Temporary visas in the United Arab Emirates

Going to the United Arab Emirates for a short stay? Here is some information on the different types of visas available.

If you want to move to the United Arab Emirates, you must first determine whether you need a visa. Usually, the type of visa will be based on the length of your stay in the country. To help you, contact the nearest United Arab Emirates Embassy. Note that citizens of some countries can benefit of immediate entry into the country upon arrival.

Types of visa
Visitor visa:

If you come from European countries, you will get your visa valid for a period of 30 days as from the date of your arrival in the country. This visa is issued free of charge by the UAE authorities. The visa can be extended but fees apply. Thus, you can make a stay up to 90 days in the country. Note that you will have to pay a penalty in case of late renewal.

Good to know:

You are not allowed to work in the country with a visitor's visa.

Transit visa:

The transit visa is valid for a maximum period of 96 hours. You can use it if you are making a short transit in the country. You can apply for this type of visa at the desks of the airport where you have landed. Costs vary according to your intended activities during your stay.

Visa for mission:

If you are a businessman, an engineer, a doctor, representative of a company and you need to go to the United Arab Emirates for an urgent mission, you can apply for a mission entry visa. This visa is valid for 14 days only. You will obtain it at the immigration department of the airport on arrival. Fees apply.

Useful links:

Emirates – Information on visas www.emirates.com
Visa application form uae-embassy.ae