The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains one of the most visited destinations in the world, attracting millions of travelers every year. From Dubai’s glittering skyline to Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, tourists from across the globe continue to visit for leisure, business, and family gatherings. To make your visit smooth, here’s the complete UAE Tourist Visa Guide 2025, including eligibility, visa types, fees, and step-by-step process.

Understanding the UAE Tourist Visa

A UAE tourist visa is a short-term entry permit that allows foreign nationals to visit the country for tourism or leisure. It is available in both single-entry and multiple-entry formats, depending on your travel plans.

Tourist visas are issued by UAE immigration authorities, airline partners like Emirates, Etihad, Fly Dubai, or approved travel agencies.

Types of UAE Tourist Visas

1. Short-Term Tourist Visa (30 Days)

Valid for 30 days from the date of entry.
Available as single-entry or multiple-entry.
Can be extended for another 30 days.

2. Long-Term Tourist Visa (60 Days)

Valid for 60 days from the date of entry.
Suitable for long vacations or visiting family and friends.
Extension available for another 30 days.

3. 90-Day Visit Visa

Valid for 90 days and ideal for extended stays.
Can be issued for single or multiple entries.
Used mainly by family visitors or long-term tourists.

4. 5-Year Multiple Entry Visa

Allows tourists to enter and exit the UAE multiple times over five years.
Stay up to 90 days per visit, extendable to 180 days per year.
Ideal for business travelers and frequent visitors.

UAE Tourist Visa Eligibility

The UAE tourist visa is available to most nationalities, except those eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry. Citizens of countries like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Russia, and many African nations usually need to apply before arrival.

Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

Visa-free: GCC nationals (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait).
Visa-on-arrival (30 days): UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, and many European countries.
Visa-on-arrival (90 days): France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, and other Schengen members.

UAE Tourist Visa Requirements

To apply for a tourist visa, you need the following documents:

Passport: Valid for at least 6 months.
Passport-size photo: Recent, white background.
Return flight ticket: Confirmed booking.
Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation or address of host.
Bank statement: Last 3 to 6 months to show sufficient funds.
Travel insurance: Mandatory since 2023 for all tourist visa holders.

If applying through a sponsor (family or friend residing in UAE):

Sponsor’s Emirates ID and residence visa copy.
Invitation letter stating relationship and purpose of visit.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for UAE Tourist Visa

Step 1: Choose the Mode of Application

You can apply for a UAE tourist visa through:

UAE-based airlines: Emirates, Etihad, Fly Dubai, Air Arabia.
Authorized travel agencies or hotels in the UAE.
GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) online portal.
ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security) website.

Step 2: Submit Documents

Upload all required documents including passport, photo, travel details, and proof of stay.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

Visa fees depend on duration and type. Payment can be made online through credit/debit cards.

Step 4: Receive E-Visa

Once approved, the e-Visa is sent to your registered email address. Print a copy for immigration clearance.

Step 5: Enter the UAE

Present your passport and visa at the UAE airport immigration counter. Ensure you carry your return ticket and hotel details for verification.

UAE Tourist Visa Fees 2025

Visa Type	Duration	Fee (Approx.)
30-Day Single Entry	30 days	AED 350 – 450
30-Day Multiple Entry	30 days	AED 800 – 950
60-Day Single Entry	60 days	AED 500 – 600
90-Day Single Entry	90 days	AED 800 – 950
90-Day Multiple Entry	90 days	AED 1,200 – 1,500
5-Year Multiple Entry	Up to 90 days per visit	AED 1,600 – 1,800

Visa fees vary slightly depending on the airline, travel agency, or nationality.

UAE Tourist Visa Extension

Tourist visas can be extended twice for 30 days each, without leaving the country.

Extension Fee: AED 600 per renewal.
Apply through: GDRFA, ICP, or your visa sponsor.

Overstaying beyond the visa expiry date results in fines:

AED 50 per day for the first day.
AED 100 per day for consecutive days.

Processing Time

Standard processing: 2 to 4 working days.
Express processing: 24 to 48 hours (extra fee applies).

Travel Insurance for UAE Tourist Visa

Since 2023, all visitors must hold valid travel insurance that covers:

Emergency medical treatment.
COVID-19 or contagious illness coverage.
Repatriation costs.

Most airlines and agencies offer insurance add-ons during the visa application.

Top Tips for Tourists Visiting the UAE

Always check visa validity before travel.
Keep a digital and printed copy of your visa.
Respect UAE laws and dress codes in public.
Avoid overstaying to prevent fines and future visa issues.
For multiple entries, maintain at least 90 days gap between visits under certain visa types.

Contact Details for Visa Assistance

For support or updates, you can contact:

GDRFA Dubai: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae
ICP Portal: https://icp.gov.ae
Emirates Visa Services: https://www.emirates.com

The UAE tourist visa process in 2025 remains fast, efficient, and fully digital. Whether you’re visiting Dubai’s beaches, Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque, or Sharjah’s heritage sites, obtaining your visa online ensures a smooth start to your journey. The combination of advanced services, flexible visa options, and clear guidelines makes the UAE one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in the world.