Can I Apply for Visa on Arrival in Dubai 2026

Quick answer

Yes, travellers from 87 countries can receive a visa on arrival in Dubai for 30 days free or 90 days for a fee. The stamp is issued automatically at passport control if your passport meets the requirements. If your nationality is not on the list, you must apply for a visa in advance through ICP or a licensed airline.

Who is eligible for Dubai visa on arrival in 2026?

Only nationals of the 87 countries listed on the ICP website receive the visa on arrival. The most common eligible passports include all EU states, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, and the GCC states. Always double-check the current list on the ICP portal before you fly, because countries are occasionally added or removed.

30-day free vs 90-day paid visa on arrival

Most eligible travellers receive a 30-day visa free of charge. Citizens of the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Norway and a few others can extend once for another 30 days at an ICP centre for AED 600. Nationals of China, India, Russia and some other countries receive a 90-day visa on arrival for AED 300 if they hold a valid residence visa from the USA, UK or EU.

Step-by-step: how to get your visa on arrival at DXB

1. Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
2. Have a return or onward ticket and proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host address).
3. Land at Dubai International (DXB) or Al Maktoum (DWC). No pre-registration is needed.
4. Proceed to the e-gates if your passport chip is recognised, or join the visa-on-arrival counters.
5. Present your passport; the immigration officer will issue the visa stamp within 30–90 seconds.
6. Collect your luggage and exit. The visa is valid from the day it is stamped.

Documents you should carry even though they are rarely checked

• Printed or digital return ticket.
• Hotel confirmation or address of your host in the UAE.
• Proof of sufficient funds (credit card or cash) – occasionally requested.
• Travel insurance certificate – helpful if you need medical care.

Common mistakes that can get you refused entry

Many travellers assume their nationality automatically qualifies them. If your passport was recently renewed and the chip is not yet recognised by the e-gates, you may be directed to a manned counter. Another frequent issue is arriving with a one-way ticket only; immigration may ask for proof of onward travel. Finally, travellers who already used their 30-day visa and try to re-enter without an extension are often refused.

Visa on arrival vs visa in advance – which should you choose?

If your nationality is eligible, the visa on arrival is faster and cheaper. If you are not eligible or you plan multiple entries, apply for a 60-day or 90-day tourist visa online through ICP or airlines such as Emirates, Etihad or flydubai before departure. Pre-approved visas also let you use the smart e-gates on arrival, saving time during busy periods.

Extending your Dubai visa on arrival in 2026

Eligible nationalities can extend once for 30 days at any Amer centre or ICP office. The fee is AED 600 plus a service charge of roughly AED 100. You must apply before your current visa expires. Overstaying even one day costs AED 50 per day, rising to AED 100 after 60 days, so set a calendar reminder.

Key takeaway

If your passport is on the ICP list and you have a return ticket plus accommodation proof, you can walk through Dubai immigration in under two minutes and start your holiday immediately. Always confirm the latest country list and carry basic travel documents to avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport.