Q-16. How can I check Dubai visa status?

Dubai visa status can be checked online via: GDRFA Dubai portal (for Dubai-issued visas), or ICP portal (for visas issued outside Dubai or federal visas). You’ll need your passport number and visa application or file number to view the current status.

Q-17. How to apply for Dubai visa?

A Dubai visit visa can be applied through: UAE-based airlines (Emirates, Etihad, Flydubai) Licensed travel agencies or tour operators Hotels or local sponsors in the UAE Online visa platforms approved by UAE authorities Applicants must submit passport copies, photographs, travel details, and supporting documents such as hotel bookings and proof of funds.

Visa Services

New Visit Visa Rules in UAE: Your Key to Exploring the Emirates

Q: Q-1. What is the new visit visa extension rule in the UAE?

The new rule allows visitors to extend their stay for an additional 30 days per extension, with a maximum of two extensions, without leaving the country. This means a visitor can stay up to 90 days in total on a standard visit visa. Extensions can be applied online through the official UAE immigration portal or via authorized typing centers. Fees apply for each extension, and it’s important to apply before your current visa expires to avoid fines.

Q: Q-2. Can I get a visa on arrival in the UAE if I am an Indian national?

Yes, Indian nationals can obtain a single-entry 14-day visa on arrival. Additionally, travellers holding a valid US visa or residence permit from the UK or EU countries are also eligible. The visa is extendable under certain conditions, and it provides quick access for business or leisure travellers. It is important to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Q: Q-3. What is the fine for overstaying a visa?

The fine for overstaying in the UAE is AED 200 for the first day and AED 100 for each subsequent day. There is no grace period under the new rules. Overstaying can also affect future visa approvals, and repeated violations may lead to blacklisting. It’s highly recommended to monitor your visa expiry and apply for extensions in advance.

Q: Q-4. How much bank balance is required for a visit visa?

For a two-month visit visa, you may need to show a minimum bank balance of AED 5,000. This requirement can vary depending on visa type and sponsor. Visitors may need to provide bank statements for the last 3–6 months to prove financial stability. Some visas, like the Remote Work Visa, may require higher income or additional proof of funds.

Q: Q-5. Is travel insurance mandatory for a UAE visit visa?

Yes, all visitors are required to have valid travel insurance under the new rules. The insurance must cover medical expenses and emergencies for the duration of your stay. Many airlines and visa providers offer bundled insurance options during the visa application process. Having insurance ensures access to healthcare without incurring high costs during your visit.

Q: Q-6. Can I apply for a job on a tourist visa?

No, the tourist visa does not allow employment. However, the UAE has introduced a Job Seeker Visa, which permits professionals to stay in the country for up to 120 days to look for employment. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria, such as having a degree from a recognized university or professional experience. The visa cannot be converted into a work visa directly without securing a job offer.

Q: Q-7. How long does it take to get a visa?

Processing time varies depending on the visa type and the issuing authority. Standard visit visas typically take 2–4 working days, while Job Seeker or Remote Work Visas may take 5–7 days due to additional document verification. Applying through official portals ensures faster approval and reduces the risk of delays.

Q: Q-8. Can a resident sponsor their parents for a visit visa?

Yes, UAE residents can sponsor their parents, provided they meet specific salary requirements and, in some cases, submit a security deposit. The sponsor must have valid residency, meet minimum income thresholds, and provide proper accommodation for their parents. This sponsorship allows parents to stay for up to 90 days, which can often be extended under the new rules.

Q: Q-9. What if my passport is about to expire?

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of travel. UAE immigration strictly enforces this rule, and passports with shorter validity may lead to visa rejection or denial at entry. It’s advisable to renew your passport well in advance to avoid delays in visa processing.

Q: Q-10. Is it possible to extend a visa without leaving the country?

Yes, the new rules allow you to extend your visit visa from within the UAE. Extensions can be applied online or via authorized typing centers before the visa expires. Each extension typically adds 30 days, with a maximum of two extensions allowed for standard visit visas. Fees apply for each extension.

13 min read

Aug 26, 2025

Feb 11, 2026

New Visit Visa Rules in UAE: Your Key to Exploring the Emirates

Table of Contents

The UAE is a top destination for travellers seeking a blend of modern luxury, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. From Dubai’s towering skyscrapers like Burj Khalifa and world-class shopping to Abu Dhabi’s heritage sites and desert adventures, the country offers something for every type of traveller. In order to enjoy these views to the fullest, every tourist must know about the new visit visa rules in UAE 2026.

