Are you planning a trip to Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Read the visa requirements for the United Arab Emirates: Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The requirements change frequently, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. Be aware to check the latest requirements before flying. Some nationalities need to apply for visa and others qualify for a visa on arrival for 30 days or 90 days.

UAE Visa on arrival

The nationalities below don’t need a visa in advance. They receive a visa-on-arrival stamp at the international airports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. There are two durations for a visa on arrival: 30 days and 90 days.

30-day visa on arrival

The 30-day visa is free of charge and available for the nationalities you find below:

90-day on arrival

Nationalities below receive a 90-day visa stamp on arrival. The 90-day visa on arrival is a multiple entry visa and valid for 6 months from the date of issue and for a stay of 90 days in total. Citizens from European countries below are allowed to apply for a pre-arranged visa when their 90-day visa is used.

180-day visa

Mexican nationals receive a multiple entry 180-day visa on arrival. The visa is valid for 6 months from the date of issue and for a stay of 180 days in total.

Tourist short term visa

There are different type of visas. The 48-hour and 96-hour visa are non-extendable and cost US$ 10 and US$ 30. There are two options for a short term tourist visa: single and multiple entry. The single entry is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival and cost US$ 90 and is extendable. The multiple entry is valid for 30 days from the first entry date and cost US$ 175 and is extendable for US$230.

Tourist long term visa

The single entry long term visa is valid for 90  days from the date of arrival, cost US$ 190 and is extendable. The multiple entry long term visa is valid for 90 days from the first entry date and is US$460.

What do you need to apply for a visa?

You need a coloured passport photo and a coloured copy of your passport. The passport needs to be valid for at least six months on the date you arrive. You also need to fill out an application form. Visit the United Arab Emirates Government portal to find the latest visa related information.

Get your visa hassle-free via iVisa

Do you have issues with your credit card not being accepted, a government website that isn’t working or do you have problems submitting your application online? iVisa is a third party helping out with your visa application. The price of the fee is usually around 35 US dollars but can vary depending on destination, type of visa and requirements.

How does it work?

1. Use this link to visit the iVisa website. This is an affiliate link to iVisa which means we make a small commission if you click this link. You don’t pay anything extra. We recommend using iVisa if you don’t want the extra hassle when applying for a visa.

2. Tell them your nationality and where you are going to.

3. Fill out the application which is usually the same information you need to provide at the official government websites.

4. You have several options in processing time; standard processing is 5 business days, rush processing is 3 business and super rush processing is 2 business day.

5. Once you have finished your application check if your details are correct. Or double check if you are a control freak like I am. When everything is correct you can proceed and pay. They ask you to create an account if you like.

6. The last thing you need to do is upload a copy of your passport and passport photo with a white background. If you have uploaded the images you are finished and need to ‘Save and Complete request’.

If you completed the process you will receive a confirmation email from iVisa. As soon as they received your visa they send it you via email. You can save the email or print the visa and bring it to the airport. Contact the customer service of iVisa if you have any issues. They are available 24/7.

Get your passport photo online via iVisa

Do you need an approved passport photo? At iVisa they have a photo service. You only pay 1 dollar per photo. Their team will check your photo to make sure it meets the government requirements. Use this link to get your passport photo online. This is an affiliate link to iVisa which means we make a small commission if you click this link. You don’t pay anything extra.

In The World’s Jungle – Practical travel info

Go on a virtual picture tour in Dubai or read more about the modern and historical highlights in Dubai. Planning a long term trip or holiday can be a challenging task. How do you start and where do you get the information that is most relevant for you? Check the articles below. Start with the Ultimate Guide for planning a long term journey. Even when you are planning a two week holiday it is a helpful guide with tips. The second step is to create a travel budget. The third step is to make a packing list and trying not to overpack. Check out the best travel apps I use. 

In The World’s Jungle – Personal Travel Guide

Do you need help setting up an itinerary or are you looking for unique places to stay? I can help you planning your holiday or business trip. Read the services page to know more or send me a message via the contact form. Let me know what your interests are and your expectations. I’m looking forward to assist you.