Thinking of visiting the UAE soon? Whether you’re planning a vacation, moving for work, or attending an event, one of the first things you’ll need is a visa. But unlike many countries, you can’t apply for a UAE visa directly through an embassy or consulate. I know this might sound tricky but don’t worry at all since I’ve got you totally covered.

I’ve gone through the UAE visa process myself, spoken with dozens of travelers and expats, and put together this step-by-step guide to help you navigate the UAE visa system easily.

Step 1: Understand Who Can Sponsor Your UAE Visa

You can’t apply for a UAE visa entirely on your own. You must have a sponsor who can apply on your behalf. Sponsors can be:

  • A host or relative living in the UAE (for family or visitor visas)
  • A licensed travel agency that booked your flight or tour package
  • The hotel you’re staying at (if they offer visa support)
  • UAE-based airlines like:

Kojo Tip: Make sure your sponsor is legit. I once met a traveler whose shady travel agent disappeared after pocketing his visa fee. Always verify credentials.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Visa

There are several types of UAE visas, depending on why you’re visiting. Here are the most common:

  • Tourist Visa (30 or 60 days, single or multiple entry)
  • Visit Visa (for family visits)
  • Transit Visa (48 or 96 hours)
  • Business Visa (for investors or entrepreneurs)
  • Work Visa (sponsored by a UAE employer)
  • Student Visa (for those enrolled in a UAE institution)

Kojo’s Note: If you’re visiting for a short holiday, the 30-day tourist visa is your best bet.

Step 3: Submit the Visa Application (Through Your Sponsor)

Your sponsor (travel agency, hotel, airline, or relative) will submit your visa application to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).

They’ll need:

  • A copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • A passport-sized photo
  • Confirmed travel itinerary or return ticket
  • Hotel booking or UAE address
  • Visa application form

In some cases (especially for visit or family visas), you may also need:

  • Proof of relationship (e.g., birth or marriage certificate)
  • Proof of income or financial support

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees

Visa costs vary depending on the type and length:

  • Tourist Visa (30-day single entry): ~AED 350
  • Tourist Visa (60-day multiple entry): ~AED 650
  • Transit Visa (48-96 hours): ~AED 50-100
  • Visit Visas: Fees depend on the length and sponsor

Some agencies charge a service fee, so confirm the total cost in advance.

Step 5: Wait for Approval (and Track It!)

Visa processing time is usually between 2–5 working days, but express services are available for urgent applications.

You can track the status of your visa online using:

Kojo Reminder: Keep a digital and printed copy of your visa. You’ll need to present it when boarding your flight and at UAE immigration.

Step 6: Entering the UAE

Once approved, your visa will be emailed to you (usually as a PDF). When entering the UAE:

  • Show your visa printout at immigration
  • Answer questions honestly about your stay
  • Make sure you meet health and travel insurance requirements (especially post-COVID)

Bonus: Countries That Don’t Need a Pre-Approved Visa

If you’re from one of the following countries, you may qualify for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry (as of 2025):

  • USA
  • UK
  • EU countries
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • Singapore
  • Japan
  • South Korea

Check the latest list on the UAE Immigration website or ask your airline.

 

Can You Really Get Your Dubai or UAE Visa Through a UAE-Based Airline

Yes. If you’re flying with a UAE-based airline, you may be able to apply for a tourist visa directly through the airline …and it’s often one of the easiest and most secure options, especially if you’re visiting for a short trip.

Which Airlines Offer Visa Services?

What You’ll Need to Apply Through the Airline:

  • A confirmed flight booking with the airline

  • A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

  • Passport-size photograph

  • Hotel booking or local UAE address

  • Completed visa application form (each airline will guide you)

Some airlines will also ask for:

  • A copy of your return ticket

  • Travel insurance (especially post-COVID)

  • Proof of financial means (bank statement or credit card)

Common Visa Types Offered by Airlines:

  • Tourist Visa (30-day single entry)

  • Tourist Visa (60-day or multiple-entry options)

  • Transit Visa (48–96 hours) for short layovers in the UAE

Kojo Tip: These airline-sponsored visas are perfect for first-time visitors or short vacations. They usually have a higher chance of approval since the airline manages it directly with UAE immigration.

