Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates? Before you start packing your bags and dreaming of desert adventures, there’s one crucial detail you need to consider: the UAE tourist visa cost.

For many travelers, navigating the complex world of UAE visa fees can be overwhelming. With various visa types, fluctuating costs, and hidden expenses, it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of information. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with our comprehensive Insider’s Guide to UAE Tourist Visa Costs.

In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about UAE tourist visa expenses. From understanding the different types of visas available to uncovering money-saving tips, we’ll guide you through the process step by step. So, whether you’re planning a luxurious Dubai getaway or a cultural exploration of Abu Dhabi, read on to discover how to navigate the UAE visa landscape like a pro and make your dream trip a reality without breaking the bank. 

Types of UAE Tourist Visas

30-day visa

The 30-day tourist visa is one of the most popular options for short-term visitors to the UAE. This visa allows travelers to explore the country’s attractions, conduct business meetings, or visit friends and family for up to a month. It’s an excellent choice for those planning a quick getaway or attending events like the Dubai Shopping Festival.

90-day visa

For those seeking a more extended stay, the 90-day visa offers greater flexibility. This option is ideal for:

• Long-term tourists
• Business travelers with extended projects
• Individuals exploring job opportunities
• Retirees enjoying an extended vacation

Multiple entry options

UAE tourist visas also come with multiple entry options, providing convenience for frequent travelers:

Entry Type	Description	Best For
Single Entry	One-time use	Short trips
Multiple Entry	Multiple visits within the validity	Business travelers, regional explorers

Transit visa

Transit visas cater to passengers with layovers in UAE airports. These visas come in two durations:

1. 48-hour transit visa
2. 96-hour transit visa

Both options allow travelers to briefly explore nearby attractions or enjoy a short city break during their layover.

Now that we’ve covered the various types of UAE tourist visas, let’s examine the factors that influence their costs.

Factors Affecting UAE Tourist Visa Costs

A. Nationality of applicant

The cost of a UAE tourist visa can vary significantly depending on your nationality. Some countries enjoy visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival privileges, while others require pre-approval and may face higher fees.

Visa Requirement	Example Countries	Cost Impact
Visa-free entry	USA, UK, EU countries	No cost
Visa on arrival	China, Russia, India	Low to moderate cost
Pre-approval required	Pakistan, Nigeria, Philippines	Higher cost

B. Duration of stay

The length of your intended visit directly affects the UAE tourist visa cost:

• 30-day visa: Typically cheaper
• 90-day visa: Higher cost but more economical for longer stays
• Multiple-entry visas: Most expensive but offer flexibility

C. Type of visa

Different visa types come with varying costs:

• Short-term visit visa
• Long-term visit visa
• Transit visa
• Multiple-entry visa

D. Processing time

Expedited processing often incurs additional fees:

• Standard processing: 3-5 working days
• Express processing: 24-48 hours (higher cost)
• Super-priority processing: Same-day (premium cost)

E. Visa sponsorship

Sponsorship can affect visa costs:

• Self-sponsored: Generally more expensive
• Sponsored by UAE residents: Can be cheaper
• Hotel or airline sponsorship: May offer package deals

Now that we’ve explored the factors influencing UAE tourist visa costs, let’s break down the standard visa fees in more detail.

Breakdown of Standard Visa Fees

Application fee

The application fee is the initial cost you’ll encounter when applying for a UAE tourist visa. This fee covers the processing of your application and varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. Here’s a breakdown of typical application fees:

Visa Type	Application Fee (AED)
30-day	300
90-day	600
Multiple entry	1000

Entry permit fee

Once your application is approved, you’ll need to pay an entry permit fee. This fee permits you to enter the UAE. The cost depends on the duration of your stay:

• 30-day visa: AED 200
• 90-day visa: AED 350

Visa stamping fee

After arriving in the UAE, your visa needs to be stamped in your passport. The visa stamping fee is typically:

• Short-term visas (30 days or less): AED 100
• Long-term visas (90 days): AED 150

Service charges

Don’t forget about service charges, which can add to your overall UAE tourist visa cost:

1. Processing fee: AED 50-100
2. Courier charges (if applicable): AED 30-50
3. Insurance fee (mandatory): AED 150-200

These standard fees provide a baseline for budgeting your UAE trip. However, costs may vary slightly depending on the emirate you’re visiting and your nationality. Next, we’ll explore additional costs that might impact your overall visa expenses.

Additional Costs to Consider

Insurance requirements

When planning your trip to the UAE, it’s crucial to consider the insurance requirements for your tourist visa. Most UAE tourist visas require travelers to have valid travel insurance coverage for the duration of their stay. Here’s a breakdown of the insurance requirements:

• Medical coverage: Minimum of AED 150,000 (approximately $40,000)
• Repatriation coverage: Included in the policy
• COVID-19 coverage: Required by most emirates

Insurance Type	Minimum Coverage	Estimated Cost
Basic	AED 150,000	$30-50
Comprehensive	AED 300,000+	$60-100

Express processing fees

For those in a hurry, express processing is available but comes at an additional cost. The fees vary depending on the visa type and processing time:

• 24-hour processing: Additional AED 100-200
• Same-day processing: Additional AED 200-400

Visa extension charges

If you wish to extend your stay beyond your initial visa duration, you’ll need to pay extension fees:

1. 14-day extension: AED 600
2. 30-day extension: AED 800
3. 90-day extension: AED 1,100

Overstay penalties

Overstaying your visa can result in hefty fines. It’s crucial to be aware of these penalties:

• First day of overstay: AED 200
• Each subsequent day: AED 100
• After 30 days: Risk of arrest and deportation

Always ensure you exit the country before your visa expires to avoid these additional costs. Now that we’ve covered the extra expenses, let’s explore some money-saving tips for UAE tourist visas.

