UAE visa categories at a glance
Pick by trip length. 96-hour transit for layovers, 30/60-day single for one trip, 60-day multiple for back-to-back trips, 5-year multi for frequent visitors.
- 96-hour transit — for stopovers with onward flight
- 30-day single entry — most common tourist visa
- 60-day single entry — extended leisure / family visits
- 60-day multiple entry — business or repeat travel
- 5-year multiple entry — up to 90 days per visit
- Visa on arrival — select nationalities only
Documents required
UAE applications are 100% online. No biometrics for tourist visas. You upload PDFs / JPEGs and decisions arrive by email.
Processing time and tracking
Standard processing is 3–4 working days. Express is 24–48 hours. You'll get an e-visa PDF by email — print or store offline before flying.
Document checklist
Tick off as you collect each item. Want a printable version? Download the PDF.
Documents to upload
- Passport bio-page scan (colour, 6+ months validity)
- Recent passport photo (white background, head-and-shoulders)
- Confirmed return flight
- Hotel booking or sponsor letter
Optional but helpful
- Bank statement (3 months) — for first-time visitors
- Cover letter (business travellers)
- Sponsor copy of Emirates ID (family visit visa)
Frequently asked questions
How long does a UAE tourist visa take?+
Typically 3–4 working days on the standard track and as little as 24–48 hours on the express track, depending on the issuing authority. Processing time is set by GDRFA and is not guaranteed.
Do I need a return ticket for a UAE visa?+
Yes, a confirmed return or onward flight is mandatory at both visa application and immigration on arrival.
What is the 5-year UAE multiple-entry visa?+
A multiple-entry tourist visa valid for 5 years, allowing 90-day stays per visit (extendable by another 90 days), with total stay capped at 180 days per year.
Can I extend my UAE tourist visa?+
Yes, you can extend twice for 30 days each through ICA or a typing centre. Apply before the visa expires to avoid overstay fines (AED 50/day).