UAE Visa & Entry Information
Complete guide to visa requirements, applications, Emirates ID, and staying safe in the UAE
Do You Need an Entry Permit/Visa to Enter the UAE?
Citizens of certain countries can enter the UAE without obtaining a visa in advance:
GCC Countries
- • Bahrain
- • Kuwait
- • Oman
- • Qatar
- • Saudi Arabia
Select Countries
- • United Kingdom
- • United States
- • Canada, Australia, New Zealand
- • Most EU countries
- • Japan, Singapore, South Korea
- • And 70+ others (check official list)
Multiple entry, valid for 6 months from issue date
Note: Visa on arrival is stamped free of charge for eligible nationalities. You can stay for up to 90 days, with the option to extend once for another 90 days for a fee.
Important: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
Indian Nationals - Visa on Arrival
Indian passport holders with a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, EU/Schengen, Canada, Australia, Japan, or Singapore can get a 14-day visa on arrival (USD 63 fee). This applies to normal passports with 6+ months validity.
If your nationality is not on the visa-free or visa-on-arrival list, you must obtain a visa before traveling to the UAE.
How to Check:
- • Visit the official ICP UAE website or GDRFA Dubai portal
- • Contact your nearest UAE embassy or consulate
- • Check with your airline or travel agent
Where to Apply for a Visa
UAE Embassies & Consulates
Apply directly at your nearest UAE embassy or consulate in your home country.
Airlines
Many airlines offer visa services when you book your flight to Dubai (e.g., Emirates, Etihad).
Authorized Travel Agents
Licensed travel agencies and tour operators can process visa applications on your behalf.
Hotels in Dubai
Some hotels can sponsor tourist visas for guests with confirmed bookings.
Family/Friends in UAE
UAE residents can sponsor visit visas for family members and friends.
Companies in UAE
UAE companies can sponsor employment visas and business visas for employees and business visitors.
Online Visa Application Portals
ICP UAE (Federal Authority)
Official federal portal for visa services
GDRFA Dubai
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai
Types of UAE Visas
For leisure travelers, sightseers, and holiday visitors.
30-Day Single Entry Tourist Visa
Validity
60 days from issue
Stay Duration
30 days
Entries
Single
Extendable
Yes (once)
Can be extended for an additional 30 days
90-Day Single/Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
Validity
60 days from issue
Stay Duration
90 days
Entries
Single/Multiple
Extendable
No
Multiple entry option allows unlimited entries within validity period
5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
Validity
5 years
Stay Per Visit
90 days
Entries
Multiple
Extendable
Yes
Can extend stay to 180 days total per visit
For travelers transiting through UAE airports with layovers.
48-Hour Transit Visa
- • Valid for 48 hours from arrival
- • Can leave airport during layover
- • Available through airlines
- • Often provided free by airlines
96-Hour Transit Visa
- • Valid for 96 hours (4 days)
- • Extended layover option
- • Allows short Dubai visit
- • Apply through airline or online
Sponsored by UAE residents for visiting family members and friends.
Requirements for Sponsor:
- • UAE resident with valid residence visa
- • Minimum salary requirement (varies by relationship)
- • Copy of passport and Emirates ID
- • Proof of relationship (for family)
- • Security deposit may be required
Duration Options:
30-Day Visit Visa
Extendable twice
90-Day Visit Visa
Long-term visits
For individuals planning to live and work in the UAE long-term.
Employment Visa
Sponsored by UAE employer for employees.
- • Requires employment contract
- • Valid for 2-3 years (renewable)
- • Includes work permit
- • Medical fitness test required
Family Sponsorship Visa
For dependents of UAE residents (spouse, children, parents).
- • Minimum salary requirement applies
- • Valid housing required
- • Same validity as sponsor's visa
- • Includes spouse and children under 18
Investor/Partner Visa
For business owners, investors, and partners in UAE companies.
- • Requires company ownership/partnership
- • Valid for 2-3 years
- • Can sponsor employees and family
- • Trade license required
Golden Visa (10 Years)
Long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, and outstanding students.
