.
4. Transit Visa
If you’re connecting through Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other UAE airports:
- 48-hour transit visa: Free (must apply at least 48 hrs before travel).
- 96-hour transit visa: ~AED 50–100 (USD $15–30).
- Apply through your airline (Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, Air Arabia).
- Requires onward ticket and passport valid 6+ months.
5. Long-Term and Work Visas
Employment Visa + Residence Permit
- Employer Sponsorship: Your UAE employer applies for a work entry permit.
- Medical Exam & Emirates ID: After arrival, you undergo a medical test and apply for an Emirates ID.
- Residence Visa Issued: Typically valid for 2–3 years and renewable.
Student Visa
- University sponsorship required.
- Requires admission letter, passport, photos, proof of funds, and medical exam.
Golden Visa (5–10 years)
- For investors, entrepreneurs, top talent, scientists, outstanding students, and professionals in priority sectors.
- Apply via https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae or Dubai’s GDRFA portal.
6. Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival | Free – AED 100 (varies by nationality) |
| 30-Day Tourist Visa | AED 350–500 |
| 90-Day Tourist Visa | AED 900–1200 |
| Transit 48 hrs | Free |
| Transit 96 hrs | AED 50–100 |
| Employment Visa | Paid by employer (AED 2,000–5,000 avg.) |
| Student Visa | AED 2,500–3,000 avg. |
| Golden Visa | AED 2,800–4,800 application/issuance |
Fees vary by nationality, sponsor, and emirate. Always check with your airline, employer, or official portal.
7. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Check eligibility: Some passports can extend visa-free stay or convert to long-term visas easily.
- Use airline/hotel sponsorship: Often faster and reliable for tourist visas.
- Keep your passport valid: At least 6 months beyond your planned stay.
- Avoid overstaying: Fines are AED 50–100/day.
- Travel insurance: Recommended (some airlines make it mandatory).
- For work visas: Wait for your employer’s approval before entering on a tourist visa — status change fees apply if you convert later.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Printed eVisa or confirmation of VOA eligibility
- Flight & hotel bookings or host invitation
- Proof of funds (if asked)
- Travel insurance (recommended/required)