Requirements and Process for Obtaining a Tourist Visa to the UAE

With expats making up nearly 85% of the population, it’s no surprise that the UAE is a global hotspot. The UAE boasts one of the fastest-growing economies, driven by substantial oil reserves, liberal tax policies, and a progressive government. Its advantageous location and world-class infrastructure further enhance its appeal.

Before you can enjoy the benefits of doing business in the UAE, you need to get there first. Fortunately, obtaining a UAE tourist visa doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re unsure about the process, we’re here to guide you. Here’s everything you need to know about securing a tourist visa for the UAE.

Visiting the UAE

Located on the Arabian Peninsula, the UAE shares borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia. While much of the country is desert, Dubai stands out with its modern architecture, vibrant culture, and luxury shopping. Despite the global pandemic, Dubai welcomed over 5.5 million tourists in 2020, thanks to its year-round sunshine and attractions.

Dubai offers a plethora of experiences, from marveling at the Burj Khalifa—the world’s tallest building—to camel rides over expansive sand dunes, swimming with dolphins, and relaxing on pristine beaches. The city truly is a vacationer’s paradise.

Dubai – An Entrepreneur’s Hub

Beyond its allure as a tourist destination, Dubai is a premier business hub. Known as the ‘world’s business hub,’ Dubai bridges Eastern and Western economies. With its rich oil and gas reserves, Dubai has diversified its economy, making it an attractive location for entrepreneurs.

The UAE’s stable government, combined with access to large markets in Asia, Africa, and Europe, enhances Dubai’s business appeal. The zero-tax regime and 100% profit repatriation in certain jurisdictions further attract investors.

In 2019, the UAE government introduced policies allowing full foreign ownership in specific sectors and business zones, including hospitality, manufacturing, and renewable energy. However, each jurisdiction has its own regulations, so it’s essential to understand the specific rules applicable to your business sector and location.

Navigating the paperwork and liaising with Emirati authorities can be complex, but that’s where we come in. At Dawleygroup, we simplify the process, making us the preferred partner for entrepreneurs setting up businesses in the UAE.

Get Started with Your Tourist Visa

To begin your business journey, obtaining a tourist visa to the UAE can be straightforward with our assistance. We streamline the process, ensuring you can focus on your new venture while we handle the details.

Passport Requirements for a UAE Tourist Visa

Obtaining a UAE tourist visa is straightforward if you have the right documents. However, different rules apply based on your nationality. It’s essential to be aware of the specific requirements for your country.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the tourist visa options available for expats traveling to the UAE. Keep in mind that travel regulations are subject to change, especially due to the ongoing pandemic. Always check the latest UAE travel restrictions before applying for a visa or booking your flights. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us for up-to-date travel and business formation advice.

UAE Visa on Arrival

For citizens of certain countries, the UAE offers a visa on arrival. This is the simplest and most cost-effective option. If you qualify, it’s the best way to enter the UAE.

Visa on Arrival for 30 Days
If you hold a passport from one of the following countries, you are eligible for a 30-day visa on arrival:

• Andorra
• Australia
• Brunei
• Canada
• China
• Hong Kong
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• Macau
• Malaysia
• Mauritius
• Monaco
• New Zealand
• The Republic of Ireland
• San Marino
• Singapore
• Ukraine
• The United Kingdom and Northern Ireland
• The United States of America
• Vatican City

This visa is free of charge and is valid for a single entry. Ensure that your passport has at least six months of validity remaining; if not, obtain a new passport before traveling.

Visa on Arrival for 90 Days
Citizens of the following countries are eligible for a 90-day, multiple-entry visa on arrival, also free of charge:

• Argentina
• Austria
• The Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belgium
• Brazil
• Bulgaria
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• The Czech Republic
• Denmark
• El Salvador
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Honduras
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Kiribati
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• The Maldives
• Malta
• Montenegro
• Nauru
• The Netherlands
• Norway
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Russian Federation
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• San Marino
• Serbia
• Seychelles
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Uruguay

Visa on Arrival for 180 Days
Mexican citizens are eligible for a 180-day, multiple-entry visa on arrival. To qualify, you must present:

• Plane tickets
• Health insurance
• Hotel reservation

Your passport should also have at least six months of validity.

