How long does it take to get a transit visa at DXB?

Usually 10–15 minutes at the immigration counter once you present your passport and onward ticket.

Can I leave the airport with a 48-hour transit visa?

Yes, the visa allows you to exit the airport and move freely inside the UAE for the full validity period.

Do I need hotel booking to get the transit visa?

No, proof of onward travel is enough; hotel bookings are not required for transit visas.

What if my nationality is not eligible on arrival?

You must apply for a UAE visa in advance through ICP or your airline; the airport will not issue it.

Is the transit visa fee refundable if I miss my flight?

No, fees are non-refundable; you will need to buy a new visa if you re-enter later.

Can I Get a Transit Visa at Dubai Airport in 2026?

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Quick answer

Yes, most travellers can obtain a 48-hour Dubai transit visa on arrival at DXB or DWC for AED 150 when they hold a confirmed onward ticket departing within 48 hours. A 96-hour visa costs AED 300. Both are issued at immigration counters and stamped into your passport. Always double-check your eligibility on the airline or ICP website before you travel.

Who qualifies for an on-arrival transit visa?

Airlines issue the visa on behalf of the UAE government. You qualify if:

Your layover is between 8 and 96 hours
You have a confirmed ticket to a third country (not back to the origin)
Your passport is valid for at least six months from arrival
You are not a citizen of one of the visa-exemption countries

Nationalities that need the visa

Travellers from most African, Asian and some Latin American countries must apply for the transit visa in advance or on arrival. Check the ICP “Smart Services” portal or ask your airline before booking.

Step-by-step: getting the visa at DXB or DWC

Land and follow the “Visa on Arrival” or “Transit Visa” signs after immigration.
Present your passport, onward ticket and the fee (cash or card).
Photo is taken on the spot; no extra documents required.
Collect your passport with the stamped visa within 10–15 minutes.

Current 2026 fees and validity

The fee is AED 150 for 48 hours and AED 300 for 96 hours. Children under 18 travelling with parents are usually free. These amounts are set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and rarely change; confirm with your airline on the day of travel.

Common mistakes travellers make

Assuming every nationality can get the visa on arrival.
Booking a same-day return ticket to the origin country.
Arriving without proof of onward travel printed or on the phone.
Carrying a passport valid for less than six months.

Transit visa vs. visa on arrival vs. visa required

Visa type	Duration	Best for	Where to get it
Transit (airside)	48–96 hrs	Short layovers	DXB/DWC immigration
Visa on arrival	30–90 days	Tourism or business	DXB/DWC immigration
Pre-arranged e-visa	30–60 days	Longer stays	ICP or airlines

Tips for a smooth transit

Download the “UAE ICP’ app and save your passport scan.
Choose flights that give at least 4 hours between landing and next departure.
If you need a quick hotel, “Dubai Airport Hotel” inside Terminal 3 offers day-use rates from AED 400.
Keep AED 200 cash handy in case the card machine is offline.

Can you extend a transit visa?

Generally, no. If your onward flight is cancelled and you need more time, visit the GDRFA Amer centre at DXB (near Terminal 3) before the visa expires. Overstaying even one day incurs a fine of AED 50 per day and possible travel bans.

Key takeaway

Getting a Dubai transit visa at the airport is fast and inexpensive for most visitors who already hold onward tickets. Just confirm your nationality’s eligibility, carry the fee in cash or card, and you’ll be airside exploring the airport lounges or the city within minutes.