How to Get a Tourist Visa for Dubai in 2023: A Complete Guide

How to Get a Tourist Visa for Dubai in 2023: A Complete Guide

Welcome to your ultimate guide for planning a trip to Dubai in 2024! Dubai, a world-famous tourist destination, is renowned for its vibrant culture and luxurious lifestyle in the United Arab Emirates.

Every year, millions of travelers from around the globe choose Dubai as their destination for an unforgettable experience.

This comprehensive tourist visa guide is your go-to resource for all the essential information necessary to ensure a successful and memorable trip to Dubai!

Tourist Visa for Dubai - An Overview

If you're not a UAE citizen and want to explore Dubai, you'll need a Visit Visa. This short-term visa typically allows stays of 30 or 90 days, with options to convert it into an employment or residence visa. It's ideal for tourists looking to experience Dubai's attractions and culture.

Types of Dubai Tourist Visas

There are three main types of Dubai tourist visas:

1.   30-day single-entry visa

This is the most common type of Dubai tourist visa. It is valid for 30 days from the entry date and can be renewed for 30 days.

2.   60-day single-entry visa

The 60 days single entry visa is valid 60 days from the entry date and cannot be renewed.

3.   90-day multiple-entry visa

This visa is valid for 90 days after the date of issuance. It can be used to enter and leave Dubai multiple times during the validity period.

a.   Transit visa

This visa is valid for 96 hours and enables travelers to stay in Dubai for up to four days while waiting for a connecting flight.

b.   On Arrival Visa

This visa is available to residents of certain countries and allows them to obtain a visa upon arrival in Dubai.

c.   5-year multi-entry visa

The visa is valid for five years and allows travelers to enter and leave Dubai multiple times during the validity period.

5-year Multiple Visa in UAE

Suppose you plan to visit the UAE frequently in the coming years. In that case, a new visa option: the 5-year multiple entry tourist visa. You can apply for this visa on your own, stay for 90 days each time, and extend it for another 90 days if needed.

30–Day E-Visa For GCC Citizens

If you live in a GCC country and want to visit the UAE for 30 days, you can get an e-visa online.

Here's what you need:

●     A valid GCC residence visa with at least three months left before expiry.

●     A passport copy with at least six months of validity.

●     A correctly sized passport photo.

●     Proof of family relationship if you're traveling with family.

●     Some nationalities may require their home country's ID.

Dubai Visa Rules

●     A valid passport with at least six months left before leaving Dubai.

●     Most nationalities require a visa, which you can apply for online or through a travel agent.

●     Tourist visas are usually for 30, 60, or 90 days, and you can renew once for 30 more days.

●     You need enough money to cover your stay; the amount varies by nationality and stay length.

●     Good health and no criminal record are also necessary.

●     If you're under 21, you should travel with an immediate relative (parents or siblings aged 21 or above).

●     Regardless of age, female passengers should be accompanied by their father, adult brother, husband, adult son, or an immediate relative.

Dubai Visa Duration

Under the UAE's new visa scheme, all entry visas can now be used for single or multiple entries and are valid for 60 days from the date of issue.

Moreover, they can be renewed for an additional 60 days. Additionally, travel agencies can now request a three-month tourist visa.

Dubai Tourist Visa Extension

Extending your tourist visa in Dubai is possible and relatively straightforward. Here's how it works:

Eligibility

Visitors can extend their tourist visa for a fee of AED 1200 per 30 days.

Application Timing

To extend, apply to the Dubai Immigration Department at least ten days before your visa expires.

Maximum Stay

You can extend your tourist visa twice, granting a total stay of up to 90 days.

Required Documents

When extending, prepare these documents:

●     Completed visa extension form

●     Passport copy

●     Visa copy

●     Return ticket copy

●     Proof of sufficient funds

Application Options

Apply online, in person, or through a registered travel agent.

Apply for a Dubai Visa Online

●     Make a UAE Pass account if you don't have one, which is a digital ID for UAE residents.

●     Visit smartservices.icp.gov.ae and log in with your email, password, or UAE Pass account.

●     Once logged in, access your dashboard.

●     Choose the ICP department of the emirate you plan to visit, such as Abu Dhabi or Sharjah.

●     Locate the 'Issue Entry Permit For GCC Resident' service.

●     Click on 'Start Service.'

●     Complete the application and upload the necessary documents.

●     You'll receive a transaction/request number to track your visa application status.

Track Your Application

●     Visit smartservices.icp.gov.ae.

●     Enter the 15-digit request number assigned to you in the 'Quick Search' menu on the homepage.

●     Click 'Inquiry' to view your application status.

Dubai Tourist Visa Fee

Please note that currency exchange rates may fluctuate, so these USD values are approximate and may vary slightly at the time of conversion.

Tourist Visa Requirements For Dubai

When submitting each document to the Dubai Visit Visa Processing Center, you must be specific.

Ensure a smooth application process by following these simple steps:

●     Complete all submissions accurately to avoid application issues.

●     Fill out the application form with all the information filled in correctly.

●     Provide copies of the sponsor's passport and family members' passports.

●     If you're sponsoring your partner or spouse, submit valid relationship documents.

●     For children, include their birth certificates.

●     Include identity proof and recent photographs.

●     If employed, supply employer statements and salary details.

●     Attach a cover letter explaining your visit's purpose and duration.

●     Show proof of financial funds to support your stay.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Application

●     Plan Ahead: Begin your visa application before your travel date to avoid last-minute complications.

●     Choose the Right Visa: Select the appropriate visa type based on your travel plans and duration, ensuring it aligns with your needs.

●     Complete Forms Accurately: Carefully complete all Dubai visa application forms, providing accurate and complete information.

●     Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as passport copies, visa copies, return ticket copies, and financial proof, ready for submission.

●     Apply Early: Submit your visa application at least ten days before your visa expires to allow sufficient processing time and prevent potential issues.

Conclusion

The tourist visa for the UAE offers an extended stay in Dubai and the flexibility for multiple visits, allowing you to explore the city and its attractions at your own pace. It's an excellent opportunity to enjoy Dubai's vibrant culture and lifestyle.

What can happen if I overstay my tourist visa duration?

Overstaying results in a Dh50 per day fine.

What are the benefits of a 5-Year tourist visa in UAE?

The 5-year visa allows multiple entries. Up to 90 days per visit with this visa.

How can I extend a tourist visa in the UAE?

You can extend the entry permit for an additional 30 days, twice, with approval through UAE tourism companies or specifically via ICP or GDRFA in Dubai.

Is a tourist visa convertible to a work permit in UAE?

Working on tourist visas is prohibited; you need a valid work visa or residency permit.

How long does it take to get a UAE tourist visa?

Typically, it takes 4-5 working days to complete the documents.

Do children need a visa for Dubai?

Yes, all travelers, including children, need valid travel documents.

How long does a tourist visa remain valid?

Duration depends on the visa type.

Single-entry visa: 60-day validity + 30-day extension.

Do airlines offer UAE visit visas?

Yes, through airlines like Etihad, Emirates, Fly Dubai, and Air Arabia.

Where can I get a UAE tourist visa?

Apply through national airlines, authorized airlines, hotels, or travel agencies in the UAE.

Is a 3-month visa available in UAE?

Yes, it's available through travel agencies for those outside the UAE.

How much does a 3-month tourist visa cost in UAE?

Cost ranges from AED 1,500 to AED 2,000, including visa fees, service fees, and health insurance.