Money-Saving Tips for UAE Tourist Visas

Applying through official channels

When seeking to save money on your UAE tourist visa, applying through official channels is crucial. The UAE government’s official visa application portal offers competitive rates and ensures legitimacy. Avoid third-party agencies that often charge hefty service fees, inflating your overall costs.

Application Method	Pros	Cons
Official UAE Portal	Lower fees, Guaranteed legitimacy	May require more effort
Third-party Agencies	Convenience, Assistance	Higher costs, Potential scams

Planning ahead for processing times

Timing is everything when it comes to saving on your UAE tourist visa. By planning, you can avoid rush processing fees and last-minute surcharges. Standard processing times typically range from 3-5 business days but can vary based on nationality and visa type.

• Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date
• Opt for regular processing instead of express services
• Check for seasonal variations in processing times

Choosing the right visa type

Selecting the appropriate visa type can significantly impact your overall costs. Consider your travel plans carefully to avoid overpaying for unnecessary features or duration.

• Short-term visit (up to 30 days): opt for a single-entry tourist visa
• Multiple entries required: consider a multiple-entry visa for cost-effectiveness
• Longer stays: evaluate the 90-day tourist visa option

Taking advantage of promotional offers

Keep an eye out for promotional offers that can help reduce your UAE tourist visa costs. Airlines, hotels, and even the UAE government occasionally offer special deals:

1. Check for airline package deals that include visa fees
2. Look for hotel promotions that cover visa costs for extended stays
3. Monitor official UAE tourism websites for seasonal visa discounts

By implementing these money-saving strategies, you can significantly reduce your UAE tourist visa expenses while ensuring a smooth application process. Next, we’ll explore how visa costs can vary based on your nationality, providing valuable insights for different travelers.

Comparison of Visa Costs by Nationality

GCC countries

GCC countries enjoy special privileges when it comes to UAE tourist visas. Citizens of these nations can enter the UAE without a pre-arranged visa and stay for up to 90 days. This makes their visa cost effectively zero.

Country	Visa Requirement	Cost
Saudi Arabia	Not required	Free
Oman	Not required	Free
Kuwait	Not required	Free
Bahrain	Not required	Free
Qatar	Not required	Free

Western nations

Many Western countries have visa-on-arrival agreements with the UAE, simplifying the process and reducing costs.

• USA
• UK
• Canada
• Australia
• Most EU countries

These nationals typically pay around 100-150 AED for a 30-day visa on arrival.

Asian countries

Visa costs for Asian countries vary widely:

1. Some countries (e.g., Singapore, South Korea) enjoy visa-on-arrival privileges
2. Others (e.g., India, Philippines) require pre-arranged visas

A 30-day tourist visa for most Asian countries costs between 300-350 AED.

African nations

African nationals generally face higher visa costs and stricter requirements:

• 30-day tourist visa: 350-400 AED
• An additional security deposit may be required
• Longer processing times

Now that we’ve compared visa costs by nationality, let’s explore some money-saving tips for obtaining your UAE tourist visa.

How to Pay for Your UAE Tourist Visa

Online payment options

When it comes to paying for your UAE tourist visa, online payment options offer convenience and speed. The official UAE government portal provides a secure platform for visa payments. Here’s a quick overview of the available methods:

Payment Method	Processing Time	Convenience
Credit Card	Instant	High
Debit Card	Instant	High
E-wallet	1-2 business days	Medium

• Ensure you have a valid credit or debit card
• Double-check the visa fee before confirming payment
• Keep the payment confirmation for your records

Bank transfers

For those who prefer traditional banking methods, bank transfers are a reliable option. However, this method may take longer to process.

• Use the provided IBAN for international transfers
• Include your passport number as a reference
• Allow 3-5 business days for the transfer to be completed

Credit card payments

Credit card payments are widely accepted and offer additional benefits:

• Instant confirmation of payment
• Potential for earning reward points or cashback
• Option to pay in installments (check with your card issuer)

Cash payments at UAE missions

For applicants who prefer face-to-face transactions, cash payments at UAE missions are still an option. However, this method is less common and may not be available at all locations.

• Check the operating hours of your nearest UAE mission
• Bring exact change in UAE Dirhams
• Request a receipt for your payment

Next, we’ll explore some money-saving tips to help you minimize your UAE tourist visa costs.

Navigating the costs associated with UAE tourist visas can be complex, but understanding the various types, fees, and factors influencing prices empowers travelers to make informed decisions. From standard visa fees to additional expenses like insurance and processing charges, being aware of all potential costs helps in better budget planning for your UAE adventure.

Remember, visa costs can vary based on factors such as nationality, visa duration, and entry type. To maximize your travel budget, consider applying for visas directly through official channels, opting for longer-duration visas if planning multiple visits, and keeping an eye out for promotional offers. By staying informed and planning, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective entry into the UAE, allowing you to fully enjoy the country’s remarkable attractions and experiences.

Note: Price can vary according to the time & situation.