uae visit visa sticker

• Latest News
• Emergencies
• Ask the Law
• GN Fun Drive
• Visa+Immigration
• Phone+Internet
• Reader Queries
• Safety+Security
• Banking & Insurance
• Dubai Airshow
• Corporate Tax
• Top Destinations
• Corporate News
• Electronics
• Home and Kitchen
• Consumables
• Saving and Investment
• Budget Living
• Expert Columns
• Community Tips
• Cryptocurrency
• Cooking and Cuisines
• Guide to Cooking
• Art & People
• Friday Partner
• Daily Crossword
• Word Search
• Philippines
• Australia-New Zealand
• Corrections
• From the Editors
• Special Reports
• Pregnancy & Baby
• Learning & Play
• Child Health
• For Mums & Dads
• UAE Success Stories
• Live the Luxury
• Culture and History
• Staying Connected
• Entertainment
• Live Scores
• Point Table
• Top Scorers
• Photos & Videos
• Course Reviews
• Learn to Play
• South Indian
• Arab Celebs
• Health+Fitness
• Gitex Global 2023
• Best Of Bollywood
• Special Features
• Investing in the Future
• Know Plan Go
• Gratuity Calculator
• Notifications
• Prayer Times

No visa sticker on your passport? Here’s how you can get an official copy

Living in uae.

Online service allows residents to get a digital version of their visa page

• Visa + Immigration
• Telephone + Internet
• Safety + Security
• Taqdeer Award

No 90-day notice, can I ignore rent increase demand?

Who pays for rain damage in rented property?

Summer on the way: Try this indoor sports complex

Unlocking hope: Why you should donate cord blood

Travel from Ajman to Dubai for just Dh15

9 ways to legally earn a side income in the UAE

Get Breaking News Alerts From Gulf News

We’ll send you latest news updates through the day. You can manage them any time by clicking on the notification icon.

Before you fly

UAE Visa Information

There may still be COVID-19 travel restrictions in some countries. Check our COVID-19 hub before you travel.

Do I need a visa for the UAE?

You’ll find information about visas below. Use our quick visa search tool to see if you need a visa and the passport requirements for visiting the UAE.

UAE visa on arrival

Preapproved uae visas, prearranged uae visas, sponsoring someone to visit the uae, contact information, 30-day visit eligibility.

If you are a passport holder of the below country or territory, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply disembark your flight at Dubai International and proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge.

90-day visit eligibility

If you are a passport holder of one of the below countries or territories, your passport will be stamped with a multiple entry 90-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 90 days in total. Citizens of the below European countries are also entitled to apply for a pre-arranged visit visa if their 90-day visa on arrival has been fully utilized.

180-day visit eligibility

If you hold a Mexican passport you’re eligible for a multiple entry 180-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 180 days in total.

Dubai immigration procedures

As an added security measure, Immigration Authorities at Dubai International are now conducting random eye screening for visitors to Dubai.

Visitors asked to proceed for eye screening are required to present a hard copy of their visa or a printed version of the visa number confirmation page at the screening counter. If you do not have a copy with you, a charge of AED 30 per copy applies - payable only in AED.

Important information

Before you travel to the UAE, please check your visa requirements and make sure you have a valid visa if needed, or if your passport needs to be valid for 6 months. Holders of non-standard passports and travel documents may also have different entry requirements: find out if you need to apply for a visa and other passport requirements.

As of 29 April 2016, GCC residence permit holders will need to apply for a UAE visa before arriving in Dubai.

New visit entry permit to the UAE for Indian nationals

From 7 January 2024, eligible Indian nationals with a normal passport valid for a minimum of six months can obtain a single entry, 14-day visa on arrival. A fee of USD 63 applies.

Eligibility

• Indian passport holder with USA visa valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with USA green card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with UK residence card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with EU residence card from the following countries valid for a minimum of six months

How and where to apply for a pre-approved UAE visa

Eligible Indian nationals can apply for their UAE entry permit on emirates.com through Manage your booking .

