Aan Tourism
Blog
Guide to UAE Visa Requirements for Travelers and Residents
Planning a trip to the UAE? Whether you're traveling for tourism, business, or residency, knowing the UAE visa requirements is crucial. From various visa types to the UAE visa application process, this guide has got you covered before you travel.
Understanding UAE Visas
The UAE visa categories differ depending on the reason for travel. A UAE tourist visa is appropriate for short-term travelers and can be obtained for 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days. For those visiting relatives or friends, a UAE visit visa is obtainable and must be sponsored by a UAE resident.
For businesspeople, there is a UAE business visa to enable investors and entrepreneurs to scout for opportunities, while a UAE employment visa is required for those looking for employment in the country.
There are long-term residency opportunities such as the UAE Golden Visa, which provides 5 to 10 years of stay for investors, professionals, and students. A UAE residence visa, on the other hand, is issued for employment, investment, or family sponsorship, which must be based on a valid Emirates ID.

How to Apply for a UAE Visa
It is easy to apply for a UAE visa online. Select the right type of visa, apply through an airline, hotel, travel agency, or UAE immigration website, and upload required UAE visa documents such as a passport copy, photos, and accommodation proof. The processing time for a UAE visa is different—tourist visas usually take 3 to 5 days, and express UAE visas can be processed within 24 hours.
Visa charges vary with the type and duration. The cost of a 30-day UAE visa is approximately AED 350, and that of a 90-day UAE visa is up to AED 1,000. A UAE visa extension is available if required without leaving the country, with UAE visa extension costs from AED 600 per renewal.
UAE Visa on Arrival and Rejection Reasons
Some nationalities are eligible for a UAE visa on arrival, such as visitors from the USA, UK, Canada, and most European Union nations. Some get a 30-day visa on arrival, while others are eligible for 90 day UAE visa on arrival.
Nonetheless, the applications can be rejected based on missing documents, UAE visa overstay, passport validity of less than six months, or security reasons. Ensuring all the requirements are satisfied before applying reduces the chances of rejection.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the UAE visa requirement is important to have a seamless travel experience. From applying for a Dubai tourist visa, UAE residence visa, or Golden Visa UAE, it is important to do it the right way to gain easy entry. Begin your visa application now and prepare to discover the UAE!
FAQ's
The majority of travelers require a visa to enter the UAE, except visa-exempt nationals or those who are eligible for a visa on arrival.
You can apply via airlines, hotels, travel agencies, or the UAE immigration website, depending on the type of visa.
Standard visa categories are tourist visas, visit visas, transit visas, and work or family sponsorship residency visas.
Processing time depends on the type of visa, but most tourist visas take 3 to 5 business days.
Yes, most tourist visas can be extended for 30 days twice without exiting the country, pending approval.