The United Arab Emirates issues tourist entry to visitors in two ways: a free visa on arrival for passport holders from over 120 countries, or a pre-arranged e-Visa for everyone else. If you hold a UK, United States or EU passport, you receive a free stamp at the airport and pay nothing on entry. If you hold an Indian passport, you can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival for roughly AED 100 (USD 27) when you meet the conditions, or apply for the e-Visa in advance. Travellers from Pakistan, Nigeria, the Philippines and many other countries must pre-apply for a sponsored or tourist visa before flying. The standard 30-day UAE tourist visa costs about AED 100 (USD 27), a 90-day option is available, and the e-Visa is issued online through icp.gov.ae in roughly 3 to 5 working days.
| Visa-free / on-arrival nationalities | 120+ countries (UK, USA, EU, Australia, Canada and more) |
|---|---|
| 30-day tourist visa cost | Approx AED 100 (USD 27) |
| Longer option | 90-day tourist visa available |
| e-Visa portal | icp.gov.ae (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) |
| Processing time | Approx 3–5 working days |
| Extension | Approx AED 620 (USD 169) via ICP portal |
| Overstay fine | Approx AED 100 (USD 27) per day |
| Transit visas | 48-hour and 96-hour options exist |
Do you need a visa for Dubai or the UAE?
Dubai sits within the United Arab Emirates, so the UAE federal visa rules cover every emirate, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. Your nationality decides whether you need a visa at all. Three categories apply to tourists.
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travellers. More than 120 nationalities receive a free entry stamp or a paid on-arrival visa at the airport. British citizens receive 90 days free, United States citizens receive 90 days free, and many EU, Australian and Canadian passport holders enjoy similar free entry.
- Paid visa-on-arrival travellers. Some passports, including Indian passports that meet specific conditions, qualify for a 30-day visa on arrival priced at roughly AED 100 (USD 27).
- Pre-apply travellers. Holders of passports such as Pakistan, Nigeria and the Philippines must secure a sponsored or tourist visa before departure through a hotel, airline, travel agent or the ICP portal.
Check your exact status with our free Dubai visa checker by nationality before you book flights. Nationality-specific guides explain the documents and conditions in detail: read how to get a UAE visa as an Indian passport holder, how to apply for a UAE visa from Pakistan, what UK travellers should know about UAE entry, and how US citizens enter the UAE visa-free.
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The United Arab Emirates offers several visitor visa categories. Tourists usually choose one of the following.
- 30-day tourist visa. A single-entry visa valid for 30 days from entry, suited to short holidays. It costs about AED 100 (USD 27).
- 90-day tourist visa. A longer single-entry visa for extended stays, family visits or slow travel across multiple emirates.
- Multiple-entry tourist visa. A visa that allows several entries within its validity, useful for travellers combining the UAE with nearby countries such as Oman or Qatar.
- 48-hour transit visa. A short transit permit for layovers, often free or low cost when issued through the airline.
- 96-hour transit visa. A longer transit permit that lets you leave the airport and explore during a stopover. Read our full guide to the Dubai transit visa for stopover travellers.
Business, study, work, family and Golden Visa categories also exist, but tourists rarely need them for a holiday. This guide focuses on visitor entry.
UAE visa costs by type (AED and USD)
The table below lists indicative tourist visa prices. Government fees can change, and travel agents or hotels may add a service charge, so treat these figures as a planning guide.
| Visa type | Validity | Approx cost (AED) | Approx cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-day tourist (single entry) | 30 days | AED 100 | USD 27 |
| 90-day tourist (single entry) | 90 days | AED 350 [VERIFY] | USD 95 [VERIFY] |
| 30-day tourist (multiple entry) | 30 days | AED 250 [VERIFY] | USD 68 [VERIFY] |
| 90-day tourist (multiple entry) | 90 days | AED 650 [VERIFY] | USD 177 [VERIFY] |
| 48-hour transit | 48 hours | Free [VERIFY] | Free [VERIFY] |
| 96-hour transit | 96 hours | AED 175 [VERIFY] | USD 48 [VERIFY] |
| Visa extension | +30 days | AED 620 | USD 169 |
USD figures use an approximate AED-to-USD rate of about 3.67 to 1, the UAE dirham's long-standing peg. The 30-day tourist visa, the extension and the overstay fine are grounded; figures marked [VERIFY] should be confirmed on icp.gov.ae before you pay.
How to apply for the UAE e-Visa (step by step)
The UAE e-Visa is issued online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security at icp.gov.ae. Travellers who do not qualify for visa on arrival, or who want their visa confirmed before flying, follow these steps.
- Confirm you need an e-Visa. Run your nationality through the Dubai visa checker. If your passport gets visa on arrival, you may not need to apply at all.