• For Extension, Original passport and ticket copy required.
• Extensions can be made at the airport office only.

Required applicant documents.

• Colour photograph of applicant
• Colour copy of applicant's passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months
• You can download the application form (available at all Emirates Ticketing Offices) in  Arabic (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  or English (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  depending on the applicant’s nationality.
• A copy of your Emirates Airline ticket, or codeshare flight that starts with the code “EK”, and the ticket number should start with “176”.
• Proof of relationship if applying for family member - birth certificate, marriage certificate and family book
• All Documents to be submitted as hard copy
• Additional documents may be required by the authorities.

Additional documents are required for visitors of some countries

Additional documents may be required, depending on your country of residence. Please use our visa search tool above or visit our visa requirements page for more information.

Rules and conditions

• Sponsor or applicant will be responsible for a visitor overstay and overstay fines.
• A Refundable deposit of AED 1000 for friend. Sponsor must claim the deposit within a maximum of 2 years from the application submission date.
• Refund of visa fee before processing of an application, AED 50 will be deducted on refund process.
• Visa fees must be paid upon application.
• Additional visa processing fees may apply.
• Visa fees are non-refundable.
• The ticket is non-refundable if the visa has been issued and utilized.
• Visa processing time is approximately 3 to 4 working days.
• Entry into the UAE is subject to immigration approval.
• All visas are valid to enter Dubai for 60 days from the date of issue, except the 96-hour and 48-hour visas, which are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

How and where to apply for your prearranged UAE visa

• Apply online through Manage your booking
• 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are valid for travel with Emirates tickets outbound from Dubai. You can only apply for a transit visa online or at the Emirates Commercial Visa APT office at Dubai International airport Terminal 3.

Apply online

Nationals of countries requiring a prearranged UAE visa can now apply and pay for their visas online through emirates.com.

If you are travelling to or stopping over in Dubai with Emirates, you can submit an application and receive your UAE visa entirely online – without having to submit your passport for stamping. You can apply for your UAE visa through our Manage your booking after you book your Emirates flight. VFS processing fees apply. For more information please visit VFS Global.

The online visa application service is available for residents and nationals of many countries around the world. Find out if you can apply for a UAE visa. Applicants' passports must have at least six months' validity as of their date of travel to Dubai, and must be machine readable passports – handwritten passports are not accepted.

This service is only available to passengers with a confirmed Emirates booking where an Emirates ticket has already been issued and the flight itinerary already includes the desired time in Dubai. The itinerary into and out of Dubai should be on one ticket (PNR), and these flights must be Emirates flights. Note that any itineraries including any flights to or from Dubai on other carriers are not eligible for the online visa service.

A minimum of four international working days prior to arrival in Dubai is required, however Emirates does recommend that online applications are made as early as possible.

Apply in the UAE

If you have a family member or near relative who is a UAE resident, they can apply for a visa on your behalf at any of our ticketing offices in the UAE. Please note that this service is only available to residents of the UAE.

Download the prearranged visa application form

Get started on your prearranged visa application by downloading and filling out the form.

Required applicant documents:

• A colour passport photograph
• A colour copy of your passport (must be valid for six months)
• The visa application form

Required sponsor documents:

Minimum salary required, download the sponsorship application form.

Get started on your sponsorship application by downloading and filling out the form.

Visa and sponsorship applications can be submitted to:

Abu Dhabi Emirates Ticketing Office: Al Sawari Tower C, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Visa Services: Monday to Thursday (8:30am to 5pm) Friday (8:30am to 4:30pm) Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays.

