Due to its strategic location, Dubai is a major global travel hub, serving as a transit location for millions of passengers each year. Passengers with long layovers can explore the city of Dubai with help of a Dubai Transit visa.
Knowing about the Dubai transit visa, what it offers and what is not included would prove helpful if you are transiting through Dubai. This blog provides a detailed guide on the types of transit visas, eligibility, required documents, the application process, tips for smooth application and everything else you need to know about the Dubai Transit visa.
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What is a Transit Visa?
A Dubai transit visa is a type of a short term visa that allows passengers transiting through Dubai to leave the airport and explore the city during their layover period.
Depending on the flight timings, a transit visa is typically valid for 48-96 hours. Acquiring a transit visa becomes necessary if the layover is longer than 8 hours and the passenger plans on leaving the airport.
A Dubai transit visa is perfect for passengers who are flying onwards through Dubai and wish to explore various attractions in Dubai like like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, or Palm Jumeirah before continuing their journey.
Types of Dubai Transit Visa
There are two main types of of transit visa offered to passengers transiting through Dubai. They are as follows;
- 48-hour Transit Visa – This type of visa is best suited for passengers planning on leaving Dubai within 48 hours of landing. This type of transit visa is free of cost if applied through Emirates or FlyDubai. It can only be obtained through a local sponsorship from either your airline or a UAE-based hotel/tour operator. An important thing to note about the 48-hour transit visa is that it cannot be renewed or extended.
- 96-hour Transit Visa – It is pretty much the same as the 48-hour transit visa with certain changes. To obtain the 96-hour transit visa, passengers need to pay a small fee, approximately AED 50-100. It is valid for 4 days from the date of entry. This visa type of also needs to be sponsored by either a an airline (Emirates, FlyDubai) or a UAE-approved hotel/tour operator. It must be applied in advance and is not eligible for for renewal or extension.
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Eligibility Criteria for a Transit Visa
Passengers transiting through Dubai need to meet the following criterias to qualify for for a Dubai transit visa;
- The transit duration should atleast be 8 hours (for the 48-hour transit visa) and 10 hours for the (96-hour transit visa).
- The layover period should not exceed 96 hours.
- Passenger must possess a valid onward travel ticket leaving within the transit visa validity period.
- A valid passport with 6 months validity is also required for securing a transit visa.
- The airline must be sponsoring the visa.
Note: Passengers from some nationalities may need to meet additional requirements to obtain a transit visa.
Documents Needed for a Dubai Transit Visa
While applying for a Dubai transit visa, passengers need to provide certain documents. The list of documents needed generally includes the following;
- Passport copy with at least 6 months of validity.
- Passport-size photo (white background).
- Confirmed arrival and onward journey flight tickets
- Duly filled & signed visa application form
- Sponsorship letter either from the airline or the hotel.
- Proof of accommodation (if applicable).
Additional documents may be required depending on the sponsoring airline and the nationality of the passenger. It is highly recommended to confirm the exact documents before applying for the visa
Note: Some airlines like Emirates automatically process transit visas when you book a long layover.
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How to Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa?
- Determine the visa type – The first step is to figure out which type of visa will suit your needs the best. You also need to check if you need a visa as certain nationalities get visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for such short duration of visit.
- Check Eligibility Requirements – Before applying for a transit visa, make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements including the minimum duariotn of stay and required documentation.
- Apply Through Your Airline – It is the easiest and most straightforward way to apply for a transit visa. Once you book a flight with long layover, you can head to the airline website, choose to apply for a transit visa, upload documents and make the payment (if applicable).
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Alternatively, you can also apply through a hotel or travel agency based and registered in the UAE. But it is preferable only in case the airline is not sponsoring the transit visa.
- Make the payment – Once all the application process is completed and documents are submitted, passengers transiting through Dubai need to pay the visa fee (for 96-hours transit visa).
- Receive the Visa – Once the application is processed and approved, passengers will receive a visa via email. Print a copy and carry during travel for a hassle-free experience.
Tips for a Smooth Dubai Transit Visa Application Process
- Check Visa Requirements Early – Based on your nationality, check if you need a transit visa for Dubai.
- Apply Through Your Airline – Major airlines offer transit visa options to make the entire process easy and hassle-free.
- Keep Documents Ready – Keep all the documents prepared in advance to avoid last minute issues.
- Start Early – It takes a little time for transit visas to be processed. Take that time into consideration when applying.
- Check Visa Validity – Ensure you do not overstay you transit visa as it could lead to serious legal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the cost of Dubai transit visa?
The 48-hour transit visa is free of cost, however, the 96-hour transit visa costs a nominal fee (50-100 AED).
- Can I leave the airport without a transit visa?
No, a transit visa is compulsory to leave the airport. A transit visa however is not compuslory for passport holders of certain countries. Check the requirements before heading out.
- Can I extend my Dubai Transit Visa?
No, Dubai transit visas are not extendable. Passengers must travel out of Dubai before the expiry of their transit visa.
- Do I need a transit visa if I’m not leaving the airport?
No, passengers planning on staying within the airport do not require a transit visa while travelling onward through Dubai.
- How long does it take to get a transit visa?
The time taken depends on how you are applying for the visa. Typically it takes anywhere from 3-5 days to process a Dubai transit visa.