- Gather your documents. Prepare a passport valid for at least six months, a recent passport-size colour photo on a white background, your confirmed return flight booking and your hotel reservation or host details.
- Open the official portal. Go to icp.gov.ae and choose the visa or "entry permit" service. Apply only through the official ICP site, your airline, or an approved travel agent to avoid scams.
- Create an account and start the application. Register with your email and mobile number, then select the tourist visa type and validity (30-day or 90-day) that matches your trip.
- Upload documents and enter your details. Fill in your personal and passport information exactly as printed, then upload your photo and supporting files in the requested format.
- Pay the visa fee. Pay online by card. The 30-day tourist visa costs about AED 100 (USD 27); longer or multiple-entry visas cost more.
- Wait for approval. Processing usually takes about 3 to 5 working days. You receive the approved e-Visa as a PDF by email.
- Travel with your e-Visa. Print a copy and keep a digital copy on your phone. Present it with your passport at UAE immigration on arrival.
Many travellers let their airline or hotel sponsor the visa instead of applying directly. Emirates, Etihad and flydubai offer visa services to ticketed passengers, and most hotels arrange visas for confirmed guests.
UAE visa on arrival: who qualifies
Visa on arrival removes the need to apply in advance. More than 120 nationalities qualify, in two groups.
- Free visa-on-arrival. United Kingdom passport holders receive 90 days free, United States passport holders receive 90 days free, and EU, Australian, Canadian, Japanese and many other passport holders receive a free stamp of 30 or 90 days.
- Paid visa-on-arrival. Indian passport holders can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival for roughly AED 100 (USD 27) when they hold a valid US, UK or EU visa or residence permit, subject to current conditions.
Visa on arrival requires a passport valid for at least six months and, in some cases, proof of onward travel or accommodation. If your nationality is not on the on-arrival list, apply for the e-Visa before you fly.
Extending your UAE tourist visa
The United Arab Emirates allows most tourists to extend their stay without leaving the country. An extension adds roughly 30 days and costs about AED 620 (USD 169) through the ICP portal. Apply before your current visa expires to avoid overstay fines. Our dedicated walkthrough explains the process in detail: see how to extend a UAE tourist visa without exiting the country.
Overstaying your UAE visa
Overstaying carries a daily fine. The UAE charges roughly AED 100 (USD 27) per day after your visa expires. Fines accumulate quickly, and unpaid overstay penalties can block future entry, so extend your visa or exit the country before the expiry date. Keep your visa PDF handy so you always know your exact last legal day in the country.
Documents you need for a UAE tourist visa
Whether you apply online or arrive for visa on arrival, prepare the following.
- A passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
- A recent passport-size colour photo on a white background (for e-Visa applications).
- A confirmed return or onward flight booking.
- A hotel reservation or the address and details of your UAE host.
- Proof of sufficient funds, which immigration may request on arrival.
- For some nationalities, a copy of a valid US, UK or EU visa or residence permit.
UAE visa rules by nationality
Visa rules in the United Arab Emirates differ sharply by passport, so your nationality is the single most important factor in your planning. The sections below summarise the main traveller groups and link to dedicated nationality guides.
Indian passport holders
Indian travellers can enter the UAE in two ways. Those who hold a valid US, UK or EU visa or residence permit can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival for roughly AED 100 (USD 27), subject to current conditions. Everyone else applies for the e-Visa in advance through icp.gov.ae or through their airline or hotel. The 30-day and 90-day tourist visas are both available. Our complete walkthrough covers documents, eligibility and timing for travellers from India: read how to get a UAE visa as an Indian passport holder.
Pakistani passport holders
Pakistani travellers do not receive visa on arrival and must pre-apply for a tourist or sponsored visa before flying. A UAE-based sponsor, a hotel, an airline or an approved travel agent typically arranges the visa, and supporting documents such as bank statements are often requested. Our step-by-step guide explains the requirements: see how to apply for a UAE visa from Pakistan.
UK passport holders
British citizens receive a free 90-day visa on arrival with no advance application. You simply present a passport valid for at least six months at immigration and receive your stamp. For the finer points on entry, stays and renewals, read what UK travellers should know about UAE entry.
US passport holders
United States citizens also receive a free 90-day visa on arrival. No e-Visa or fee is required for tourism. Our guide covers the conditions and how to extend if you wish to stay longer: see how US citizens enter the UAE visa-free.
Other nationalities that must pre-apply
Travellers from countries such as Nigeria and the Philippines must arrange a sponsored or tourist visa before departure, much like Pakistani passport holders. The fastest route is usually through the airline that flies you to the UAE or the hotel where you will stay. Confirm your exact status with the Dubai visa checker by nationality before booking.
