Can I apply for a transit visa if my layover is only 4 hours?

Yes, as long as your onward ticket departs within 48 or 96 hours. The visa duration covers the entire stay, not just the layover.

Do I need hotel booking to get a transit visa at AUH?

Yes, you must show proof of accommodation for the entire visa period, even if it is just one night.

Is the transit visa fee the same for children?

Children under 18 pay the same fee as adults; there is no child discount for transit visas at Abu Dhabi Airport.

Can I extend a 48-hour transit visa once I am in Abu Dhabi?

No, transit visas cannot be extended. You must leave the UAE before the visa expires or apply for a new visa from outside.

Can I Apply for Transit Visa in Abu Dhabi Airport 2026

Q: Which nationalities cannot get a transit visa on arrival?

Citizens of countries that require a prior visa approval must apply through an airline or ICP-approved sponsor before travel.

Quick answer

Yes, you can apply for a transit visa on arrival at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) in 2026. The process is handled by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) and takes 30–60 minutes at the dedicated visa counter in Terminal A. The fee is AED 100 for a 48-hour visa and AED 300 for a 96-hour visa, payable by card or cash.

Who is eligible for an Abu Dhabi transit visa?

Travellers from most countries who hold a confirmed onward ticket leaving the UAE within 48 or 96 hours are eligible. You must arrive on a commercial flight and not already hold a valid UAE visa. Nationals of countries requiring prior visa approval must apply through an airline or ICP-approved sponsor before travel.

Where exactly do you apply inside the airport?

After immigration but before baggage claim, look for the blue “Visa on Arrival” counters located in Terminal A arrivals corridor. Two desks operate 24/7. If your flight lands at Terminal B or C, free inter-terminal shuttle buses run every 10 minutes.

Step-by-step: how to get a transit visa at AUH

Disembark and follow the yellow “Visa on Arrival” signs.
Present your passport, onward ticket, and completed visa form (available at the counter).
Pay the fee: AED 100 for 48 hours or AED 300 for 96 hours.
Have your photo and fingerprints taken.
Collect the visa sticker and proceed to immigration.

Documents you must carry

Valid passport with at least six months validity.
Confirmed onward or return ticket within the visa validity.
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host address).
Completed visa application form (provided at counter).

Transit visa fees in 2026

48-hour visa: AED 100. 96-hour visa: AED 300. These fees are set by ICP and are subject to change; always verify with the airline or ICP website before travel. No additional service charge applies at the airport counter.

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming visa-on-arrival is automatic for all nationalities.
Booking a ticket with a long layover but no confirmed onward flight within 96 hours.
Arriving without enough cash or a working card to pay the fee.
Forgetting that some nationalities must obtain an approved visa from an airline or sponsor in advance.

Tips for a smooth transit visa experience

Download the ICP app and check your eligibility 48 hours before departure.
Keep a digital and printed copy of your onward ticket.
If you need the 96-hour visa, request it at the counter; staff can upgrade you on the spot.
Allow at least 90 minutes between flights if you must collect and re-check baggage.

Transit visa vs tourist visa: quick comparison

Visa type	Duration	Best for	Where to apply
Transit (48 h)	48 hours	Short layovers	AUH arrivals counter
Transit (96 h)	96 hours	Longer stopovers	AUH arrivals counter
30-day tourist	30 days	Extended visit	Online or airline

Key takeaway

Applying for a transit visa at Abu Dhabi Airport is straightforward for eligible travellers in 2026. Carry the right documents, confirm your onward flight, and budget AED 100–300 for the fee. If your nationality requires prior approval, arrange the visa through your airline or ICP-approved sponsor before you fly.