Dubai Transit Visa 2026 – 48/96-Hour Stopover Rules, Eligibility, Documents & Online Application

Flying through Dubai and want to make the most of your layover? The Dubai Transit Visa lets eligible travelers spend up to 48 or 96 hours in the city while connecting to a third country. Below is a clear, up-to-date guide on who needs it, which option to pick, required documents, application steps, fees, and practical tips—all aligned for 2026.

What Is a Dubai Transit Visa?

A Dubai Transit Visa is a short-stay entry permit designed for passengers transiting through the UAE on their way to another country. It’s ideal if you want a quick stopover to sightsee, rest at a hotel, or meet clients between flights.

Myth busted: A transit visa does not confine you to the airport. If approved, you can clear immigration and explore Dubai during its validity.

Who Needs a Dubai Transit Visa in 2026?

You may need a transit visa if:

• Your nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival; and

• You have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country; and

• Your layover is longer than a few hours and you want to exit the airport.

If your nationality is visa-free/visa-on-arrival, or if you plan to stay airside between flights, you might not need a transit visa. When in doubt, apply in advance.

Dubai Transit Visa Types & Validity (48/96 Hours)

48-Hour Transit Visa

• Best for: Very short stopovers with a single overnight.

• Validity of stay: Up to 48 hours from entry.

• Extensions: Not extendable.

96-Hour Transit Visa

• Best for: Longer layovers (up to 4 days) to experience the city.

• Validity of stay: Up to 96 hours from entry.

• Extensions: Not extendable.

Can I Leave the Airport on a Transit Visa?

Yes. Once your transit visa is stamped/activated, you can exit the airport, check into a hotel, and explore Dubai within the allowed hours.

Eligibility & Entry Conditions

To qualify in 2026, you generally need:

• Confirmed onward flight to a third country within 48 or 96 hours.

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity from entry).

• Valid ticket and layover window matching the visa you choose.

• No intention to work or overstay.

• Clean immigration record and compliance with UAE entry health/security checks.

Documents Required for Dubai Transit Visa 2026

• Passport (valid 6+ months from arrival).

• Recent passport-size photo (white background).

• Confirmed onward/return ticket (showing departure within 48/96 hours).

• Hotel booking (recommended if exiting the airport).

• Basic itinerary (arrival and departure times; planned activities).

• Travel/medical insurance (advised; some carriers/routes require it).

• Payment receipt (when applying online).

Photo & Passport Specifications

• Color photo, front-facing, no sunglasses/headgear (unless religious).

• High-resolution JPEG/JPG/PNG; no shadows.

• Passport bio page scan must be clear, in color, and fully visible.

Tickets, Hotel & Insurance

• Your connecting flight must depart within 48 or 96 hours from entry.

• If you plan to rest or explore, add a hotel booking.

• Carry insurance covering the full stopover.

How to Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa Online (Step-by-Step)

The entire process is digital. We review documents to minimize errors and delays.

Step 1: Choose 48h or 96h

Go to DubaiVisitorVisa.com and select Transit Visa (48 or 96 Hours) based on your layover length.

Step 2: Upload Documents

Provide a clear passport scan, photo, onward ticket, and (if exiting the airport) hotel booking.

Step 3: Pay Securely

Complete payment via our secure gateway. You’ll receive a confirmation and tracking reference.

Step 4: Get Your E-Visa by Email

Once processed, your e-visa/permit is emailed. Print or save it for airline check-in and UAE immigration.

Processing Time, Fees, Extensions & Overstay Rules

• Processing time: Typically a few working days; apply early, especially in peak seasons.

• Fees: Depend on 48h vs 96h, service speed, and inclusions. Final price is shown at checkout.

• Extensions: Not allowed for transit visas (choose 96h if you need more time).

• Overstay: Fines apply if you stay beyond 48/96 hours. Exit before your visa expires.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection

• Wrong visa type (choosing tourist instead of transit, or vice-versa).

• Insufficient passport validity (<6 months).

• Unclear scans or mismatched names vs. passport.

• No confirmed onward flight within 48/96 hours.

• Applying too late (submit several days in advance).

• Booking non-refundable hotels before visa approval (use flexible rates).

Dubai Stopover Ideas (If You Have 6–96 Hours)

• 6–12 hours: Marina walk, quick beach visit, or a skyline viewpoint.

• 24–48 hours: Old Dubai (souks, creek abra), Museum of the Future exterior, evening fountains.

• Up to 96 hours: Half-day desert safari, a full Dubai city tour, plus time for shopping and dining.

(Plan with travel time in mind; Dubai is large and traffic can vary.)

Why Apply with DubaiVisitorVisa.com

• Expert review of your documents to reduce rejection risk.

• Fast, secure online process with status tracking.

• Transparent pricing—no hidden extras.

• Support team available throughout your journey.

Pro Tip: If you decide to spend longer than 4 days, consider a 30-day Visitor/Tourist Visa instead of transit.

Apply Now – Make the Most of Your Layover

Turn your connection into a mini-vacation.
👉 Apply for your 48/96-hour Dubai Transit Visa now at DubaiVisitorVisa.com for a quick, secure approval process.