It is crucial to be knowledgeable about the current immigration regulations, entry requirements, and structural visa changes when planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates. From a quick getaway to Dubai for a few days, a two month vacation with family or even if you are making a long term plan to explore career options in the region, you should know about the official procedures beforehand to save time, money and trouble.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai have made some vital improvements in entry systems. The following entry guidelines have significant effects on popular 30-day, 60-day, and multi-entry visit options, digital processing timelines, extension procedures, and overstay fine structures.
Key Highlights of the UAE Visa Updates 2026
Most tourist visas are based on two types of periods: 30 days and 60 days. The 90-day visit category is reserved for certain categories, including close family sponsorship and the more popular 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visa category.
Immigration department takes strict action on overstayers in all the 7 emirates. Pre-paid tourist visas do not have a grace period, this means a daily fine of AED 50 is enforced for any overstay.
The normal e-visa is submitted through official digital portals of ICP and GDRFA which expedites the standard e-visa approvals usually within 24-48 hours.
Citizens of certain countries are eligible to enter the country with a specialized visa-on-arrival, and those holding valid residence visa or valid visa from the United States of America, United Kingdom, European Union, Canada, Japan and Australia can enter the country with a valid visa.
UAE Visit Visa Types Explained (30, 60 & 90 Days)
Depending on your travel plans, purpose and duration of stay, the UAE provides various types of visa.
The 30-Day Tou\rist Visa
The 30-day option is ideal for short vacations, weekends, business trips or transit. Applicants are allowed to select Single-Entry or Multiple-Entry. In this category, the visitor may stay in the UAE for 30 consecutive days from the date of entry. The single-entry variant is that the visa is lost as soon as you have left the border gates.
The 60-Day Tourist Visa
The 60-day period is suitable for longer family visits, vacations, or for those who need to look at employment and/or business opportunities. It’s released either as Single-Entry or Multiple-Entry. This is the typical period of stay by medium-term guests, and is essentially a substitute for the older and less flexible types of visitors.
The 90-Day Visit Visa & 5-Year Multiple Entry Option
The 90-day timeframe is well suited for long-term family visits, frequent travellers as well as global investors. The family visit route allows the UAE residents with minimum salary requirements to sponsor immediate family members for a complete 90-day visit. The other option is the self-sponsored 5-Year Multi-Entry Tourist Visa that can be used for multiple entries in a 5-year period. Visits of up to 90 days in the country are granted each visit, and can be extended for another 90 days, for a total of 180 days per calendar year.
UAE Visit Visa Fees Breakdown
The government processing fees are different for visas issued through the ICP system in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, UAQ and Fujairah and through GDRFA in Dubai. The amount of the travel agents’ fee may also impact the overall cost.
- The estimated base fee is between AED 200 and 370 for a 30-Day Single Entry visa.
- The Multiple Entry visa will cost you anywhere between AED 300 and AED 450 for a 30-day visa.
- The costs of the base visa in UAE are usually AED 300 to AED 510 for a 60-day single entry visa.
- Generally the cost of a Multiple Entry visa is around AED 500 to AED 650 for a 60-Day visa.
- Standard government setup fee for a 5 Year Multi-Entry Tourist Visa is between AED 650 – AED 800.
Please note these figures are based on the Government’s base fees and compulsory emergency health insurance premiums. Local VAT and standard handling charges may be added to final prices.
Essential Requirements for Application
For an online application made directly or when processing documents via an approved airline or travel agency, make sure the following documents are complete:
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.
- Must submit one clear, high resolution colour personal photo on a white background.
- Please verify your intent to return by having confirmed return flight tickets or onward traveling bookings.
- Full medical insurance coverage is required for the entire period of stay, in the UAE.
- The applicants applying specifically for 5-Year Tourist Visa should provide the stamped bank statements of the last six months with a minimum balance of USD $4000 or any foreign currency equivalent.
Extension and Overstay Rules
Can You Extend Your Visit Visa?
Yes, the countries of the UAE will typically allow entry on a 30-day visit visa, which can then be extended within UAE for another 30 days without leaving the country. The application for this extension can be done online through the ICP website, GDRFA mobile application and at the registered Amer service centres in Dubai. The in-country extension fees vary from AED 600 to 1100, which is mainly based on the processing fee and status adjustment fees. Ideally, you should begin your visa extension application at least 3-5 business days prior to the expiration of your current visa.
Overstay Fines
The overstay charge system is the same throughout all UAE emirates. Prepaid tourist visas are non-grace periods. If you overstay your visa, it will incur a penalty rate of AED 50 per day from the date of overstay until the visa status is changed, or you leave the country. An overstayer beyond 30 days continuous will also have to secure an official Exit Permit in addition to the exit visa prior to his outward flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the cost of a UAE visit visa?
A1. The standard 30-day single-entry tourist visa generally starts between AED 200 and AED 370, while a 60-day single-entry visa ranges from AED 300 to AED 510, excluding service agency fees.
Q2. How long can I stay in the UAE on a visit visa?
A2. You can remain in the country for the exact number of days granted on your approved entry permit, which is typically 30 or 60 days for standard tourist visas, or up to 90 days per stay under family sponsorships or 5-year multi-entry visas.
Q3. Can I convert my visit visa to a residence visa inside the UAE?
A3. Yes, if you secure employment, establish a registered company, or qualify for long-term residency programs like the Golden Visa, your sponsor can adjust your legal status while you remain inside the UAE by completing the required in-country status change process.
Q4. What happens if my UAE visit visa expires before departure?
A4. Overstaying triggers an immediate daily fine of AED 50 starting the day after expiry. All accumulated penalties must be cleared online or at airport immigration desks prior to departing the country.
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