One of the world’s most popular travel destinations is the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Whether you’re looking forward to a memorable honeymoon or a promising business opportunity, the UAE has its best to offer you. All the cities are full of life. Luxurious hotels, upscale shopping malls, high-tech theme parks, and cultural heritages are the trademarks of the UAE. Tourists come to explore Dubai’s modern skyline, visit Abu Dhabi’s grand mosques, or relax along the beaches. Most foreign travelers will require a tourist visa to enter the country. This guide explains, step by step, how to apply for a UAE tourist visa.

Do you need a Visa in the first place?

Before starting the application process, check whether you actually need a visa.

  • Visa-free countries: The UAE offers Visa-free entry to the citizens of GCC countries. They just need to show a GCC country passport or national ID card at the entry point.
  • Visa on arrival: Citizens of the USA, UK, and EU countries receive a visa at the airport. This visa can be valid for 30-90 days. Indian tourists who have a US green card or a US travel Visa can also enjoy an on-arrival Visa.
  • Pre-arranged visa required: If you are not a citizen of the countries that are eligible for visa-free entry or an On-arrival Visa, you have to prepare for Visa Processing.

You can confirm requirements by visiting the UAE government immigration website or the airline’s visa information page.

Choose the Right Visa Type

Several questions arise here. What is your purpose of travel? Is it merely a trip, or do you have a more important purpose? How many days may it take you to finish your work? And last but not least, what's your budget? Depending on the answers, you have to proceed with the visa type that is appropriate for you. The available tourist Visa options are:

  • Short-term tourist visa – 30 days, single entry.
  • Long-term tourist visa – 60 or 90 days, single or multiple entries.
  • Multiple-entry long-term visa – Ideal for those who plan to travel in and out of the UAE during their stay.

Through which medium should you apply?

You cannot apply directly to the UAE immigration for a tourist visa. You must proceed through any UAE-based airlines, travel agencies, or hotels. Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, and Air Arabia offer visa application services if you purchase tickets from them. Many registered travel agencies can handle the Visa process. Beware of fraud and unauthorised ones. Certain hotels can sponsor your visa if you book accommodation with them.

Do you have the documents?

Let’s check if you have all the necessary documents. The list ain't long. You need a handful of documents for the UAE tourist visa. Such as:

  • A Passport with a validity of at least 6 months. It must contain blank visa pages.
  • Flight booking confirmation.
  • Hotel booking or host’s invitation letter. These are the proofs of your accommodation.
  • You may need bank statements as proof of sufficient funds.

Submit Your Application

Arrange all the necessary documents. Choose a service provider wisely. After that, complete the following steps.

  1. Complete the visa application form that is available online through airlines, hotels, or agencies.
  2. Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
  3. Pay the visa fee.  (typically USD 90–150 for short-term visas; prices vary by type and processing speed).
  4. Submit the application for processing.

Wait for Processing

It takes 3–5 working days to process an ordinary tourist Visa. If you are ready to pay additional fees, you can get express services.  Under express service, you can get the job done within 48 hours. You’ll receive your e-visa via email once approved.

Save and Print Your E-Visa

Download and print your e-visa. Keep both a digital and printed copy with you during your travel.