Travelling to Dubai? Tourist visas now available in 48 hours; check fees

If you’re planning a visit to Dubai, you may no longer have to wait for days to get your visa approvals. The emirate has announced that single-entry tourist visas will be processed within 48 working hours once applicants submit all required documents.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai said visitors can apply for 30-day or 60-day single-entry tourist visas, with approvals expected within 48 hours. The move is aimed at providing a smoother entry process while making

Dubai more attractive for tourists, business travellers and families planning last-minute trips.

In a post on Instagram, the GDRFA said applicants can obtain a tourist visa by completing the required formalities and submitting the necessary documents.

Visa options and fees

According to the GDRFA, a 30-day single-entry tourist visa costs AED 200, while a 60-day visa is priced at AED 300, excluding applicable taxes and additional charges.

- 30-day tourist visa fee: AED 200.

- 60-day tourist visa fee: AED 300.

- In addition to value added tax (5%).

- Security deposit: There is no security deposit amount on this type of visa

- Additional fees (if the sponsored person is inside UAE):

Knowledge Dirham: AED 10.

Innovation Dirham: AED 10.

Fee inside UAE: 500 Dirhams.

Documents Required

To apply for a tourist visa, travellers must provide a photograph and a copy of a passport valid for at least six months. Citizens of certain countries, including Iraq, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan, may also be required to submit a copy of their national identity card.

Applicants must also provide a travel ticket to continue his journey or a ticket to leave

UAE and valid medical insurance.

Who needs to apply?

While citizens of around 70 countries are eligible for visa-on-arrival facilities in the UAE, travellers from countries not covered under those arrangements are required to obtain a visa before travelling.

How to apply

Visa applications can be submitted through the GDRFA's website or smart application.

Step 1: Log into the smart services portal using (UAE pass or username)

Step 2: Select the required visa service and complete the application form

Step 3: Pay the applicable fees.