Your Ultimate Guide to Dubai's Tourist Visa Options

Maryam Pervez -

Before you set off on your dream vacation to the UAE, it's important to choose the right tourist visa to match your travel plans. Whether you’re visiting for a short trip, planning an extended stay, or making multiple visits, the UAE offers a range of visa options tailored to your needs.

Choosing the Right Visa for Your UAE Visit

Dubai provides various visa options to suit every traveler:

  • Single-Entry Tourist Visa: Valid for 30 or 60 days, perfect for a quick getaway.
  • Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: Also valid for 30 or 60 days, ideal for frequent visitors.
  • Multiple-Entry Long-Term Visa: Valid for up to five years, offering an extended gateway to Dubai's experiences.
  • Transit Visa: Available for 48 or 96 hours, ideal for a brief stopover.
  • Visa on Arrival: Available for 30 or 90 days depending on your nationality.
  • Visa on Arrival for Indians: Indian nationals with a US visa, green card, or UK/EU residence visa are eligible.
  • eVisa for GCC Residents: Easily obtainable for residents of GCC countries, with GCC citizens enjoying visa-free entry.

Document Requirements for a Dubai Visa

When applying for a tourist visa, you'll need the following:

  • A recent passport photograph.
  • A passport valid for at least six months.
  • Valid health insurance for the duration of your stay.
  • A national identity card (for certain nationalities).
  • A travel ticket showing your onward journey (required for transit visas).
  • Residence permit for GCC residents.
  • Permanent residence card (green card) or UK/EU residence visa for eligible Indian nationals.

How to Apply for a UAE Tourist Visa

Obtaining a visa to visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other UAE cities is straightforward, with multiple application methods available:

  • Government Portals: Apply online via the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
  • National Airlines: Services provided by Etihad Airways, Emirates, Flydubai, or Air Arabia can facilitate your visa application.
  • Hotels in the UAE: Many hotels offer visa services as part of your booking.
  • Travel Agencies: Trusted travel agencies in the UAE can handle your visa application process.
  • Embassies and Consulates: Apply directly through UAE embassies or consulates.

Visa-Free Entry and Visa on Arrival

GCC citizens enjoy visa-free entry into the UAE by simply presenting their passport at the border. For other nationalities, Dubai offers:

  • 30-Day Visa on Arrival: For citizens of selected countries.
  • 90-Day Visa on Arrival: For citizens of certain other countries.

With all this information at your fingertips, applying for a UAE tourist visa is now a seamless process, ensuring you can focus on enjoying your luxurious getaway.

News Source: Gulf Business