- • Valid for 10 years (renewable)
- • No sponsor required
- • Can sponsor family members
- • Specific eligibility criteria apply
Retirement Visa
For retirees aged 55+ who wish to reside in the UAE.
- • Valid for 5 years (renewable)
- • Financial requirements apply
- • Property ownership option
- • Savings/pension requirements
Visa Fees
Fees are approximate and subject to change. Service fees from agents may apply.
| Visa Type | Duration | Approximate Fee (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48-Hour Transit Visa | 48 hours | Free - AED 50 | Often free via airlines |
| 96-Hour Transit Visa | 96 hours | AED 200 - 250 | Short stopover |
| 30-Day Tourist Visa (Single) | 30 days | AED 350 - 450 | + service fees |
| 30-Day Tourist Visa Extension | +30 days | AED 850 - 1000 | One-time extension |
| 90-Day Tourist Visa (Single) | 90 days | AED 600 - 800 | Long stay |
| 90-Day Tourist Visa (Multiple) | 90 days | AED 1,740 - 2,000 | Multiple entries |
| 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist | 5 years | AED 650 + AED 3,000 deposit | Deposit refundable |
| 30-Day Visit Visa | 30 days | AED 300 - 500 | Sponsored by resident |
| 90-Day Visit Visa | 90 days | AED 1,000 - 1,200 | Sponsored by resident |
| Overstay Fine | Per day | AED 50 | Standardized rate + service fees |
Additional Costs
- • Entry permit: AED 150-200
- • Status change: AED 500-750
- • Emirates ID: AED 370-500 (2 years)
- • Medical fitness test: AED 300-500
- • Typing and service fees: Variable
Important Notes
- • Fees vary by application channel
- • Service charges not included
- • Subject to government updates
- • VAT may apply to some fees
- • Check official sources for current rates
Track Visa Application and Check Validity
Online Tracking Portals:
ICP UAE Portal
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security
- • Visit icp.gov.ae
- • Enter application number
- • Check real-time status
GDRFA Dubai
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs
- • Visit gdrfad.gov.ae
- • Use application reference number
- • Track Dubai visas
Information Required for Tracking:
- • Application reference number
- • Passport number
- • Date of birth or nationality
- • Sponsor details (if applicable)
Typical Processing Times:
Tourist Visa
3-5 business days
Visit Visa
5-7 business days
Employment Visa
2-4 weeks
Urgent Processing
24-48 hours (extra fee)
It's important to verify your visa status and ensure you don't overstay.
Ways to Check Visa Validity:
- Check your visa stamp: Look at the expiry date stamped in your passport
- ICP UAE website: Use the online visa validity check service
- GDRFA app: Download the GDRFA Dubai app for instant checks
- Visit Amer centers: Get in-person assistance at typing centers
⚠️ Overstay Consequences
- • Daily fine: AED 50 per day (standardized)
- • Additional service fees: AED 100-150
- • Travel ban possibility
- • Deportation and entry ban
- • Always extend or exit before expiry!
Emirates ID
The Emirates ID is a mandatory identity card for all UAE residents (citizens and expatriates). It serves as your official identification and is required for most government and private transactions.
Who Needs Emirates ID?
- • All UAE citizens
- • All residents with valid residence visa
- • Children born in UAE
- • Long-term visa holders
- • Not required for: Tourists and visit visa holders
What's on Emirates ID?
- • Full name in English and Arabic
- • ID number (15 digits)
- • Photograph and signature
- • Date of birth and nationality
- • Validity dates
- • Smart chip with biometric data
Medical Fitness Test
Complete medical test at approved centers (blood test, X-ray, physical exam)
Emirates ID Application
Apply online through ICP UAE portal or visit authorized typing centers
Required: Residence visa copy, passport copy, entry stamp, photo
Biometric Registration
Visit designated centers for fingerprint scan, photo, and signature capture
Pay Fees
Pay applicable fees (approximately AED 370-500 for 2-year validity, including service fees)
Receive Emirates ID
Card delivered by mail or collect from designated centers (7-14 days processing)
Timeline Note
You have 30 days from entry/visa stamping to apply for Emirates ID. Fines apply for late application.