Visa on Arrival for 14 Days
Indian passport holders can obtain a 14-day visa on arrival if they present one of the following:

• A USA-issued visit visa valid for at least six months
• A USA-issued green card valid for at least six months
• Evidence of UK or EU residence

This visa costs AED 120 (approximately USD 33). If you cannot provide the required documentation, you will need to apply for a prearranged tourist visa.

UAE Prearranged Tourist Visas

If your country is not listed for a visa on arrival, you’ll need to apply for a prearranged tourist visa. The process is straightforward, but you must ensure your passport is valid for at least three months from the date of application.

To apply for a prearranged visa, you will need:

• A color copy of your passport
• A color photograph of yourself
• An application form
• A copy of your plane ticket

Types of Prearranged Tourist Visas and Costs:

1. 48-Hour Visa: USD 10
2. 96-Hour Visa: USD 30 (Non-extendable)
3. Single-Entry Short-Term Tourist Visa: USD 90 (Extendable for an additional USD 230)
4. Short-Term Multiple-Entry Visa: USD 175 (Valid for 30 days, extendable for an additional USD 230)
5. Single-Entry Long-Term Visa: USD 190 (Valid for 90 days, extendable for an additional USD 230)
6. Multiple-Entry Long-Term Visa: USD 460 (Valid for 90 days, extendable for an additional USD 230)

Additional Documentation:
If you’re from Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, or Iran, you may need to provide extra documentation, such as a National ID card.

One-Year Remote Working Visa

Introduced recently, the UAE’s one-year remote working visa is designed for digital nomads who wish to work remotely from the UAE. This visa is available to foreign employees and business owners, and is open to passport holders from all countries.

Eligibility and Requirements:

• For Employees:

  • Proof of employment
  • A work contract of at least one year
  • Proof of a monthly salary of no less than USD 5,000
  • Three months’ bank statements

• For Business Owners:

  • Proof of business ownership of at least one year
  • Average monthly income of no less than USD 5,000
  • Three months’ bank statements

Costs:
The application for this visa costs USD 287, but additional expenses such as UAE health insurance and ID fees will bring the total to approximately USD 600.

Investor and Entrepreneur Residency Visas

For those looking to establish a business in the UAE, the Golden Visa program is an attractive option. This program offers 5- and 10-year visas specifically for expat investors and entrepreneurs.

Key Benefits:

• No need for a national sponsor
• Freedom of travel in and out of the UAE
• Ability to add family members and executives to the visa

Conditions:
The Golden Visa program comes with several complex conditions. If you are interested, our team is ready to guide you through the application process and ensure you meet all the requirements.

Dubai Immigration Procedures

Once you’ve secured all necessary visas and documentation, the Dubai airport immigration process is notably efficient and modern. The process is designed to be as streamlined as the city’s iconic architecture, leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovation.

Arrival at Dubai Airport:

Upon arrival, you’ll use an electronic gate to pass through immigration. This e-gate system allows you to register your identity by scanning your passport and retina. The use of these e-gates significantly speeds up the immigration process and minimizes the need for face-to-face interaction with border patrol staff.

Possible Random Screening:

While the electronic system is highly efficient, there is a chance you may be selected for random screening. If selected, you will need to present evidence of your visa. Please note that a charge of AED 30 may apply if you do not have a hard copy of your visa confirmation number.

Apply for a Tourist Visa UAE

Are you ready to launch your next business venture in the UAE? Capitalize on the country’s highly diversified economy and set up your business in a premier location bridging Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Getting Started:

Before finalizing your business plan and applying for a tourist visa, contact one of our company formation experts in Dubai. With the Dawleygroup process, we’ll guide you through every step, making the establishment of your business in the UAE as smooth and straightforward as possible.

Reach out today to discover how easy it can be to start your business journey in the UAE.