Ajman Emirates Ticketing Office Escape Tower, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Street Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 8pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Al Ain Emirates Ticketing Office Commercial Complex, Sheikh Khalifa Street Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8:30am to 6pm) and Saturday (8:30am to 5:30pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Dubai International: Terminal 3 Arrivals Phone: 04 504 7300 E-mail: [email protected] Visa Services: Monday to Friday (7am to 7pm) and Saturday (9am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Emirates Group Technology Centre, Ground Floor Entrance B, Al Ittihad Road, near Clock Tower, Deira Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (10am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Town Centre, Jumeirah Visa Services: Daily from (10am to 4pm)

VFS Global Services GCC VASCO Worldwide 2nd floor, WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, UAE

Sharjah Emirates Ticketing Office: Crystal Plaza, Buhaira Corniche Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 7pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

• Before You Fly
• Visa and Passport
• UAE visa information

• Environment
• Road to Net Zero
• Art & Design
• Film & TV
• Music & On-stage
• Pop Culture
• Fashion & Beauty
• Home & Garden
• Things to do
• Combat Sports
• Horse Racing
• Beyond the Headlines
• Trending Middle East
• Business Extra
• Culture Bites
• Year of Elections
• Pocketful of Dirhams
• Books of My Life
• Iraq: 20 Years On

New Emirates ID rules replacing residency visas come into effect

Sticker with person’s residency details will no longer take up page in their passport.

The new Emirates ID looks like this. Stan Cooper / The National

Emirates ID cards have now officially replaced residency visa stickers.

The change came into force on Monday. The sticker with a person’s residency details will no longer take up a page in their passport.

Instead, all details will be stored on the Emirates ID card .

The change merges residence and identity card applications, instead of processing them separately.

This has a number of benefits.

Emirates ID to replace residency visa stamp in passports

What are the advantages?

Anyone applying for a new residency visa used to have to submit their passport to have the sticker applied. In some cases, it took weeks for that process to be completed.

The new rule means people will not be separated from their passport and will therefore be able to travel abroad.

It also cuts paperwork, as well as the time it takes to process applications.

What does this mean for travel?

Airports will be able to verify people’s residency status via their Emirates ID cards and passport number.

Smart gates at airports in the UAE now also accept biometric passports. If you are registered for the smart gates, you can pass through by simply looking at the green light on top of the camera to verify your biometrics.

Who does this change affect?

Any foreign resident applying for an Emirates ID , either new or renewal.

The card, which contains an ID number unique to each cardholder, is used to access government and smart gate services to speed up travel at airports.

The Emirates ID card has received an upgrade .

New cards include a 3D picture, showing the date of birth of the cardholder, along with enhanced protection of “non-visible data” and a longer service life of more than 10 years.

They also store additional data, such as employment information.

The UAE Today

The latest news and analysis from the Emirates

Issuing a multi-entry tourist visa (5 years)

Quick links.

This link will direct you to an external site that may have different policies for use of content and privacy than the site of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai.

Please note that GDRFA Dubai do not manage external websites linked from GDRFA Dubai website, therefore in some situations, the external website might open in different language than your preferred language, and users might need to switch to their preferred language on the external website itself.

Use toggle below to switch the contrast

Listen to the content of the page by clicking play on Listen

Use the buttons below to increase or decrease the text size

UAE: Residents to no longer get visa stickers in passports

The Emirates ID card issued to all foreigners residing in the UAE will instead serve as the alternative to proving their residence status within the country

Authorities in the UAE have confirmed that starting April 11, foreigners residing in the UAE will no longer be issued with residence visa stickers in their passports.

The Emirates ID card issued to them will instead serve as the alternative to proving their residence status within the country, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.

The authority pointed out that the cancellation decision was in implementation of the decision of the UAE Cabinet to reduce the steps associated with the process of issuing and renewing residence permits of foreigners.

Major General Saeed Rakan Al Rashidi, acting director general of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, said that the previous model of the residence sticker will be available electronically only through the authority’s smart app. This step aims to enhance flexibility towards using the identity card as an alternative during transitionary period.

The residence and the identity card apps will be joined in a new unified form that includes the issuance and renewal of the residence and identity card services in one app, instead of the previous separate apps, according to news agency WAM.