Essential Services:
- • Opening bank accounts
- • Signing rental agreements
- • Utility connections (DEWA, Etisalat)
- • Driving license application
- • SIM card registration
- • School enrollments
Government Services:
- • Visa processing
- • Healthcare registration
- • Business licensing
- • Vehicle registration
- • Digital government services
- • Court and legal services
Renewal Process:
Emirates ID must be renewed before expiry (tied to residence visa validity). Start renewal process 30 days before expiry to avoid fines and service disruptions.
Lost Your Passport with UAE Residence Visa?
Emergency Actions:
- 1
Report to Local Police
File a police report immediately. Get a copy of the report - you'll need it for all further steps.
- 2
Notify Your Embassy/Consulate
Contact your country's embassy in UAE to apply for a new passport or emergency travel document.
- 3
Report to GDRFA
Inform General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs about the lost passport with residence visa.
- 4
Inform Your Sponsor/Employer
Notify your visa sponsor (employer or family member) immediately as they need to assist with visa transfer.
Documents Required:
- • Police report copy
- • Emirates ID copy
- • Passport copy (if available)
- • Residence visa copy/details
- • Sponsor's documents
- • Passport-size photographs
Visa Transfer Process:
Once you receive a new passport from your embassy, you need to transfer your residence visa to the new passport:
- 1. Apply for visa transfer through GDRFA or authorized typing centers
- 2. Submit new passport, police report, Emirates ID, and sponsor documents
- 3. Pay transfer fees (approximately AED 500-750)
- 4. Processing time: 3-7 business days
- 5. Collect passport with transferred visa stamp
Important Notes:
- • You cannot leave UAE without a valid passport and exit stamp
- • Keep photocopies of your passport and visa separately
- • Digital copies on cloud storage are helpful
- • Process can take 2-4 weeks total
- • Ensure your visa doesn't expire during this time
Tips to Stay Safe from Labour and Visa Fraud
⚠️ Warning Signs of Fraud:
- • Guaranteed visa approval promises
- • Unrealistically low fees
- • Requests for full payment upfront
- • No physical office or contact details
- • Pressure to decide quickly
- • Unofficial email addresses
- • Poor English/spelling errors in documents
- • Requests to use personal accounts
✓ Legitimate Practices:
- • Licensed agents with trade license
- • Transparent fee structure
- • Official receipts provided
- • Physical office you can visit
- • Clear refund policies
- • Written contracts
- • Verifiable company registration
- • Professional communication
Verify Before You Pay:
Check License
Verify agent's trade license through DED website
Research Company
Look for online reviews and ratings
Get References
Ask for previous client testimonials
Red Flags in Job Offers:
- Visa selling: Employer asks you to pay for visa (illegal in UAE)
- Passport confiscation: Employer keeps your passport (illegal)
- No written contract: Verbal agreements only
- Different job: Actual role differs from visa/contract
- Unpaid salaries: Delays exceeding company pay cycle
Protect Your Rights:
- Insist on proper employment contract approved by MOHRE
- Verify company's trade license and establishment card
- Keep your passport with you (employer cannot confiscate it)
- Understand your salary and benefits before signing
- Register complaint with MOHRE if rights violated
Emergency Contacts:
- Police Emergency: 999
- Dubai Police: +971 4 609 6111
- MOHRE Helpline: 600 590000
- Consumer Protection: 600 522225
- Economic Crime: 800 22837 (EACAT)
Online Reporting:
- • Dubai Police eCrime portal
- • MOHRE website complaint system
- • Consumer Protection Authority app
- • Economic Department fraud reporting
- • Your embassy/consulate
Remember: Never pay anyone to "buy" a visa. Employment visa costs are the employer's responsibility. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify information through official government channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I extend my tourist visa after arriving in UAE?
