Dubai is one of the world’s most visited cities, attracting millions of tourists, professionals, and families every year. If you’re planning to visit Dubai in 2025, understanding the latest UAE visit visa rules and process is essential to avoid delays or visa rejections.
This guide explains how to get a Dubai visit visa in 2025, including visa types, application methods, costs, required documents, latest updates, and tips to ensure a smooth process.
1. Overview of Visit Visas for Dubai
A visit visa is issued to foreigners who wish to enter Dubai for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or short stays. These visas are sponsored by a UAE resident, relative, company, or even a UAE-based travel agency or hotel.
In 2025, the UAE has introduced flexible visa policies, allowing longer stays, multiple entry options, and easier online applications.
2. Who Needs a Visa to Enter Dubai?
There are 3 categories of travelers:
Visa-Free Entry
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Citizens of GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar)
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No visa required for entry
Visa on Arrival
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Citizens of countries like USA, UK, EU nations, Australia, Japan, Canada, Singapore, etc.
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30 to 90 days visa issued at airport
Pre-Approved Visit Visa Required
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South Asian countries (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), African countries, and others
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Must apply before arrival
Pro Tip: Use UAE ICP’s visa eligibility tool to check if you need a visa.
3. Types of Dubai Visit Visas (2025)
Visa Type | Duration | Entry Type | Sponsor Required |
---|---|---|---|
Short-Term Tourist Visa | 30 days | Single | Yes |
Long-Term Tourist Visa | 60 or 90 days | Single | Yes |
Multiple Entry Visa | 30/60/90 days | Multiple | Yes |
5-Year Tourist Visa | Up to 90 days per visit | Multiple | No |
Transit Visa | 48 or 96 hours | Single | Airline sponsor |

4. Visa Duration Options
30-Day Visit Visa
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Ideal for short vacations or meetings
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Extendable inside UAE
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Can be single or multiple entry
60- or 90-Day Visit Visa
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Best for long trips or visiting family/friends
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Also used by freelancers or job seekers
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Renewable (once or twice depending on visa type)
5-Year Multiple Entry Visa
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For frequent travelers or business visitors
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Self-sponsored (no UAE sponsor needed)
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Must show strong bank statements & health insurance
5. Required Documents for Dubai Visit Visa
The exact documents vary depending on your nationality and visa type, but generally include:
Basic Documents:
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Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
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Recent passport-sized photo (white background)
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Visa application form (online or paper)
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Copy of return flight ticket
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Hotel booking or address of stay
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Travel health insurance (mandatory for 5-year visa)
Additional (if sponsored):
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Emirates ID & passport copy of UAE sponsor
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Relationship proof (for family visits)
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Bank statements (for long-term visa or multiple entry)
6. How to Apply – Step-by-Step
There are 3 ways to apply for a Dubai visit visa:
1. Through UAE Airlines
Airlines like Emirates, FlyDubai, Etihad, and Air Arabia offer visa services to ticket holders.
Steps:
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Book a round-trip ticket
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Fill visa application on airline website
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Submit documents
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Pay visa fees
2. Through UAE Travel Agencies / Hotels
UAE-based tour operators or hotels can sponsor your visa.
Note: Make sure the agency is registered with UAE immigration.
3. Through a UAE Resident Sponsor
If you have a friend or family member living in Dubai:
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They can apply via GDRFA (Dubai residents) or ICP portal (other Emirates)
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You’ll receive e-visa by email
Apply here:
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Dubai Residents: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae
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Other Emirates: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae
7. Visit Visa Fees in 2025
Visa Type | Duration | Estimated Fee (AED) |
---|---|---|
30-day Tourist Visa | 30 days | AED 300–400 |
60-day Tourist Visa | 60 days | AED 500–650 |
90-day Tourist Visa | 90 days | AED 700–850 |
Multiple Entry Visa | 30–90 days | AED 800–1200 |
5-Year Multiple Entry Visa | 5 years | AED 1500–2000 |
Transit Visa (48 hrs) | 2 days | Free |
Transit Visa (96 hrs) | 4 days | AED 50–100 |
💡 Prices may vary slightly based on agency, airline, or sponsor.
8. Visa Extension & Overstay Fines
Extensions (2025 update):
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30-day visa can be extended up to 2 times
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Each extension: AED 600–800
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You can extend without exiting UAE via approved agencies
Overstay Fines:
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AED 50 per day after grace period (10 days)
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Additional AED 300–500 processing penalty
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May affect future visa approvals
Always check expiry date and set reminders!
9. Can You Work on a Visit Visa?
No, working in Dubai on a visit or tourist visa is strictly illegal.
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You must convert your visa to a work permit after securing a job
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Employers are responsible for issuing employment visa through MOHRE
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Caught working illegally = heavy fines, deportation, or ban
However, job searching is allowed while on a valid visit visa.
10. Tips to Avoid Visa Rejection
✅ Apply through a registered agent or trusted airline
✅ Double-check passport validity (6+ months)
✅ Avoid errors in application form
✅ Book return flight and hotel in advance
✅ Provide accurate documents and ID copies
✅ Don’t apply if you have overstay history in UAE or GCC
11. Final Thoughts
Dubai’s visit visa process in 2025 is simpler, faster, and more flexible than ever before. Whether you’re visiting for a vacation, meeting family, exploring business opportunities, or applying for long-term residence — there’s a visa type that fits your needs.
Make sure to prepare your documents, check eligibility, apply through proper channels, and enjoy your stay in one of the most vibrant cities in the world.