The authority added that its smart app provides the possibility to obtain the electronic copy of the identity card, with new generation of the Emirates ID card issued to foreigners residing in the UAE featuring all the details mentioned previously in the residence sticker that proves their identity along with information on their personal and professional data, the issuing entity and other readable data on the surface of the card.

تعرف على مميزات بطاقة الهوية الجديدة. Learn about the features of the new Emirates ID card. ____ ⁧ #الهيئة_الاتحادية_للهوية_والجنسية_والجمارك_وأمن_المنافذ ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ #IdentityCitizenshipCustomsAndPortSecurity pic.twitter.com/AzhZEs6SaK — Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE (@UAEICP) March 31, 2022

Al Rashidi confirmed that the authority has developed the technical facilities to obtain individuals’ residency details through a printed form that can be applied for with the authority’s stamp, through individuals’ accounts using the authority’s application or through the smart services system via the website www.icp.gov.ae, which allows the possibility of printing the residence details form in three steps.

You might also like

Trends shaping real estate in the GCC: An in-depth conversation with Anshuman Magazine of CBRE

UAE launches Blue Residency visa for environmental advocates: Everything you need to know

DP World concludes major expansion of Mina Hamriya project

Supermarket chain Spinneys posts Dhs75m in Q1 profit

In the dark hours: 5 challenges haunting middle east ceos, gulf business may 2024 roundup: mastercard, supercar blondie and more, at dubai south, the future takes shape now: khalifa al zaffin, latest issue.

• Saudi Arabia
• Real Estate
• Special Report
• Art & Culture

Advertise With Us

Privacy policy.

© 2021 MOTIVATE MEDIA GROUP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

What is the UAE's blue visa and who can apply?

T he UAE has announced a new long-term residency visa. Known as the blue visa , it will grant a 10-year residency to people who have made “exceptional contributions” towards protecting the nation's environment.

Announced after a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid , Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the decision aligns with the country’s long-term goals of making the UAE more sustainable.

The new visa is the latest to be introduced in the UAE, following in the footsteps of the golden visa , which also offers a 10-year residency. A number of other initiatives, such as the green and remote working visas, have also been issued in recent years.

One of the country's leading recruiters said the visas offering long-term stays in the UAE had been a big success so far.

"The biggest benefit [of a ten-year visa] is that it has made it possible to live here without needing to be under the sponsorship of a company," said David Mackenzie, group managing director of recruitment agency Mackenzie Jones. "It gives you so much freedom."

The newly introduced visa will also go some way to not only attracting talent but also enticing those currently living in the UAE to extend their stay, said a leading sustainability expert.

"It will help retain talent because not everyone stays here for 10 years because they are tied to the standard visa, sponsored by their employers, which lasts for two years," said Ivano Iannelli, senior adviser for sustainability at Emirates Global Aluminium.

"Of course it will attract new talent but it will also offer an element of security to those who are already here. It shows the ambition of the UAE."

The National takes a look at who can apply for one.

Who can apply for a blue visa?

"The visa will be granted to individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental protection and sustainability, offering them a ten-year residency in the UAE, and is part of the UAE’s Year of Sustainability," read a statement shared by state news agency Wam.

The visa will be available to individuals who have made exceptional contributions and efforts in the field of protecting the environment, whether marine or land.

Work towards improving air quality and sustainable technology will also be rewarded, the authorities said.

How can you apply?

"Sustainability advocates and experts who are interested in the UAE Blue Residency are invited to submit their applications directly through the services of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, or through nominations by competent authorities in the state for the individuals recommended for it," read a statement on Sheikh Mohammed's website.

Why is it important?

The announcement of a blue visa for contributions to protecting the environment is groundbreaking, said Dr Sultan Al Jaber , Cop28 President and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology.

“The blue residency visa aims to attract global environmental leaders to contribute to the UAE's sustainable economic and social development," said Dr Al Jaber.

"It underscores the nation's dedication to leveraging advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to create impactful solutions.

"With a forward-thinking approach, these solutions will address climate challenges and transform them into opportunities for a brighter future for humanity and our planet.”

Dr Al Jaber said the blue visa was in line with the legacy created by the Cop28 conference, the UN climate change summit that took place in Dubai last year.

“The conference was a paradigm shift, showcasing the UAE's unwavering commitment to multilateralism, international co-operation, and developing a united global approach to the challenges of climate change," he said.

"This visa will build on that good work and will help further establish the UAE as a front-runner in the development of technologies, such as artificial intelligence, that can help address climate change.”

Attracting talent

One of the main reasons for the introduction of the blue visa is to continue making the UAE an attractive prospect for skilled people from abroad, who are considering their future options, a UAE minister said.

"The Blue Residency will have a major role in attracting talents in the field including innovators, and climate champions from all over the world, who will contribute to the advancement of the UAE’s work in fostering a sustainable future for all," said Dr Amna Al Shamsi , Minister of Climate Change and Environment.

What other kind of visas are available in the UAE?

Residency visa for people working in the private sector - This is the most common visa available in the UAE. It lasts for two years before requiring renewal and is sponsored by a person's employer.

Golden visa - This is a 10-year visa awarded to people under a number of categories. You could be a property investor, entrepreneur, highly talented person, nurse, doctor, director, sportsperson, holder of a PhD, specialist, or an outstanding pupil.

Green visa - This is available to those who have their own businesses and are not working for, or sponsored by, an employer. The green visa lasts for five years.

A five-year residency is also available for freelancers and self-employed people, without the need to obtain a sponsor or employer in the UAE.

Investors establishing or participating in commercial activities are also eligible for a green visa.

Remote working visa - In March 2021, the UAE announced the introduction of a residence permit for remote workers , which came into effect in September 2022.

Golden visa for students - A high-school pupil who has achieved excellent results can be granted a golden visa for five years without a sponsor.

This can be extended if the course they are studying lasts for more than five years.

Tourist visa - A 60-day visit visa for tourists is now standard, instead of the previous 30-day one.

Multi-entry visa - The five-year multi-entry tourist visa does not require a sponsor and allows the holder to stay in the country for up to 90 consecutive days, as long as they have $4,000 or its equivalent in their bank account.

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Uae launches 10-year blue residency visa; here are all the details.

The UAE has introduced a new 10-year Blue Residency visa for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to environmental protection, whether on land or in marine environments. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, announced the visa, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the country's future. Eligible individuals can apply through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.

Can a foreigner on a work visa in Dubai switch to UAE Golden Visa?

Unified GCC visa: Middle East’s multi-nation travel permit to be rolled out this year

UAE announces visa support for Indians hosting destination weddings in Abu Dhabi

Read More News on

14,000 PIN codes, 6,500 franchisees: A courier major is bulking up for e-commerce

A Bitter hacker, a one-line mail: How Pak, China are beaten at their own game

Blinkit’s all-out assault on Q-commerce worry shareholders. Here are answers to their questions.

The secret to restoring trust in Indian spices needs more than one ingredient

Quick commerce has triggered this unlikely shift in Indian consumer behaviour

Stock Radar: Multibagger in a year! This defence stock is flying high: should you buy or book profits?

Find this comment offensive?

Choose your reason below and click on the Report button. This will alert our moderators to take action

Reason for reporting:

Your Reason has been Reported to the admin.

To post this comment you must

Log In/Connect with:

Fill in your details:

Will be displayed

Will not be displayed

Share this Comment:

Uh-oh this is an exclusive story available for selected readers only..

Worry not. You’re just a step away.

Prime Account Detected!

It seems like you're already an ETPrime member with

Login using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits

Log out of your current logged-in account and log in again using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits.

To read full story, subscribe to ET Prime

₹34 per week

Billed annually at ₹2499 ₹1749

Super Saver Sale - Flat 30% Off

On ET Prime Membership

Unlock this story and enjoy all members-only benefits.

Offer Exclusively For You

Save up to Rs. 700/-

ON ET PRIME MEMBERSHIP

Get 1 Year Free

With 1 and 2-Year ET prime membership

Get Flat 40% Off

Then ₹ 1749 for 1 year

ET Prime at ₹ 49 for 1 month

6th Anniversary Offer

Get flat 20% off on ETPrime

90 Days Prime access worth Rs999 unlocked for you

Exclusive Economic Times Stories, Editorials & Expert opinion across 20+ sectors

Stock analysis. Market Research. Industry Trends on 4000+ Stocks

​Get 1 Year Complimentary Subscription of TOI+ worth Rs.799/-​

Stories you might be interested in

• Hi, My Account Subscriptions --> My KT Trading Contact Us Privacy Notice Sign Out

Fri, May 17, 2024 | Dhu al-Qadah 9, 1445

Dubai 20°C

• Expo City Dubai
• Emergencies
• Ras Al Khaimah
• Umm Al Quwain

Life and Living

• Visa & Immigration in UAE
• Banking in UAE
• Schooling in UAE
• Housing in UAE
• Ramadan 2024
• Saudi Arabia
• Philippines
• Cryptocurrency
• Infrastructure
• Currency Exchange
• Horse Racing
• Local Sports

Entertainment

• Local Events

Dubai World Cup

• Track Notes
• Big Numbers
• Daily Updates
• Arts & Culture
• Mental Health
• Relationships
• Staycations
• UAE Attractions
• Tech Reviews
• Motoring Reviews
• Movie Reviews
• Book reviews
• Restaurant Reviews
• Young Times

Supplements

• Back To School
• Eid-Al-Adha
• It’s Summer Time
• Leading Universities
• Higher Education
• India Real Estate Show
• Future Of Insurance
• KT Desert Drive
• New Age Finance & Accounting Summit
• Digital Health Forum
• Subscriptions
• UAE Holidays
• Year of the 50th
• Latest News
• Prayer Timings
• Cinema Listings
• Inspired Living
• Advertise With Us
• Privacy Notice

KT APPDOWNLOAD

UAE announces new 10-year Blue Residency visa: Who can apply and how?

Applicable fields include boosting the air quality and green technology.

Sahim Salim

• Follow us on

Embracing the bright side: A guide on how to cultivate optimism

The power of solitude: Why you should go on a solo trip

How to get your kids to read: Essential tips for parents

Published: Wed 15 May 2024, 6:38 PM

Last updated: Wed 15 May 2024, 11:24 PM

The UAE has announced a long-term residency for environment advocates. Called ‘Blue Residency’, the 10-year visa will be granted to individuals who have made “exceptional contributions and efforts” in protecting the environment.

This covers sustainability initiatives both inside and outside the UAE.

The Blue Residency will be granted to supporters of environmental action, including members of international companies, associations and non-governmental organisations; global award winners; and “distinguished” activists and researchers in environmental work.

Eligible individuals have been invited to submit their applications through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. Relevant authorities can also nominate individuals for the long-term residency.

“The sustainability of our economy has become linked to the sustainability of our environment,” said Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as he chaired a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

The new residency scheme is part of initiatives that the country has launched to mark 2024 as the year of sustainability. The sustainability drive was extended into 2024 after green themes dominated last year - when the country invited residents to join in the collective efforts to adopt sustainable practices.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

The UAE typically issues residency visas that have a validity of two years. In 2019, the country announced a 10-year residency scheme called Golden Visas for investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates and humanitarian pioneers, among others. Three years after, the country announced a five-year residency called green visas for skilled professionals, freelancers, investors and entrepreneurs.

• New UAE visa system: From Golden to Green residencies and updated entry permits; 5 things you need to know
• Re-entry permit for UAE residency visa holders explained: Cost, eligibility, refund, how to apply
• UAE residency visas: 7 changes you need to know
• UAE: 4 residency visa options for students; cost, process explained
• Newsletters
• [email protected]

More news from UAE

Dubai metro stations to reopen soon: residents 'can't wait' for daily commute to ease.

