How much does a UAE tourist visa cost in 2026?

Expect AED 300 for a 30-day single entry and AED 650 for a 60-day multiple entry. Verify current fee with ICP.

Can I apply for a UAE visit visa without a sponsor?

Yes. Tourists apply directly via ICP or airlines; no local sponsor is required for standard visit visas.

How long does visa processing take?

Most online applications are approved within minutes to 48 hours. Apply at least three days before departure.

Can I extend my UAE visit visa from inside the country?

Yes. Log into ICP before expiry and pay the extension fee; one extension is allowed for each visa type.

What happens if I overstay my visit visa?

You’ll be fined AED 50 per day. Pay the fine at ICP or airport immigration before your next trip to avoid bans.

Can I Apply for a UAE Visit Visa in 2026?

An open passport with multiple colorful ink stamps on the pages

Quick answer

Yes. You can apply for a UAE visit visa online through ICP, airlines, or authorised travel agents. Most nationalities get 30- or 60-day single or multiple-entry visas, paid in AED and valid for 60 days from issuance.

Who needs a UAE visit visa in 2026?

Passport holders from about 80 countries can enter visa-free for 30 or 90 days. Everyone else must obtain a visit visa before travel. Check the ICP website or your airline; rules change yearly.

Types of visit visas available

30-day single entry

Standard tourist visa. Costs around AED 300 if bought via ICP or airlines. Extendable once for another 30 days at AED 600.

60-day multiple entry

Valid for two months, multiple trips. Priced near AED 650. Good for frequent short visits or regional travel.

90-day single entry

Issued mainly for GCC residents’ family or long-stay tourists. Fee starts at AED 800; confirm current fee with ICP.

Step-by-step: how to apply online

Go to the ICP portal (icp.gov.ae) or use the ICP smart app.
Create an account with your passport scan and photo.
Choose “Entry Permit – Tourist” and select duration.
Pay with international card; you’ll receive the visa PDF instantly.
Print or save to your phone for airport immigration.

Where else can you apply?

Airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia sell visas at booking.
Travel agents and hotel partners (e.g., Dubai Hotels) bundle visa + hotel packages.
VFS Global centres in select countries for applicants preferring in-person lodgement.

Documents you need

Passport valid six months beyond your planned stay.
Digital passport-style photo (white background).
Return/onward flight booking (recommended).
Proof of hotel booking or host’s Emirates ID copy if staying with friends.
Bank statement or sponsor letter if required by your nationality.

Common mistakes to avoid

Applying too late—processing can take up to 48 hours during peak travel.
Using an expired passport or one with less than six months validity.
Booking a one-way ticket only; immigration may ask for proof of onward travel.
Forgetting the visa fee is non-refundable if plans change.
Overstaying—fine starts at AED 50 per day after expiry.

Visa on arrival vs pre-arranged visa

Visa on arrival is free for 60+ nationalities and granted at Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah airports. If your passport is not on the list, pre-apply to avoid refusal at check-in. Always double-check the latest list on the ICP site before booking flights.

Extending your visit visa inside the UAE

You can extend once online via ICP before expiry. The 30-day visa becomes a 30-day extension (AED 600) and the 60-day visa can become another 60 days. Overstaying even one day triggers fines, so set a phone reminder.

Key takeaway

Applying for a UAE visit visa is straightforward if you use official channels, keep documents ready, and watch expiry dates. Start the process at least a week before travel to avoid last-minute stress and extra fees.