Last updated from Dubai | on 15 January 2026 at 07:10 am.
Planning to travel to Dubai in the near future? Having a long layover or simply wishing to get a glimpse of the UAE’s culture and luxury, and you do not know how to get a Dubai transit visa. Not an issue, I can help you out. The Dubai Transit Visa allows you to make the most of your stopover. Here’s everything you need to know, from requirements and the application process to smooth experience tips.
Introduction
Dubai being an international air hub, the city receives millions of tourists each year. You can get a transit visa and visit the city if you have more than two hours of layover time instead of waiting around the airport. Knowing about the Dubai Transit Visa application and requirements will make your short stay a cherishable mini-excursion.
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Dubai Transit Visa: Key Requirements
You will need to fulfill some criteria in order to qualify to submit an application for a transit visa. Below is a quick checklist:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport Validity | at least 6 months validity |
| Confirmed Flight Ticket | to a third country (not back to original country) |
| Visa for Next Destination | if required (e.g., if you are going to a country requiring visa) |
| Passport-sized Photo | recent, with white background |
| Sponsor | Airlines operating in UAE sponsor transit visas |
Important: UAE does not grant transit visa in 2026 to visitors who will be staying less than 8 hours within the airport except to those with onward flights.
Dubai Transit Visa Types
There are two types of transit visas depending on your layover duration:
48-Hour Transit Visa:
- ➔ Free, non-extendable.
- ➔ Suitable for very brief stays.
96-Hour Transit Visa:
- ➔ Around AED 50 (~USD 13), non-extendable.
- ➔ If you need to visit Dubai attractions.
🖋️ Note: Use a minimum of 48–72 hours prior to your departure time for timely processing.
How to Get a Dubai Transit Visa in 2026?
You can apply easily if you undergo the following steps:
- Book Your Flight: Make sure it’s with an airline that is authorized to issue transit visas (e.g., Emirates, FlyDubai, Etihad).
- Request Transit Visa Service: Call the visa department of the airline or request it at the time of booking the ticket.
- Submit Documents:
- Copy of passport
- Passport photo
- Confirmed onward ticket
- Copy of visa of the next destination (if required)
- Pay Fees (if 96-hour visa): Direct payment to the airline.
- Wait for Approval: 1–3 working days of processing will take place.
Quick Infographic: Dubai Transit Visa at a Glance
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost | Extension Possible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48 Hours | 2 days | Free | No |
| 96 Hours | 4 days | AED 50 | No |
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What You Can Do During your Dubai Transit
Enjoy your short stay! This is what you can do:
- Visit Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
- Go on a desert safari
- Relax at Jumeirah Beach
- Walk around Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah
- Take a Dhow Cruise dinner
✨ Tip: Opt for attractions near the airport if you are short of time!
Helpful Links and References
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai), Official visa and immigration website.
- Visit Dubai-Official Tourism Website, Plan your stopover activities.
- Emirates Airline Visa Services
(Always verify visa regulations as they could have changed.)
FAQs
1. Who can apply for a Dubai transit visa?
Qualifying are passengers with confirmed onward tickets, six-month-valid passports, and the correct visas for the next destination (if necessary).
2. How do I get a Dubai transit visa processed?
Typically within 1 to 3 working days, depending on your airline and submission time.
3. Can my Dubai transit visa be renewed?
No, 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas cannot be renewed.
4. Do I require a transit visa for a 3-hour layover?
No, if you stay within the airport for less than 8 hours and possess an onward confirmed ticket, you do not require a transit visa.
5. Can I obtain a transit visa on arrival?
No, you need to reserve it in advance with your airline or travel agency.
Summary
A Dubai Transit Visa is an excellent opportunity to experience the wonder of Dubai even with a short layover. With minimal requirements, simple procedures, and affordable fees (or free for 48 hours!), it’s traveler-friendly. Plan your connecting flights carefully, apply early, and be prepared for a mini adventure between flights!
“Don’t just transit through Dubai; experience it!”
Ready to make the most of your Dubai stopover?
Don’t let travel time go to waste; apply for your Dubai Transit Visa today and discover the magic of the world’s most vibrant city, even during a layover! ✈️✨
Embark on your journey now and turn a simple stop into an unforgettable adventure.
👉 Have questions or a Dubai layover story to share? Drop a comment below; let’s inspire and help each other travel smarter!
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🌍 We’d love to hear from you!
Have you ever transited through Dubai before? ✈️
Share your experience or any tips you have for first-timers!
➔ If you have any questions about the Dubai Transit Visa 2025 process, feel free to ask here — I’ll do my best to guide you! 🧡
(Let’s make traveling easier, together!)
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