Dubai Visa & Entry Permit Guide 2026: Types, Requirements, Fees & Fast Online Application

Dubai is one of the world’s most visited cities—famous for safety, seamless transport, and record-breaking attractions. To enter, most travelers need a UAE entry permit (visa) that matches their purpose of travel. This 2026 guide explains who needs a visa, the latest visa types, documents, fees, processing time, and the fastest way to apply online.

What Is a Dubai “Entry Permit” vs. “Visa”?

In everyday terms, entry permit and visa are used interchangeably. Practically, the permit authorizes your entry and defines how long you can stay. For longer stays (work, family, study), your entry is followed by residency procedures inside the UAE.

Who Needs a Dubai Visa in 2026?

• Visa-required nationalities: Must obtain a tourist/visit or other relevant entry permit before travel.

• Visa-on-arrival nationalities: Get stamped at the airport (duration varies by passport).

• GCC residents: May be eligible for pre-travel eVisa/entry depending on profession and passport.

• Transit passengers: Can use 48-hour free or 96-hour paid transit options if eligible.

Tip: If you’re unsure, use our quick checker on DubaiVisitorVisa.com or speak to our visa team.

Dubai Visa Types in 2026

30/60-Day Tourist Visa (Single/Multiple Entry)

Ideal for holidays, short visits and leisure travel. Single or multiple-entry options are available, typically valid to enter within 60 days from issue.

5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

Perfect for frequent visitors (business leaders, families). Allows multiple trips over five years with each stay up to 90 days (extendable up to 180 days per year, subject to rules).

Transit Visa: 48 & 96 Hours

• 48-hour transit: free, arranged in advance.

• 96-hour transit: paid option. Great for short city breaks between flights.

Visa on Arrival (Eligible Nationalities)

Many passports receive VOA on landing (durations vary). Always check current eligibility before you fly.

GCC Resident eVisa/Entry

GCC residents of certain professions may qualify for pre-travel eVisa/entry. Requirements vary by passport and residence status.

Business/Exploration Entry Permit

For short business trips, meetings, events, or market exploration. Does not authorize paid employment; for jobs, you need a work residence pathway.

Work/Employment Residence Visa

Sponsored by a UAE employer. After entry, you’ll complete medical, Emirates ID, and residency stamping steps.

Family/Dependent Residence Visa

UAE residents can sponsor spouses, children, and in many cases parents (subject to income and housing requirements).

Student Residence Visa

For full-time students admitted to UAE universities/colleges. Sponsor is typically the education institution (or a parent holding UAE residency).

Investor/Partner Visa

For entrepreneurs or shareholders who invest in a UAE entity or licensed activity (documents proving investment are required).

Green Visa (5-Year) & Golden Visa (10-Year)

Long-term residency tracks for skilled professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding talents and more, with sponsorship flexibility and extended stay benefits.

Dubai Tourist Visa Requirements (2026)

Prepare clear, legible documents to avoid delays:

• Passport valid 6+ months from your intended entry date

• Recent color photograph (white background)

• Return/onward ticket

• Hotel booking or UAE host details (address/ID)

• Bank statement or proof of funds (when requested)

• Travel insurance (highly recommended)

• Additional documents if required by nationality or visa type (e.g., NOC for minors, relationship proof for family visits)

Step-by-Step: Apply Online via DubaiVisitorVisa.com

1. Choose your visa: 30/60-day, multiple entry, transit, or others.

2. Complete the form: Fill accurate personal and travel details.

3. Upload documents: Passport, photo, tickets, accommodation, etc.

4. Select processing speed: Standard, Express or Super-Express (when available).

5. Pay securely online: Multiple digital options supported.

6. Track & receive: We email your e-Visa/permit once approved. Carry a print/soft copy while travelling.

Pro tip: Use the same email across booking, insurance and visa to simplify airline and immigration checks.

Fees & Processing Time: What to Expect

• Tourist visas: Short processing windows (often 24–72 hours), with express upgrades during peak seasons.

• Transit visas: 48-hour (free) & 96-hour (paid).

• Longer-term/Residency pathways: Timeline depends on sponsorship and in-country procedures after entry.

Exact fees vary by nationality, visa duration, and speed. See our live calculator on DubaiVisitorVisa.com.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejections

• Blurry/scanned photos and cropped passports → upload clear, full-page images.

• Mismatched travel dates → keep ticket and visa dates aligned.

• Wrong visa type → tourist vs. business vs. family: pick the correct category.

• Damaged passport → replace torn, water-stained or chipped-chip passports before applying.

• Last-minute filing in peak months → choose Express or apply earlier.

Is There Any Age, Marital or “OK-to-Board” Restriction?

• Age/Marital status: Dubai tourist visas do not impose blanket age or marital restrictions; however, minors must meet guardian consent requirements and solo young travelers may be asked for additional proof (consent, funds, accommodation).

• OK-to-Board (OTB): For tourists, most major airlines do not require OTB for UAE e-visas. Always confirm with your carrier at ticketing time, as airline policies can differ.

Why Apply with DubaiVisitorVisa.com

• Fast, secure online process with transparent pricing

• Multiple processing speeds (Standard/Express)

• Pre-check of documents to reduce refusals

• Real-time updates & 24/7 support

• Trusted by thousands of travelers annually

Conclusion & Call-to-Action

Dubai makes it easy to visit—if you choose the right visa and submit error-free documents. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, business visit, or a long stay, we’ll help you pick the best option and get approved fast.

Ready to travel?
👉 Apply for your Dubai Visitor Visa now at DubaiVisitorVisa.com and get a 2026-ready entry permit—quick, secure, and hassle-free.