UAE Visit Visa – Everything Travelers Need to Know in a Simple Way

The United Arab Emirates welcomes millions of visitors annually. Some come for holidays, others visit family, and many travel for business meetings or short professional trips. Whether someone is planning a weekend in Dubai, a family stay in Sharjah, or a business conference in Abu Dhabi, having the right UAE visit visa makes the journey smooth and stress-free.

Who Can Apply for a UAE Visa

Most nationalities can apply for a UAE visa as long as they follow the basic requirements. The UAE welcomes travellers for tourism, family visits, business trips, long-term stays, and transit. A few nationalities receive a visa-on-arrival, but many need to apply in advance.

You can apply for a UAE visit visa Dubai, or any other emirate if:

• Confirm that your passport has a minimum of six months’ validity remaining.
• You have a clear reason for visiting.
• You have a confirmed plan for your stay (hotel, family address, or business meetings).
• You can show financial ability to cover your trip (if requested).
• You apply through an approved channel like a travel agency, UAE airline, or resident sponsor.

Different Types of UAE Visas

Tourist / Visit Visa

The most common option for travellers. Suitable for holidays, family trips, or short stays. Available in 30-day or 60-day durations, single or multiple entries.

Dubai Tourist Visa

Perfect for travellers planning to explore Dubai’s attractions.

UAE Business Visa

This visa is for travellers attending meetings, conferences, trade events, or training sessions in the UAE. It does not allow full-time employment but is ideal for short-term business activities.

Transit Visa

Best for travellers passing through the UAE for a short stopover. Options include 48-hour and 96-hour visas, mostly issued by airlines.

Long-Term / Residence Visa

Issued when someone moves to the UAE for work, business, or study. This category requires additional steps after entry, such as medical tests and Emirates ID processing.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a UAE Visit Visa

1. Choose the visa type

Decide whether you need a tourist visa, a Dubai visit visa, a UAE business visa, or a family visit visa.

2. Prepare your documents

Ensure your passport, photos, and required papers are ready. The details must be clear and valid.

3. Submit the application

You can apply through multiple channels:

• UAE travel agencies
• Official airline services (Emirates, FlyDubai, Etihad, Air Arabia)
• A UAE resident family member or relative
• A UAE company for business-related travel

4. Pay the visa fee

Fees differ based on stay duration and number of entries.

5. Track the application

Most applications can be checked online using the application number or passport number.

6. Receive your visa by email

Almost all UAE visit visas are issued electronically. For residence or long-term visas, additional steps must be completed after arrival.

Requirements for UAE Visit Visa

Many travellers search for the requirements for UAE visit visa before applying. The process is straightforward, and Dubai follows the same rules, so the requirements for Dubai visit visa are almost identical.

The main goal is to show that the visitor has a valid identity, a clear purpose of travel, and a proper plan.

UAE Visit Visa Requirements – Documents Checklist

• Passport with at least 6 months validity
• Passport-size photograph (clear, white background)
• Completed application form
• Confirmed flight booking or itinerary
• Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
• Proof of financial ability (bank statements, if required)
• Invitation letter from family (for sponsored visits)
• Sponsor’s passport and UAE residence visa copy (for family invite)

For a UAE business visa, extra documents may be required:

• Invitation from a UAE company or conference organiser
• Company trade license (if applicable)
• Proof of business meeting or event registration

Processing Time

Processing time varies, but the average timelines are:

Frequently Asked Questions