Yes, most tourist visas can be extended once for an additional 30 days. Visit any Amer center or authorized typing center with your passport, current visa copy, and pay the extension fee (approximately AED 850-1000). Apply before your current visa expires to avoid penalties.
Do I need a visa if I'm just transiting through Dubai Airport?
If you're staying in the airport transit area and not entering the country, you don't need a visa for most nationalities. However, if you want to leave the airport during your layover, you'll need a transit visa (48-hour or 96-hour) or qualify for visa-free entry. Many airlines offer free transit visas for their passengers with layovers.
How long does it take to get a UAE tourist visa?
Standard processing time is 3-5 business days for tourist visas. However, processing times can vary based on your nationality, application method, and season. During peak tourist seasons, it may take longer. Urgent processing (24-48 hours) is available for an additional fee. Always apply at least 1-2 weeks before your travel date.
Can I work on a tourist visa in UAE?
No, working on a tourist visa is illegal in the UAE. Tourist visas are strictly for tourism, leisure, and visiting purposes only. To work legally, you must have an employment visa sponsored by a UAE employer. Working without proper authorization can result in fines, deportation, and travel bans.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying your visa in the UAE results in a standardized daily fine of AED 50 per day, plus service fees (AED 100-150). Fines accumulate until you exit the country. Extended overstays can lead to additional penalties including deportation, travel bans (1-2 years or more), and difficulty obtaining future UAE visas. Always exit before your visa expires or apply for an extension in advance.
How long is Emirates ID valid for?
Emirates ID validity is linked to your residence visa validity. For residents, it's typically issued for 2-3 years matching your visa period. For UAE citizens, it's valid for 5-10 years depending on age. You must renew your Emirates ID before it expires (start 30 days before expiry) to avoid fines and service disruptions.
Can I sponsor my parents on a visit visa?
Yes, UAE residents can sponsor their parents on visit visas. Requirements include: valid UAE residence visa, minimum salary (typically AED 10,000-20,000 depending on emirate), proof of relationship, accommodation details, and security deposit. Visit visas for parents are usually 30-90 days and can be extended.
Do I need travel insurance for UAE visa?
While not always mandatory for tourist visas, travel/medical insurance is highly recommended and sometimes required depending on your visa type and country of origin. Some visa categories and certain nationalities must show proof of health insurance. It's wise to have coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
Can I convert my tourist visa to a residence visa inside UAE?
Yes, it's possible to change from a tourist visa to a residence visa (employment, investor, or other categories) from within the UAE without leaving the country. This is called a "status change" or "change of status." You'll need a sponsor (employer, family member, or yourself if investor), meet requirements for the new visa category, pass medical tests, and pay applicable fees. The process typically takes 2-3 weeks.
What is the grace period after visa cancellation?
When your residence visa is cancelled (e.g., leaving employment), you typically have a 30-day grace period to either find a new sponsor (change status) or exit the UAE. You cannot work during this grace period. Staying beyond the grace period without a new visa results in overstay fines. Plan your next steps early to avoid complications.
How do I check if I have a travel ban in UAE?
You can check for travel bans through: 1) GDRFA Dubai website or mobile app (enter passport details), 2) ICP UAE portal for federal inquiries, 3) UAE MOHRE website for labour-related bans, 4) Visiting immigration offices in person, or 5) Calling the helplines. It's recommended to check before booking travel if you've had visa issues, unpaid fines, or legal cases in the past.
Can my employer cancel my visa without my knowledge?
Technically, an employer can initiate visa cancellation, but you should receive notification through official channels. UAE law requires employers to provide notice and proper documentation. You can check your visa status anytime through GDRFA/ICP portals using your passport number. If your visa is cancelled without proper procedure, you can file a complaint with MOHRE. Always monitor your visa status, especially if employment relations are strained.
Always Verify with Official Sources
Visa rules and regulations can change. For the most up-to-date and official information, always consult these authorized sources:
ICP UAE
icp.gov.ae
GDRFA Dubai
gdrfad.gov.ae
UAE Embassy
Contact your country
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Visa rules change frequently. Always verify requirements with official UAE government sources before making travel plans or applications.