Use your Dubai layover to actually see Dubai — many nationalities qualify for a free 96-hour transit visa, turning a stopover into a genuine mini-holiday.
| Type | Duration | Cost | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free 96-Hour Transit | Up to 96 hours | Free | Select nationalities + Emirates/FlyDubai flight |
| Paid Transit Visa (48hr) | Up to 48 hours | AED 50 | All nationalities via airline application |
| Paid Transit Visa (96hr) | Up to 96 hours | AED 100 | All nationalities via airline application |
| UAE Visa-Free Entry | 30-90 days | Free | USA, UK, EU, Australia, etc. (50+ countries) |
Check your nationality's eligibility at icp.gov.ae or through Emirates.com. Eligibility changes — always verify before booking.
Free 96-hour transit tip: This must be booked when purchasing your Emirates or FlyDubai ticket. You cannot apply at the airport. The visa is automatically issued when you check in. Confirm your eligibility on the Emirates website before booking.
For airside transit (staying in the airport without leaving): many nationalities don't need a visa for up to 24 hours. For landside transit (leaving the airport to visit Dubai): most nationalities need a transit visa or UAE visa-free entry eligibility. USA, UK, EU, Australian nationals don't need a visa at all (30-90 days automatic on arrival).
Free 96-hour transit: up to 96 hours (4 days). Paid 48-hour transit: up to 48 hours. Paid 96-hour transit: up to 96 hours. UAE visa-free nationals (USA, UK, EU, etc.): up to 30-90 days automatically.
The 96-hour transit is free for many nationalities (including Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Bangladeshi, and others) when flying on Emirates or FlyDubai and meeting eligibility criteria. Apply when booking your Emirates/FlyDubai ticket. A paid option (AED 50/100) is available for other nationalities or airlines.
Apply through emirates.com/transit or flydubai.com when booking your flight. The airline handles the application for eligible nationalities. For paid transit visas, you can also apply through the ICA portal or a licensed typing centre in advance.
96-hour transit gives 3-4 days: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Old Dubai (Al Fahidi + souks + Abra), desert safari, and JBR Beach. 48-hour transit covers Downtown and Old Dubai highlights. Even 24 hours allows an evening (Dubai Fountain + Mall) and a morning (Al Fahidi + museum). Dubai's Metro makes 24-hour layovers very efficient.
Transit visa advice, layover itineraries, and hotel recommendations near the airport — our experts plan the perfect stopover.
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