How Long Does It Take?

  • Standard processing: 3–5 working days

  • Express service: Often available at an extra fee (as fast as 24–48 hours)

How Much Does It Cost?

  • Tourist Visa (30 days): AED 300–400

  • Tourist Visa (60 days): AED 600–800

  • Transit Visa: AED 50–100

Exact prices vary based on airline, nationality, and visa type.

Kojo’s Reminder:

Make sure you submit your visa application at least 7 days before your travel date… and double-check that your flight itinerary is confirmed and matches your visa application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Applying for a UAE Visa

1. Can I apply for a UAE visa by myself?

No, you cannot apply directly through an embassy or consulate. You need a sponsor based in the UAE, such as:

  • A resident (family or friend)

  • A licensed travel agency

  • A hotel offering visa support

  • An airline like Emirates or Etihad

2. What is the fastest way to get a UAE visa?

The fastest way is usually through a major airline (like Emirates or Etihad) or a reputable tour operator offering express services. Processing can be done in 24–48 hours for urgent cases, though it may cost extra.

3. How long does a UAE visa take to be approved?

On average, 2 to 5 working days. If you need it urgently, some agencies offer express processing within 1–2 days.

4. What’s the difference between a tourist visa and a visit visa?

  • A Tourist Visa is often for leisure, valid for 30 or 60 days, and is sponsored by a travel agency or airline.

  • A Visit Visa is typically for family visits and is sponsored by a UAE resident.

5. Do I need a return ticket to apply for a UAE visa?

Yes. A confirmed return ticket is usually required to process your visa application. Immigration wants proof that you plan to leave before your visa expires.

6. How much does a UAE visa cost in 2025?

Costs vary based on type:

  • 30-day single-entry tourist visa: ~AED 350

  • 60-day multiple-entry tourist visa: ~AED 650

  • Transit visa (48/96 hours): AED 50–100

  • Visit visas (family/friend): Depends on sponsor and emirate

Always confirm the total, including service fees.

7. Can I apply for a UAE visa if I’ve been denied before?

Yes, but it depends on why you were denied. Make sure to:

  • Fix the issue (e.g., documentation, overstays)

  • Reapply through a reliable sponsor

  • Avoid fake or blacklisted agents

8. What’s the age limit for applying for a UAE visa?

Most visas are available for travelers of all ages. However, solo travelers under 18 or over 60 may require additional documentation or insurance.

9. What documents do I need for a UAE visa?

Typically:

  • Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)

  • Passport-sized photo

  • Travel itinerary or hotel booking

  • Return flight ticket

  • Sponsor’s documents (if applying for visit visa)

10. Can I extend my UAE visa while inside the country?

Yes, most tourist visas can be extended once or twice, usually for 30 more days, without exiting the UAE. Fees apply (around AED 600+).

11. What happens if I overstay my visa in the UAE?

You’ll be fined AED 50–100 per day of overstay. You may also face travel bans or difficulty reapplying in the future.

Kojo’s Advice: Set a reminder to leave or extend before the visa expires!

12. Can I work in the UAE with a tourist or visit visa?

No, working on a tourist or visit visa is illegal and can lead to fines, deportation, or bans. You must get a work visa sponsored by an employer to legally work.

13. Do all nationalities need a visa to visit the UAE?

No. Citizens from countries like the US, UK, EU, Australia, Japan, and Singapore can get a visa on arrival or enjoy visa-free access (as of 2025). Always check the latest list on the official ICA or GDRFA website.

14. Can I use a hotel or travel agency I didn’t book through as a visa sponsor?

Generally no. Most hotels or agencies will only sponsor your visa if you book your stay or ticket through them. This ensures they’re liable for your visit.

Final Word from Kojo

Applying for a UAE visa isn’t as complicated as it sounds – as long as you know who can sponsor you and what type of visa you need. Use a trusted agency or airline, and keep your documents ready.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the rest of the UAE are waiting for you – so plan smart, apply early, and travel confidently!