The UAE has introduced updated visit visa prices and rules, largely effective from 2025-26, aimed at streamlining entry while strengthening compliance checks. Under the new framework, applicants, especially Indian nationals, must submit:

Even bigger changes are ahead: the Unified GCC Tourist Visa, scheduled for late 2025 or early 2026, will enable travel across six Gulf countries on a single permit. Dubai alone welcomed 5.31 million overnight visitors in Q1 2025, a 3% rise from last year, generating nearly Rs. 11,800 crore (USD 1.42 billion) in tourism receipts. For Indian businesses and travellers alike, the UAE’s evolving travel policies signal even stronger cross-border ties.

What Has Changed in the UAE’s Visa on Arrival Policy?

The UAE has recently updated its Visa on Arrival (VoA) rules, making travel easier for many Indian passport holders. With the help of visa services, you can now apply for your VoA quickly and securely, ensuring a smooth entry process. Here are the key changes you should know:

1. No Pre-Approval Needed

Travellers who meet the criteria can skip pre-arranged visa applications and receive their visa directly upon arrival, making the process seamless and quick.

2. Passport Validity & Documentation

Eligible travellers must carry a passport with a minimum six-month validity, along with proof of their qualifying foreign visa or residence permit, confirmed return tickets, and accommodation details. Authorities may also request proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay.

3. Wide Airport Accessibility

The VoA facility is available at all main UAE entry points, airports like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, as well as designated land and sea borders, ensuring broad coverage.

4. Facilitated Entry, Strengthened Ties

This update promotes smoother tourism and business travel for Indians and supports the UAE’s goal of bolstering economic and cultural connections. Indian travellers holding a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, European Union (Schengen), Australia, or Canada can avail a Visa on Arrival without prior application. This is accepted provided the visa or permit is valid for at least six months.

UAE Visa Fees (Updated 2026 Pricing)

The UAE offers various Visa-on-Arrival options with different durations and fees to suit travellers’ needs. It’s crucial to know about UAE visit visa price and other types to apply for the right option.

Visa Type	Approx. Fee (AED)	Validity / Stay	Notes
Visa-on-Arrival (VoA)	~AED 100–250	14–30 days	For Indians with valid US/UK/EU/Aus/Canada/Japan/NZ/Singapore/S Korea visa or residence permit; paid at arrival counter.
48-Hour Transit Visa	~AED 37	2 days	Government fee; useful for short stopovers.
96-Hour Transit Visa	~AED 180–300	4 days	Government fee; generally processed online.
30-Day Single Entry Visit Visa	~AED 200–370	30 days	Base government fee range; may be higher via agencies.
60-Day Single Entry Visit Visa	~AED 300–650	60 days	Government base fee varies with emirate/provider.
30-Day Multiple Entry Visa	~AED 500–650	30 days	Usually higher due to multiple entry benefit.
90-Day Single Entry Visit Visa	~AED 950	90 days	Longer-stay option; varies with provider.
90-Day Multiple Entry Visa	~AED 1,350–1,500	90 days	Multi-entry for frequent travellers.
5-Year Multi-Entry Visa	~AED 1,500+	5 years	Long-term visit visa option (stay limits per visit apply).
Visit Visa Extension (30 days)	~AED 600–900	+30 days	For extending existing visit visas.

UAE Visit Visa New Rules for Indians in 2026

The UAE has eased its Visa-on-Arrival rules, offering Indian travelers more flexibility and faster entry. Here are the latest updates for 2026:

1. Expanded Eligibility

More Indian travellers now qualify for Visa-on-Arrival.

Until 2024, only Indian passport holders with valid visas/residency from the US, UK, or Schengen countries were eligible. The Visa on Arrival is usually valid for 14 day single entry and can be extended up to 30 days depending on the nationality.
Since February 2025, the list has been expanded to include visas/residency from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea.
The foreign visa/residency permit must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry into the UAE.

2. Simplified Entry Process

The application process has been made faster and paperless.

No need for pre-approval or applying in advance through agents or websites.
Travellers can walk up to immigration counters and get their visa stamped instantly.
This is especially helpful for last-minute trips or business travellers with urgent schedules.

3. Passport & Documentation Rules

Certain conditions must be met to get the visa approved.

Passports must have at least 6 months’ validity from the date of arrival.
A valid return ticket or onward booking is required at check-in.
An original, valid visa/residence card from the listed countries must be shown.
Some airlines may check eligibility before boarding, so documents should be handy.

4. Where You Can Get It

The Visa-on-Arrival is available across the UAE’s main entry points.

Issued at all major international airports, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Available at land border crossings with Oman and Saudi Arabia.
Also accessible at seaports for cruise passengers entering the UAE.
Immigration counters are equipped with dedicated VoA desks to process arrivals quickly.

5. Why It Matters for Indians

The rule change brings big benefits for Indian tourists and professionals.

