UAE Tourist Visa: Application Process, Fees, and Nationality Requirements (2025 Guide)

Radu Lupescu
May 10
3 min read

Updated: Jun 7

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the world’s top travel destinations—welcoming millions of visitors each year to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates. Whether you’re planning a short holiday, scouting job opportunities, or visiting family and friends, understanding the tourist visa process is essential.

Here’s everything you need to know about applying for a UAE tourist visa, including fees, documents, and who needs one.

Who Needs a UAE Tourist Visa?

The UAE has three broad categories of visitors based on nationality:

1. Visa-Free Entry (No Visa Required)

Citizens of GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia) can enter the UAE without a visa.

2. Visa on Arrival

Passport holders from over 70 countries—including the USA, UK, EU states, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Singapore—can get a visa on arrival at UAE airports. Depending on nationality, the visa is either:

30 days, renewable once for another 30 days, or
90 days, within a 180-day period (non-renewable)

See all countries

Andorra
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bahamas
Barbados
Belgium
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Honduras
Hong Kong (SAR of China)
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Islands
Italy
Japan
Kazakhstan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Maldives
Malta
Mexico
Monaco
Montenegro
Nauru
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
People’s Republic of China
Poland
Republic of Mauritius
Republic of El Salvador
Portugal
Romania
Russian
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
San Marino
Seychelles
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
The Vatican
Ukraine
United Kingdom
United States of America
Uruguay

3. Pre-Arranged Tourist Visa Required

All other nationalities must apply for a tourist visa in advance before entering the UAE. These visas are typically sponsored by airlines, hotels, or UAE-based travel agencies.

Types of UAE Tourist Visas (For Pre-Application)

1. 30-Day Tourist Visa

Validity: 30 days from entry
Single entry
Cost: AED 330–370 (~$90–$100)

2. 60-Day Tourist Visa

Validity: 60 days from entry
Single or multiple entry
Cost: AED 550–650 (~$150–$180)

3. 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

Ideal for frequent travelers, this long-term visa allows multiple stays, each up to 90 days, extendable to 180 days per year.

Requirements: Proof of income (~$4,000/month or equivalent), return ticket, bank statements
Cost: AED 650–800 (~$180–$220)

Note: Fees may vary slightly by issuing authority or sponsor (e.g., Emirates Airlines vs. travel agency).

Tourist Visa Application Process (Pre-Arranged Visa)

If you’re not eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival, follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Choose a Sponsor

You’ll need to apply through one of the following:

UAE-based airline (Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia, FlyDubai)
Licensed travel agency or hotel
UAE resident (in some cases)

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Most sponsors will ask for:

Passport valid for 6 months minimum
Passport-sized photograph (white background)
Completed visa application form
Confirmed flight ticket (may be required)
Proof of accommodation
Sometimes: bank statement or ID copy

Step 3: Submit and Pay Fees

Applications are submitted online via:

Airline visa portals
Agency websites
Amer or ICP portals (for UAE nationals sponsoring friends/family)

Payment is made upfront and typically includes service and processing fees.

Step 4: Receive e-Visa

Processing time: 2–5 working days

Your visa will be emailed as a PDF. Print it or keep a digital copy when traveling.

Tourist Visa Fee Breakdown (2025 Estimate)

Visa Type	Duration	Cost (AED)	Approx. USD
Tourist Visa – 30 Days	Single Entry	330–370	$90–$100
Tourist Visa – 60 Days	Single Entry	550–650	$150–$180
5-Year Multi-Entry Visa	Multi Entry	650–800	$180–$220
Visa Extension (per time)	30 Days	600–800	$160–$220