Can I Apply for a Transit Visa at Dubai Airport in 2026?

Quick answer

Yes, eligible travellers can apply for a Dubai transit visa on arrival at the airport through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) counters or the e-gates. You must hold a valid onward ticket within 96 hours, a confirmed hotel booking, and sufficient funds. The fee is AED 100 for 48 hours or AED 300 for 96 hours, payable by card or cash.

Who qualifies for a Dubai transit visa?

Most nationalities need a visa to enter the UAE, even for a short stopover. Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) issue two types of transit visas on arrival:

• 48-hour transit visa: AED 100
• 96-hour transit visa: AED 300

Both are single-entry and non-extendable. You must depart within the validity period, and the visa is linked to your passport number, so carry the same passport you used to apply.

Step-by-step: how to apply at DXB or DWC in 2026

1. Check eligibility before you fly

Use the ICP website or the official UAE visa app to confirm your nationality is eligible for visa on arrival. Some countries still require a visa in advance.

2. Prepare your documents

• Valid passport with at least six months validity
• Confirmed onward ticket leaving the UAE within 96 hours
• Hotel booking or proof of accommodation
• Proof of funds (credit card or cash)
• Passport-size photo (available at airport kiosks if needed)

3. Head to the ICP counter after immigration

After landing, follow the yellow “Visa on Arrival” signs. Counters are open 24/7 at both terminals. An officer will scan your passport, collect the fee, and issue a visa sticker within 10–15 minutes.

4. Pay and collect your visa

Pay by card, cash, or approved e-wallets. Keep the receipt and visa printout with your passport until you exit the UAE.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming every nationality qualifies—always check first.
• Booking a one-way ticket only; you need proof of onward travel.
• Forgetting to carry the same passport used for the visa application.
• Arriving without hotel confirmation; many travellers are refused at the counter.

Transit visa vs. visa on arrival vs. visa in advance

2026 updates you should know

From January 2026, the ICP introduced digital visa issuance via the “UAE Pass” app. If you have the app installed, you can complete the application on your phone while waiting for your connecting flight and collect the sticker at the counter. Fees remain the same, but processing is faster for app users.

Tips for a smooth transit experience

• Download the ICP UAE app and complete the pre-arrival form.
• Allow at least 3 hours between connecting flights if you need a visa.
• Keep AED cash handy—some card machines can be temperamental.
• If your layover is under 24 hours, ask about the free 24-hour transit visa offered by Emirates or flydubai for certain routes.

Where to stay during your transit

If your layover is overnight, DXB offers two hotels inside the airport: Premier Inn Dubai Airport and YotelAir. Both accept transit visa holders. Rates start from AED 350 per night. For longer layovers, consider hotels near Deira or Bur Dubai connected by the metro.

Key takeaway

Applying for a Dubai transit visa at the airport is straightforward in 2026 if you carry the right documents and confirm eligibility beforehand. The process takes under 15 minutes, costs AED 100–300, and lets you explore the city during your layover without stress.