Indians are the largest group of international visitors to Dubai, making this policy highly impactful.
Easier access encourages more short trips for leisure and shopping, especially from cities with frequent flights.
Business travellers benefit from greater flexibility, as they no longer need weeks of planning.
The move strengthens India–UAE ties, supporting both tourism and economic exchanges.

6. Expanded Eligibility for Indian Nationals

As of February 13, 2025, Indian passport holders with valid visas, residence permits, or green cards from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea can now obtain a visa on arrival (VoA) in the UAE. This builds upon the existing eligibility for holders of documents from the US, UK, and Schengen countries.

Finding the Right Visa for You to Visit the UAE

The new visit visa rules in the UAE offer multiple options tailored to different purposes, making it easier to choose the right visa for your stay.

Visa Type	Description	Eligibility	Benefits	Additional Notes
Job Seeker Visa	Stay up to 120 days to find a job without a sponsor; part of the UAE’s plan to attract global talent.	Highly-skilled professionals or recent graduates from top 500 universities.	Legal stay for job hunting, attending interviews, accessing the UAE job market, and professional networks.	Focused on skilled talent; no work allowed until employment is secured.
Remote Work Visa	One-year visa for digital nomads to live in the UAE while working for a company outside the country.	Valid passport and minimum monthly income of USD 3,500.	Sponsor family, get an Emirates ID, access banking, telecom, and local services.	Ideal for freelancers or remote employees; allows family relocation.
Student Visa	Enables international students to attend UAE universities or schools.	Enrollment in a recognized educational institution.	Part-time work permits, a grace period post-graduation to search for a job.	Visas are usually sponsored by the school/university; short-term (<1 year) and long-term programs are available.

How Can You Apply Online for a UAE Visa?

The UAE has simplified the visa application process, allowing travellers to complete most steps quickly and securely online

Step 1: Choose Your Visa Type

The first and most important step is to select the visa that matches the purpose of your trip. The new rules in uae visit visa offer several options, and picking the right one is crucial for a successful application.

For Tourism: If your visit is for leisure, the standard tourist visa is the right choice.
For Work: If you are seeking employment, the Job Seeker Visa is the correct category.
For Study: The Student Visa is specifically for those enrolled in an educational program.

Step 2: Find the Right Sponsor or Application Channel

Once you have chosen your visa, you need to find a sponsor to apply on your behalf. This is a critical part of the process and a key change under the new rules in uae visit visa.

Official Portals: For many visa types, you can apply directly through the official government portals like the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).
Airlines and Hotels: For a standard tourist visa, major airlines (like Emirates and Etihad) and many hotels can act as your sponsor and handle the application for you.
Authorized Travel Agencies: You can also use a licensed travel agency in the UAE or your home country.

Step 3: Prepare and Digitize Your Documents

After you have a sponsor, you must gather all the necessary documents and ensure they are in a digital format. The new rules in uae visit visa require all documents to be submitted online.

Passport Scan: A high-resolution, colored scan of your passport’s bio-data page is mandatory. Ensure it is valid for at least six months from your travel date.
Passport-Sized Photo: A recent, clear passport-sized photo with a white background that meets the official specifications.
Supporting Documents: This includes a confirmed return flight ticket, hotel booking or proof of accommodation, and, for certain visas, proof of funds or an employment letter.

Step 4: Fill Out and Submit the Online Application

This is where you will input your information into the online system. This step is a key part of the simplified process under the new visit visa rules in uae.

Access the Form: Go to the chosen government portal, airline, or travel agency website. You will be asked to create an account or log in.
Enter Your Details: Carefully fill in all required personal and travel information. Double-check that all details match your passport exactly to avoid any chance of rejection.

Step 5: Pay the Fees

The final step is to make the payment and wait for your visa to be processed. This concludes your part of the application under the new rules in uae visit visa.

Secure Payment: After filling out the form, you will be directed to a secure payment gateway to pay the visa fees and any service charges.
Receive Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email with an application reference number. You can use this number on the portal to track the status of your application. Once approved, your e-visa will be sent to you.

How to check a Visit Visa Application Status in UAE?

You can check your UAE visit visa application status online through official government portals. Depending on where your visa was issued, use the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or the GDRFA Dubai website by entering your application number, passport number, or Emirates ID (if applicable).

Also Read: How to apply for a Golden Visa for Students in the UAE?

What Are the Important Documents Travellers Need for UAE Visit Visa?

Carrying the right documents ensures a smooth travel experience and avoids unnecessary delays at immigration and other checkpoints.