Transit visas for Dubai stopovers
Dubai International Airport is one of the world's busiest connecting hubs, so transit visas matter to many travellers. The UAE offers two transit categories. The 48-hour transit visa suits short layovers and is often issued free or at low cost through your airline. The 96-hour transit visa, valid for up to four days, lets you leave the airport, sleep in the city and see Dubai during a longer stopover. Both are arranged through your carrier, and you need a confirmed onward ticket. For eligibility, fees and the application route, read our full Dubai transit visa guide for stopover travellers.
Tips for a smooth UAE entry
- Apply for the e-Visa at least one week before travel to absorb the 3 to 5 day processing window.
- Match every detail on the application to your passport exactly; a single spelling mismatch can delay approval.
- Use only icp.gov.ae, your airline, or an approved agent — never an unofficial third-party site charging inflated fees.
- Carry both a printed and a digital copy of your visa at immigration.
- Note your visa expiry date the moment you enter and set a phone reminder a few days before.
- Confirm current government fees before paying, as visa prices are reviewed periodically.
Common UAE visa mistakes to avoid
Most visa problems come from a handful of avoidable errors. Watch for the following before and during your trip.
- Leaving the application too late. The e-Visa takes about 3 to 5 working days, so a last-minute application risks missing your flight. Apply at least a week ahead.
- A passport that expires too soon. The UAE requires at least six months of passport validity from your arrival date. A passport close to expiry can be refused at check-in.
- Mismatched details. Names, passport numbers and dates of birth must match your passport exactly. A typo can delay or void the visa.
- Using unofficial websites. Apply only through icp.gov.ae, your airline or an approved agent. Copycat sites charge inflated fees and may not deliver a valid visa.
- Ignoring the expiry date. Overstaying costs roughly AED 100 (USD 27) per day. Track your last legal day from the entry stamp, not your booking dates.
- Assuming Dubai has separate rules. Dubai uses the UAE federal visa system, so the same nationality rules apply across every emirate.
When to use a sponsor, airline or travel agent
Not every traveller applies directly on the ICP portal. Three sponsored routes simplify the process. Airlines such as Emirates, Etihad and flydubai offer visa services to ticketed passengers and handle much of the paperwork. Hotels routinely arrange visas for confirmed guests, which suits package holidays. Licensed travel agents process visas for travellers who prefer end-to-end support, including nationalities that must pre-apply. Each route adds a service fee on top of the government charge, but it can save time and reduce the risk of rejected documents. If your passport requires a sponsor, such as Pakistan, Nigeria or the Philippines, one of these routes is usually the most reliable path to approval.
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Plan with us on WhatsAppFrequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
Whether you need a visa for Dubai depends on your nationality. Over 120 nationalities, including the UK, United States and EU, receive a free visa on arrival, so they need no advance visa. Other nationalities, such as Pakistan, Nigeria and the Philippines, must pre-apply for a tourist or sponsored visa. Indian passport holders can get a 30-day visa on arrival for about AED 100 (USD 27) under certain conditions. Dubai follows the UAE's federal rules, so the same answer applies to every emirate.
How much is a Dubai tourist visa?
A standard 30-day Dubai tourist visa costs roughly AED 100 (USD 27). A 90-day tourist visa is available at a higher fee, and multiple-entry visas cost more again. Travel agents or hotels may add a service charge. Visa-free nationalities such as the UK and United States pay nothing for their on-arrival stamp.
Can I get a UAE visa on arrival?
Yes, if your passport is on the visa-on-arrival list of more than 120 nationalities. UK and US citizens receive 90 days free on arrival, while Indian passport holders can get a 30-day visa on arrival for about AED 100 (USD 27) when they meet the conditions. If your nationality is not on the list, apply for an e-Visa before you travel. Use our visa checker to confirm.
How long does the UAE e-Visa take?
The UAE e-Visa usually takes about 3 to 5 working days to process through icp.gov.ae. You receive the approved visa as a PDF by email. Apply at least a week before your trip to leave a safety margin for any delays or document requests.
Can I extend my UAE tourist visa?
Yes. Most tourists can extend their stay by about 30 days for roughly AED 620 (USD 169) through the ICP portal, without leaving the country. Apply before your current visa expires to avoid overstay fines. See our UAE visa extension guide for the full process.
What happens if I overstay my UAE visa?
Overstaying a UAE visa triggers a fine of roughly AED 100 (USD 27) per day after expiry. The fines add up fast and unpaid penalties can block future entry to the country. Extend your visa or exit the UAE before your visa expires to avoid charges.
Is there a transit visa for stopovers in Dubai?
Yes. The UAE offers a 48-hour transit visa and a 96-hour transit visa for travellers with a layover. The 96-hour visa lets you leave the airport and explore the city during a longer stopover. Read our Dubai transit visa guide for eligibility and how to apply.