Onpassive, Equiti, Mashreq, and Energy stations have been shut since unstable weather conditions hit the country in April

uae 14 hours ago -->

UAE welcomes 17th group of wounded Palestinian children, cancer patients

Medical teams in Abu Dhabi transfer the wounded and those in need of immediate care to hospitals

uae 15 hours ago -->

Work from home during emergencies: UAE employees hope for flexibility 1 month after storm

Since April 16, individuals held multiple meetings with employers, suggesting work-from-home options during challenging situations

How UAE residents can be part of the next breakthrough drug discovery

Residents can contribute to the cord blood bank through different speciality hospitals in the emirate of Abu Dhabi

uae 16 hours ago -->

UAE: More than 70% of workforce says productivity rises in office

97 per cent of most engaged employees are likely to stay with their company next year

uae 17 hours ago -->

Dh60,000 prizes, free entry: Concerts, family-friendly events in Abu Dhabi this weekend

From concerts to comedy shows, there is something for all age groups to do this weekend in the capital city

uae 18 hours ago -->

Dubai: Woman wins $1 million after buying Duty Free ticket with husband's cash gift

The Indian visitor said she bought a ticket every time they travelled, alternating the names on the tickets

Dubai: Schools seek ideas from parents on tackling traffic jams

The online survey is being conducted by RTA in cooperation with KHDA

uae 19 hours ago -->

Type your keywords

• Other languages
• Accessibility

• Information and services
• About the UAE
• Visa and Emirates ID

Transit visa

The UAE issues two types of transit visas: one for 48 hours, and another for 96 hours. Transit visas are sponsored by the UAE-based airlines and must be processed and approved before entering the UAE

Related eServices

Who needs a transit visa, who can apply for your transit visa, duration of transit visa, important note.

• Transit visa from Etihad Airways  - Etihad Airways
• Transit visa from Emirates Airline  - Emirates Airline

If you are not one of the nationalities that are eligible for visa on arrival  or a  visa-free entry  to the UAE, then you need a transit visa.

Only the UAE based-airlines you are travelling through can arrange your transit visa prior to your journey. If your trip is through a travel agency, the agency can also help you get the visa, but all visas are routed through the airline. Airline agents can apply online for transit visas through one of the following means:

• the  eChannels  portal
• the UAEICP app for  Apple  and  Android
• online channels offered by the relevant General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in each emirate.

Transit visa is issued either for 48 hours or for 96 hours. Please note that once a 48 hours visa is issued, it cannot be extended to 96 hours.

Transit visas for 48 hours

Transit visas for 48 hours are issued free of charge to passengers transiting through the UAE’s airports. You need to apply for the visa in advance through a UAE-based airline. This visa is not extendable, nor renewable. The validity of the visa is 48 hours from entry into the UAE, and you must leave the UAE within 48 hours from arrival.

To get a transit visa, you must have:

• a passport or travel document with a minimum validity of three months
• a photo of self against a white background
• an onward ticket booking to a 3rd destination, other than the one you are coming from.

Transit visas for 96 hours

Transit visas for 96 hours are issued against a fee of AED 50 to passengers transiting through the UAE’s airports. You need to apply for the visa in advance through a UAE-based airline. This visa is not extendable, nor renewable. The validity of the visa is 96 hours from entry into the UAE, and you must leave the UAE within 96 hours from arrival.

• a passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months

No fees or additional amounts can be imposed by any federal, local or private entity. A departure fee of AED 30 is levied on each passenger passing through the UAE’s airports.

Useful links:

• Travel guide - Zayed International Airport
• Check the requirements for your UAE visa  - Etihad Airways
• How to apply for your UAE visa  - Emirates Airline

Learn more about  visas in the UAE .

Was this information helpful?

Give us your feedback so we can improve your experience.

Thank you for submitting your feedback.

Popular searches

• Government services around the clock
• Moving to the UAE
• العربية Other languages