UAE Travel & Visa Policies
Educational overview of tourist entry requirements, transit rules, and document checklists based on official UAE sources.
Tourist Entry Policies
A tourist visa is required for visitors who are not eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival. The UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICA/ICP) may grant tourist visit visas through authorised tourism establishments and channels.
- ✓ 30-day and 60-day single-entry tourist visas are available for eligible applicants.
- ✓ 30-day and 60-day multiple-entry tourist visas allow repeated entries within the validity period.
- ✓ A five-year multiple-entry tourist visa is available for eligible applicants who meet financial and insurance requirements.
- ✓ Visit/tourism permits may be extended by the issuing authority, provided total stay does not exceed 120 days in exceptional cases.
- ✓ Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival — always verify your specific nationality before travel.
Transit Visa Rules
Under Article 29 of the UAE Entry and Residence Executive Regulation, transit visas are granted to foreigners continuing their journey to another country.
- ✓ 48-hour transit visa: allows a short stay for passengers with a valid onward ticket to a third destination.
- ✓ 96-hour transit visa: allows up to four days for eligible transit passengers.
- ✓ Requirements include a passport valid for entry to the UAE and the destination country, plus a confirmed onward travel ticket.
- ✓ Transit visas are generally non-extendable. Verify conditions with your airline or authorised visa channel.
- ✓ Seamen and cabin crew may be eligible for specialised entry permits under separate provisions.
Document Checklist
Standard requirements for tourist visa applications as published by UAE government and immigration authorities:
- 1 Passport valid for at least six months from date of entry.
- 2 Recent passport-size photograph meeting UAE specifications.
- 3 Completed visa application form via your chosen authorised channel.
- 4 Confirmed return or onward travel ticket matching your intended stay dates.
- 5 Confirmed hotel reservation for the duration of stay (must align with ticket dates when applying through a hotel).
- 6 For five-year multiple-entry visa: proof of bank balance of USD 4,000 (or equivalent) maintained for six months, plus valid UAE health insurance for 180 days.