UAE Transit Visa

Complete Guide for Stopover Travellers

48-hour & 96-hour options • Airport pickup • Explore during layovers

48-96 Hours
Layover Friendly
Explore UAE
Transit Visa
48-96 Hours
From AED 60
Apply Now

UAE Transit Visa Categories

Flexible options for different stopover durations

48-Hour Transit Visa

Perfect for short layovers and quick exploration

Valid for 48 hours from entry
Ideal for 8-24 hour layovers
Quick city exploration
Shopping and dining opportunities
Airport hotel access
AED 60 Processing fee

Multiple Transit

For frequent travellers with regular UAE connections

  • 6-month validity
  • Multiple entries
  • Business traveller friendly

Sponsored Transit

Enhanced services through airline partnerships

  • Streamlined processing
  • Additional services
  • Airline benefits

Free Transit

Available for certain nationalities and circumstances

  • No processing fees
  • Bilateral agreements
  • Qualifying passengers

Eligibility Requirements

Simple requirements for transit visa approval

Valid Passport

Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date

  • Machine-readable passport
  • Minimum 2 blank pages
  • Undamaged condition

Onward Travel

Confirmed ticket for onward journey from UAE

  • Valid airline ticket
  • Departure within visa validity
  • Third country destination

Minimum Layover

Sufficient connection time for transit visa processing

  • Minimum 8-hour layover
  • Maximum 96-hour stopover
  • Same airport not required

Accommodation

Hotel booking or accommodation arrangement

  • Hotel confirmation
  • Airport hotel acceptable
  • Sponsor accommodation
Important Notes
Nationality Check

Some nationalities may require advance approval

Processing Fee

Fees vary by visa type and nationality

Processing Time

Usually processed within 2-4 hours

No Extensions

Transit visas cannot be extended

Transit Hubs
Dubai International (DXB)

World's busiest international airport

Abu Dhabi International (AUH)

Major Middle East hub

Dubai World Central (DWC)

Emerging aviation hub

Transit Visa Benefits & Opportunities

Make the most of your UAE stopover

Cultural Exploration

Experience UAE's rich heritage from traditional souks to modern architecture

  • Dubai Museum
  • Sheikh Zayed Mosque
  • Traditional Souks
  • Cultural Districts

Shopping Paradise

World-renowned shopping from luxury malls to traditional markets

  • Dubai Mall
  • Mall of the Emirates
  • Gold Souk
  • Duty-Free Shopping

Culinary Adventures

Diverse dining scene from traditional Emirati to international cuisine

  • Emirati Cuisine
  • International Dining
  • Street Food
  • Fine Dining

Iconic Attractions

Visit world-famous landmarks and attractions during your stopover

  • Burj Khalifa
  • Palm Jumeirah
  • Dubai Fountain
  • Marina Walk

Transit Visa Application Process

Simple steps to get your transit visa

1

Check Eligibility

Verify your nationality and layover duration qualify for transit visa

Nationality requirements
Minimum layover time
2

Prepare Documents

Gather required documents including passport and onward ticket

Valid passport
Onward travel ticket
3

Submit Application

Apply online in advance or at the airport upon arrival

Online application
Airport application
4

Receive Approval

Get your transit visa approved and start exploring UAE

Quick processing
Immediate travel

Transit Visa Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about UAE transit visas

The minimum layover time is typically 8 hours for transit visa eligibility. This ensures sufficient time for immigration processing and meaningful exploration outside the airport.

Yes, many nationalities can apply for transit visas upon arrival at UAE airports. However, advance online application is recommended to save time and ensure approval.

Hotel booking confirmation is typically required, though airport hotels are acceptable. Some airlines offer transit hotel packages for their passengers.

Transit visas cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa type such as a tourist visa before your transit visa expires.

Ready to Explore UAE During Your Layover?

Apply for your transit visa and make the most of your stopover

48-96 Hours

Airport Processing

Explore UAE

Shop & Dine