Document	Purpose / Details	Additional Notes
Passport	Primary travel document required for international travel.	Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry; carry a photocopy as backup.
Visa	Entry permit for the destination country.	Check type (Tourist, Business, Student, etc.), validity, and conditions; some visas can be an e-visa or a Visa-on-Arrival.
Travel Tickets	Proof of onward/return journey.	Airlines often check tickets during check-in; keep both digital and printed copies.
Hotel/Accommodation Confirmation	Proof of stay for immigration and travel purposes.	Booking receipts or invitation letters are accepted; sometimes mandatory for the Visa-on-Arrival.
Travel Insurance	Coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage.	Highly recommended and sometimes mandatory; keep digital and printed copies.
Financial Proof	Evidence of funds for the trip.	Bank statements, credit card limits, or traveller’s cheques; some countries require proof for a Visa-on-Arrival.
ID Proof (Aadhar, Driver’s License, etc. for Indians)	Secondary identification.	Useful in case of a lost passport or local verification.
Vaccination / Health Certificates	Proof of vaccinations or health requirements.	Especially relevant for COVID-19, Yellow Fever, or other country-specific health mandates.
Emergency Contacts	Contact details for family or local contacts.	Include the embassy or consulate numbers of India in the destination country.

Note: Always double-check requirements for your specific destination before travel, as rules can change frequently. Contact a professional who can help avoid delays, errors, or last-minute issues at immigration.

How to Renew Visit Visa in UAE: Validity and Renewals

Understanding the validity period and renewal process of your visa is essential to ensure an uninterrupted stay and compliance with local laws.

Visa Type	Validity Period	Renewal / Extension Options	Additional Notes
Tourist Visa (Standard / Single Entry)	14–90 days depending on type	Can often be extended once or twice for an additional fee	Single-entry; overstay fines apply; exit and re-entry require a new visa.
Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)	30–90 days per entry	Extension possible based on regulations	Allows re-entry within validity; ideal for frequent travellers or short business trips.
Job Seeker Visa	Up to 120 days	Not extendable; must exit or convert to an employment visa if hired	Permits multiple interviews and a legal job search within its validity.
Remote Work Visa	1 year	Renewable based on employment verification	Family sponsorship possible; maintain proof of foreign employment.
Student Visa	Duration of course (short-term or full degree)	Can be extended if continuing studies; a grace period after graduation for job search	Typically sponsored by the educational institution, part-time work may be allowed.
Business/Investor Visa	1–3 years, depending on investment	Renewable upon maintaining business operations or investment	Requires proof of active business or investment in the UAE.
Visa-on-Arrival	30–90 days depending on nationality	Some nationalities are eligible for a single extension	Must meet entry requirements; overstay penalties apply.

Understanding Visa Fines and Overstaying

Being aware of fines and penalties for overstaying your visa helps you avoid legal issues and extra costs during your UAE visit.

Visa Type	Overstay Fine / Penalty	Additional Notes
Tourist Visa	AED 100 per day plus AED 200 for an out pass	Overstaying less than 30 days: Pay fines at Dubai airports or GDRFA HQ. Overstaying more than 30 days: Pay fines only at the GDRFA HQ.
Job Seeker Visa	AED 100 per day	Must exit or convert to an employment visa; overstaying can affect future visa applications.
Remote Work Visa	AED 100–200 per day	Keep proof of ongoing employment and visa validity; family sponsorship can be impacted.
Student Visa	AED 100 per day	Overstay fines apply after the course end or grace period; renewing before expiry avoids penalties.
Business/Investor Visa	AED 100–200 per day	Maintain active business documentation; overstaying can affect visa renewal.
Visa-on-Arrival	AED 100–200 per day	Overstay fines accumulate daily; they may impact future entry and visa eligibility.

Special Rules for Families

The new visit visa rules in uae also make it easier for families to travel together. Expatriates with a valid residence visa can sponsor their family members, including their spouse and children.

Key Pointers:

You must meet a minimum monthly salary requirement to sponsor your family.
Sponsors have 60 days to apply for a family member’s visa after they arrive in the UAE.
The visa validity for family members is tied to the sponsor’s visa.
All sponsored family members must have valid health insurance in the UAE.
Dependent family members can study and, in some cases, work if proper permits are obtained.
Multiple-entry visas allow family members to travel in and out of the UAE within the visa’s validity.

Final Thoughts

Understanding UAE visit visas in 2026 is now simple, with clear rules for tourists, students, professionals, and families. Knowing the different visa types, validity periods, renewal options, and fines for overstaying helps travellers plan their trips efficiently and avoid unnecessary complications.

Ensuring all documents are in order, understanding eligibility criteria, and following official procedures can make the visa process smooth and efficient. Seeking guidance from visa professionals or official authorities can further simplify the process, helping travellers fully enjoy their stay in the UAE without delays or issues.

Frequently Asked Questions