Can I extend my visa on arrival?

Yes, you can extend a UAE tourist visa once for another 30 days by visiting an immigration office or typing center. The extension costs AED 600-800 plus service fees.

What if my nationality isn't eligible for visa on arrival?

You must apply for a UAE visa in advance through the official UAE visa portal, an airline, or a local sponsor. This process takes 3-5 working days and costs more than visa on arrival.

Do I need a visa on arrival if I'm just transiting?

No visa needed for transit up to 24 hours if you stay in the airport. For longer layovers or to leave the airport, you need a transit visa (96 hours, AED 50) or regular visa on arrival.

Can I work on a tourist visa on arrival?

No, tourist visas prohibit work activities. Violating this can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. You need a work visa sponsored by a UAE employer.

How to Get a Visa on Arrival in the UAE

Citizens from 81 countries can get a UAE visa on arrival at Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other UAE airports. The process takes 10-30 minutes, costs AED 100-300 depending on duration, and requires a passport valid for 6+ months plus proof of onward travel.

Check your eligibility before flying. Verify your nationality is on the UAE visa-on-arrival list. Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, and 75+ other countries qualify. Check the official UAE government website or with your airline before booking.
Prepare required documents. Bring your passport (valid for at least 6 months), return flight ticket or onward travel proof, and hotel booking confirmation. Have AED 100-300 in cash or a credit card for visa fees.
Land at any UAE airport. Visa on arrival is available at Dubai (DXB/DWC), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Sharjah (SHJ), Ras Al Khaimah (RKT), and Fujairah airports. The service operates 24/7.
Go to immigration counter. After landing, follow signs to immigration. Join the visa-on-arrival queue (separate from UAE nationals and residents). Present your passport and documents to the immigration officer.
Pay the visa fee. Pay AED 100 for a 30-day single-entry visa or AED 300 for a 30-day multiple-entry visa. Some nationalities get free 30-day visas. Payment accepted in cash (AED/USD) or credit card.
Get your visa stamp. The officer will stamp your passport with entry permission. Keep this stamp - you'll need it when leaving the UAE. The process typically takes 10-30 minutes depending on queue length.

Can I extend my visa on arrival?: Yes, you can extend a UAE tourist visa once for another 30 days by visiting an immigration office or typing center. The extension costs AED 600-800 plus service fees.
What if my nationality isn't eligible for visa on arrival?: You must apply for a UAE visa in advance through the official UAE visa portal, an airline, or a local sponsor. This process takes 3-5 working days and costs more than visa on arrival.
Do I need a visa on arrival if I'm just transiting?: No visa needed for transit up to 24 hours if you stay in the airport. For longer layovers or to leave the airport, you need a transit visa (96 hours, AED 50) or regular visa on arrival.
Can I work on a tourist visa on arrival?: No, tourist visas prohibit work activities. Violating this can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. You need a work visa sponsored by a UAE employer.