Can I Apply for a Dubai Visit Visa in 2026?

Quick answer

Yes, you can apply for a Dubai visit visa online through ICP or trusted airlines, hotels, and travel agents. Most nationalities get 30- or 60-day single or multiple-entry visas; the fee starts at AED 300 plus insurance. Processing usually takes 2–5 working days, but always verify the latest requirements on the official ICP portal before you book.

Who needs a Dubai visit visa in 2026?

Passport holders from 87 countries receive a visa on arrival (30 or 90 days). Everyone else must apply in advance. Even visa-on-arrival nationals may need an e-visa if they hold a second passport or have a long layover. The UAE also offers visa-free entry to citizens of 13 additional countries under new GCC agreements that began in January 2026.

Types of Dubai visit visas available

• 30-day single entry – AED 300, extendable once for another 30 days.
• 60-day single entry – AED 650, popular for longer holidays or remote work.
• Multiple-entry 60-day – AED 1,200, valid for six months from issue; each stay max 60 days.
• Multiple-entry 90-day – AED 2,000, valid for one year; each stay max 90 days.

All options require valid medical/travel insurance covering the UAE. You can add insurance during the online application for AED 48–150 depending on age and duration.

Step-by-step: how to apply online

1. Visit the ICP portal (icp.gov.ae) or the GDRFA-Dubai site; select “Entry Permit – Visit”.
2. Upload a passport scan valid for at least six months, one passport photo (white background), and flight/hotel booking.
3. Pay the fee by card; add optional insurance and express processing (AED 150 extra).
4. Receive the PDF visa by email within 2–5 working days. Print or save it on your phone.
5. At immigration, present the visa with your passport; the officer issues the entry stamp.

Where to apply if you prefer help

Airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai sell bundled visas with tickets. Major hotels (Marriott, IHG, Accor) and OTAs (Booking.com, Expedia) also act as authorised agents. Authorised agencies charge AED 50–100 service fee on top of the official cost. Always confirm the agency is listed on the ICP “Approved Agents” page.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Booking a refundable ticket before the visa is approved—many carriers now require the visa first.
• Using a hotel voucher instead of a confirmed booking; ICP may reject generic reservations.
• Forgetting travel insurance; border officers have started spot-checking policies.
• Applying through unofficial websites that add hidden “processing” charges up to AED 400.
• Overstaying even one day—fines are AED 50 per day for the first 10 days, AED 100 per day after.

Extending or changing your visa inside the UAE

You can extend a 30- or 60-day visit visa once for another 30 days via the ICP app or Amer centres. Cost is AED 600 plus insurance. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, consider switching to a 60-day multiple-entry visa or a remote-work visa (AED 2,500 for one year) instead of repeated extensions.

Entry requirements checklist for 2026

• Passport validity: six months beyond your planned departure.
• Return or onward ticket (open tickets sometimes accepted with proof of funds).
• Proof of accommodation for the entire stay—hotel, host invitation, or Ejari tenancy contract.
• Medical insurance policy minimum AED 100,000 coverage.
• Enough funds: immigration rarely asks, but AED 3,000–5,000 cash or card limit is safe.

Key takeaway

Applying for a Dubai visit visa is straightforward if you use official channels, buy proper insurance, and double-check passport validity. Start the process at least two weeks before travel, keep digital and paper copies of every document, and never overstay. With the right visa in hand, you can enjoy everything Dubai offers—beaches, souks, desert safaris, and world-class shopping—without a single border hassle.