Dubai Tourist Visa: How to Get It Fast and Cheap

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, the first thing you’ll need is a tourist visa. It’s not rocket science, but it can feel confusing if you’ve never done it before. This guide walks you through the whole process, the money you’ll spend, and the little tricks that save you time.

Types of Dubai Tourist Visas

Dubai offers three main tourist visas: a 30‑day single entry, a 30‑day multiple entry, and a 90‑day single entry. The single‑entry visa lets you stay up to 30 days and you have to leave the UAE before it expires. The multiple‑entry version is also 30 days, but you can come and go as many times as you want during that period, which is handy if you’re traveling to nearby countries. The 90‑day visa is for longer stays and is usually only available if you’re from a country that has a special agreement with the UAE.

Most travelers pick the 30‑day single entry because it’s the cheapest and works for most short vacations. If you’re not sure, check the official UAE visa page or ask your airline – they often sell the visa for you at the airport.

Step‑by‑Step Application Process

1. Check if you need a visa. Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and a few other countries get a free visa on arrival. If you’re not on that list, you’ll need to apply online.

2. Gather the documents. You’ll need a passport valid for at least six months, a digital passport photo, a copy of your flight itinerary, and proof of accommodation (hotel booking or a friend’s invitation). Some airlines also ask for a copy of your return ticket.

3. Choose a sponsor. You can get a visa through an airline (Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai), a hotel, a travel agency, or a UAE resident friend/family member. The sponsor will submit the visa request on your behalf.

4. Fill out the online form. The sponsor will send you a link or you can go to the official eVisa portal. Fill in your personal details, upload the documents, and double‑check everything before you hit submit.

5. Pay the fee. The cost ranges from $100 to $150 for a 30‑day single entry visa. If you use a travel agency, they might add a service fee, so compare prices.

6. Wait for approval. Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, but you can get it faster for an extra fee. You’ll receive an email with a PDF visa that you print and carry with your passport.

7. Enter Dubai. Show your passport and visa PDF at immigration. The officer will stamp your passport, and you’re good to go.

That’s it – eight simple steps and you’re ready to explore the city.

Here are a few extra tips that make the whole thing smoother:

• Apply early. If your flight is during a holiday, processing can take longer.
• Use a reputable sponsor. Airlines and big hotels charge less and have higher approval rates.
• Keep a copy of your visa on your phone. Some officers ask to see the electronic version.
• Know the entry rules. You can’t work on a tourist visa, and you must leave before it expires.

With the visa in hand, you can focus on the fun part – planning what to see and do in Dubai. From the Burj Khalifa’s view decks to the desert safari, the city has something for every taste. Safe travels and enjoy your stay!