What Are the Different Types of Dubai Visa and Their Cost.
Dubai, a global tourism and business hub in the UAE, welcomes millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re planning a vacation, attending a business meeting, or considering a longer stay for work or study, you’ll need a visa to enter Dubai (unless you’re from a visa-exempt country). The UAE offers a range of visa types to suit different travel purposes and durations.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of Dubai visas, their costs, validity, who needs them, and the application process.
Given are the pointers and the articulation of the blog.
- Tourist Visa to Dubai
- Transit Visa
- 18 to Dubai
- Visit Visa to Dubai
- Business Visa to Dubai
- Employment Visa
- Student Visa
- Freelance Visa
- Investor/ Partner
- Retirement Visa
- Golden Visa
- Visa Application Channels
- Key Considerations
- (FAQs)
Types of Dubai Visas
Tourist Visa to Dubai
The tourist visa is one of the most commonly issued visas for short-term travel to Dubai.
- Validity: 30 days or 60 days (single or multiple entry)
- Purpose: Tourism, visiting friends/family
- Extendable: Yes, up to 60 days
- Cost:
- 30-day single-entry: AED 330 – AED 370 (~$90–$100)
- 60-day single-entry: AED 499 – AED 550 (~$135–$150)
- Multiple-entry (30 days): AED 650 – AED 750
You can apply through airlines (like Emirates), travel agencies, or UAE-based sponsors.
Transit Visa to Dubai
Perfect for travelers passing through Dubai enroute to other countries.
- Validity: 48 hours or 96 hours
- Purpose: Short stopovers
- Extendable: No
- Eligibility: Must show proof of onward travel
- Cost:
- 48 hours: Free
- 96 hours: AED 50 (~$14)
This visa must be sponsored by a UAE-based airline and arranged before arrival.
Visit Visa to Dubai
Issued to those visiting relatives or friends in Dubai.
- Validity: 30 or 90 days
- Purpose: Family visit
- Sponsor: UAE resident (relative/family member)
- Extendable: Yes, once or twice for a fee
- Cost:
- 30-day single entry: AED 300 – AED 400
- 90-day single entry: AED 1000 – AED 1200
The sponsor must submit documents proving their residency and relationship.
Business Visa to Dubai
Part of the UAE’s long-term visa system, this visa is ideal for entrepreneurs and investors.
- Validity: 6 months (multiple entry, renewable)
- Purpose: Business setup, investment evaluation
- Eligibility: Entrepreneurs with previous experience
- Cost: AED 1,100 – AED 1,500 (~$300–$400)
This visa allows applicants to enter Dubai, evaluate opportunities, and later convert to a long-term residency.
Employment Visa
Issued to individuals who have secured a job in Dubai.
- Validity: Entry permit valid for 60 days; residence permit issued after
- Purpose: Work and employment
- Sponsor: Employer/company in Dubai
- Cost: Paid by employer (average AED 2,000 – AED 5,000, depending on profession and company size)
After arrival, a residence visa and Emirates ID are processed by the employer.
Student Visa
Issued to international students enrolled in Dubai-based universities.
- Validity: 1 year, renewable annually
- Purpose: Higher education
- Sponsor: Educational institution or parent
- Cost: AED 3,000 – AED 4,000 (including deposit and insurance)
Requires official enrollment letter and a minimum GPA for renewal.
Freelance Visa
Perfect for remote workers, creatives, and consultants.
- Validity: 1 – 2 years
- Sponsor: Self-sponsored
- Cost: AED 7,500 – AED 12,000 (~$2,000 – $3,200)
(includes license + visa + medical + Emirates ID)
Freelancers must provide proof of work contracts or portfolio and meet income thresholds.
Investor/Partner Visa
Issued to individuals investing in or owning a business in Dubai.
- Validity: 3 years, renewable
- Purpose: Business ownership
- Sponsor: Self-sponsored via investment
- Cost: AED 4,000 – AED 6,000, plus business licensing fees
You must provide legal ownership documents and company formation approvals.
Retirement Visa
For retirees aged 55+, looking to spend their golden years in Dubai.
- Validity: 5 years, renewable
- Eligibility: AED 1 million in savings or AED 20,000 monthly income
- Cost: AED 3,700 – AED 5,000
A unique offering for expats who’ve spent years in the region.
Golden Visa
Long-term residency for professionals, scientists, students, investors, and artists.
- Validity: 5 or 10 years
- Purpose: Residency without a sponsor
- Eligibility: High-net-worth individuals, exceptional talents, or academics
- Cost: Varies (Application + medical + Emirates ID: AED 2,800 – AED 4,000)
Offers stability, no local sponsor needed, and allows family sponsorship.
Visa Application Channels
You can apply for Dubai visas through:
- UAE-based airlines (Emirates, Etihad)
- UAE embassies/consulates
- Official UAE government portals (e.g., GDRFA, ICP)
- Authorized travel agencies
Dubai-based employers/universities
Key Considerations
- Overstaying fines: AED 50/day for tourist and visit visas
- Medical tests: Required for residence/employment/student visas
- Emirates ID: Issued for long-term visa holders
Insurance: Mandatory for some visa types
Conclusion
Dubai offers a variety of visa types to meet the diverse needs of visitors, professionals, investors, and long-term residents. Understanding the right visa for your purpose not only simplifies your application but also ensures you stay compliant with UAE immigration laws. Whether you’re coming for a few days or planning a long-term move, there’s a Dubai visa option tailored to you.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official UAE government websites or consult an authorized visa agent.
What Are the Different Types of Dubai Visa and Their Cost
Dubai visa fees vary based on type and duration. For instance, a 30-day single-entry tourist visa typically costs between AED 200 and AED 599. Additional charges may apply for express processing and other services.
As of 2025, a 30-day single-entry tourist visa ranges from AED 200 to AED 599, depending on the processing time and service provider.
Dubai does not offer a specific 7-day tourist visa. Travelers typically opt for a 30-day single-entry visa, which can be used for shorter stays.
Yes, you can apply for a Dubai visa online through authorized portals like Emirates, Akbar Travels, or Yatra. The process involves submitting documents, paying fees, and awaiting approval.
While there’s no 7-day visa, a 30-day single-entry tourist visa is available, with fees ranging from AED 200 to AED 599, depending on the service provider.
A single-entry visa allows you to enter the UAE once during its validity period. Once you exit, you cannot re-enter without obtaining a new visa.
The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to March, when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Yes, travelers can apply for a Dubai visa independently through online platforms, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
To apply for a Dubai visa, choose an authorized service provider, complete the online application form, submit required documents, pay the applicable fees, and await approval.
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