Dubai e-Visa 2026: Types, Requirements, Processing Time, Fees & How to Apply Online

Dubai welcomes millions of visitors every year for tourism, business and medical travel. In 2026, most non-GCC travelers can complete the entire visa process online and receive an e-Visa (an electronic entry permit linked to your passport). Below is the accurate, up-to-date guide that clears confusion and helps you get approved fast—without risky shortcuts.

What Is a Dubai e-Visa in 2026?

A Dubai e-Visa is a digitally issued entry permit for short stays in the UAE. It’s delivered by email (PDF) and verified electronically at immigration—no embassy visit needed for most applicants. The e-Visa is typically issued for tourism, short business visits, transit, or medical treatment via an approved sponsor/portal.

Note: An e-Visa is not an employment visa and does not authorize paid work. Employment and long-term residence follow different procedures.

Who Needs a Dubai e-Visa & Who Gets Visa on Arrival?

• You need an e-Visa if your nationality is not eligible for visa-exempt or visa-on-arrival entry.

• Visa on arrival applies to specific nationalities (passport-dependent) for set durations.
  When unsure, use our checker or contact Dubai Visa Center to confirm your category.

Dubai e-Visa Types & Validity

30-Day Tourist e-Visa (Single/Multiple Entry)

• Stay up to 30 days from entry; valid for 60 days to enter after issuance.

• Ideal for short holidays and family visits.

• Available as single-entry or multiple-entry (for quick re-entries).

60-Day Tourist e-Visa (Single/Multiple Entry)

• Stay up to 60 days; convenient for long vacations or extended family stays.

• Single or multiple-entry options.

96-Hour / 48-Hour Transit e-Visa

• For layovers through Dubai when you plan to exit the airport.

• Valid only for the stated transit window from entry.

Business/Visit e-Visa for Meetings & Events

• For meetings, conferences, exhibitions, or client visits.

• Duration aligns with 30/60-day tourist categories (no paid employment).

Medical Treatment Entry Permit (Sponsor Hospital)

• Issued via a licensed UAE hospital/clinic for treatment plans.

• Requires official medical invitation and itinerary.

Documents Required for Dubai e-Visa (2026)

Mandatory Documents

• Passport (minimum 6-month validity from intended entry; clear bio page scan).

• Recent color photo (passport-style, plain background).

• Confirmed onward/return ticket.

• Confirmed accommodation (hotel booking or host details).

• Completed application form with accurate personal/travel data.

Optional / Case-by-Case Documents

• Bank statement or employment letter (proof of funds & ties).

• Invitation letter (for business/medical or family host).

• Travel insurance (strongly recommended; sometimes required).

• OK to Board (airline-triggered update for certain nationalities—see below).

How to Apply for a Dubai e-Visa Online (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose visa type: 30-day or 60-day, single/multiple entry, transit, or medical.

2. Upload documents: Passport, photo, tickets, hotel/host details; add invitation if relevant.

3. Review & pay securely: Ensure names and passport numbers match your passport exactly.

4. Track status: You’ll receive email/SMS updates; respond promptly to any request for more info.

5. Receive e-Visa (PDF): Print a copy and keep a digital copy on your phone for check-in and arrival.

Processing Time, Fees & “OK to Board”

• Processing time (typical): 2–3 working days; Express handling is available for urgent cases.

• Fees vary by type (30-day vs. 60-day, single vs. multiple entry, express).

• OK to Board (OTB): Some airlines require an OTB update for specific nationalities 48–72 hours before departure. We coordinate OTB when applicable so you’re not stopped at check-in.

Extensions, Overstay Fines & Status Check

• Extensions: Many tourist e-Visas can be extended (often 30 days, sometimes twice) before expiry—subject to current rules and your profile.

• Overstay: Fines accrue per day after the grace period; clear dues before departure to avoid travel issues.

• Status check: We can verify visa validity and in/out status to help you plan extensions or exits correctly.

Common Rejection Reasons & How to Avoid Them

• Data mismatches (name, passport number, DOB).

• Low-quality/incorrect photo or unclear passport scan.

• Incomplete itinerary (no return ticket/accommodation proof).

• Previous overstay or immigration violations in the UAE/GCC.

• Handwritten passports or passports with damage.

Approval tips: submit crisp scans, match spellings exactly, maintain sufficient funds, include travel insurance, and apply at least 10–15 days before travel (or use Express).

Safe vs. Risky Ways to Get a Visa

• Safe: Authorized portals, reputable agencies, hotel/airline sponsorships, and direct medical providers.

• Risky: Unverified agents, “guaranteed visa” claims, forged docs, or last-minute OTB promises. These lead to rejections, bans, or being denied boarding.

Why Apply with Dubai Visa Center

• Error-proof application: Expert review to eliminate typos and mismatches.

• Faster processing options: Priority queues for urgent travel.

• OTB coordination where applicable so check-in is smooth.

• Peace of mind: Secure payments, clear timelines, and real human support.

CTA: Apply for your Dubai e-Visa online with Dubai Visa Center now—get approved quickly and travel stress-free.

Conclusion & Strong CTA

A Dubai e-Visa is the fastest, simplest way to visit the UAE in 2026—as long as your application is accurate and complete. Avoid rejections and boarding issues by applying through professionals.

👉 Start your Dubai e-Visa application now with Dubai Visa Center to lock in fast processing and reliable support.