Planning a holiday in Dubai? If your nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival, you will need to obtain a UAE tourist visa before travelling.
The UAE government states that tourist visas can generally be arranged through UAE-based airlines, hotels and licensed travel agents. For Dubai specifically, visa applications are also handled through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA). (U.AE)
Step 1: Check whether you need a UAE visa
Before applying, first check whether your passport requires a visa.
Some nationalities can enter the UAE without obtaining a visa in advance, while others can receive a visa on arrival. If your nationality does not qualify for either, you must obtain a visa before travelling. (U.AE)
For Nigerian passport holders, it is important to arrange the appropriate UAE entry visa before travelling rather than assuming you can obtain one at Dubai airport.
You can check the latest requirements through the official UAE government portal:
UAE Government – Check where to apply for a visa
Step 2: Choose the type of Dubai visa you need
For a normal holiday, the relevant option is usually a tourist visa.
Dubai’s GDRFA currently provides tourist visa options including:
- 30-day single-entry tourist visa
- 60-day single-entry tourist visa
- 30-day multiple-entry tourist visa
- 60-day multiple-entry tourist visa
- Other specialised UAE visit visas
For example, the current GDRFA service for a single-entry tourist visa provides 30- or 60-day options. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
If you only intend to visit Dubai once for a holiday, a single-entry tourist visa is usually the simplest option.
Step 3: Make sure your passport is valid
Before starting the application, check your passport.
GDRFA states that your passport or travel document should have at least six months’ validity. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
You should therefore have:
- A valid passport
- At least 6 months remaining before passport expiry
- Enough blank pages where applicable
- A clear colour scan/copy of the passport biodata page
Make sure the passport copy is clear and all information is readable.
Step 4: Prepare your documents
For a standard Dubai tourist visa, the required documents are relatively straightforward.
GDRFA lists the following for its single-entry tourist visa:
- Passport copy
- Recent personal photograph
- Valid travel/exit ticket
- Valid UAE medical/travel insurance
The passport must have at least six months’ validity. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
Recommended document checklist
Before applying, prepare:
☐ Passport biodata page
☐ Recent passport-size photograph
☐ Return or onward flight ticket
☐ UAE-valid travel medical insurance
☐ Hotel reservation/accommodation details
☐ Contact details
☐ Payment method
A visa provider may request additional supporting documents depending on your nationality, circumstances and application route.
Step 5: Decide how you will apply
This is an important part of the process.
Unlike some countries where you simply submit a tourist visa application directly to an embassy, UAE tourist visas are commonly processed through approved channels.
The UAE government says tourist visas can be obtained through:
- Airlines
- Hotels
- Travel agents
For Dubai, applications can also be processed through GDRFA’s systems and authorised service channels. (U.AE)
Option 1: Through an airline
Some UAE airlines offer visa services to eligible passengers.
If you are booking your flight with an airline that provides UAE visa processing, check whether you qualify for its visa service.
Option 2: Through a licensed travel agency
You can use a reputable UAE travel agency or authorised visa service provider.
This can be easier if you are applying from outside the UAE and do not have access to a UAE sponsor.
Option 3: Through an approved Dubai visa channel
GDRFA Dubai provides online services for Dubai entry permits and visas. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
GDRFA Dubai – Official Website
Step 6: Complete the application
Once you have selected your application channel, provide your personal information.
You will normally need information such as:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Passport issue date
- Passport expiry date
- Country of residence
- Contact information
- Intended travel dates
- Accommodation details
Enter your information exactly as it appears on your passport.
Pay particular attention to:
- Spelling of your name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Passport expiry date
- Nationality
A mistake in your passport details can cause problems with the application.
Step 7: Upload your documents
Upload the required documents according to the instructions of the application provider.
Your passport scan should be:
- Clear
- Complete
- In colour where requested
- Free from excessive glare
- Easy to read
Your photograph should also meet the provider’s specifications.
Do not submit an edited or manipulated passport document.
Step 8: Pay the visa fees
After completing the application, you will normally be required to pay the applicable fees.
The exact amount you pay can differ depending on:
- Visa type
- Length of stay
- Single or multiple entry
- Application channel
- Service/processing charges
- Insurance
- Whether you are applying from inside or outside the UAE
For example, GDRFA currently lists a base fee of AED 200 for a 30-day single-entry tourist visa and AED 300 for a 60-day single-entry tourist visa, plus applicable VAT. The final amount can differ depending on circumstances and additional services. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
Do not assume that the government fee is the same as the amount charged by a travel agency. An agency may add its own service or processing charges.
Step 9: Submit the application
After uploading your documents and paying the required fees, submit the application.
Check everything carefully before submitting.
In particular, verify:
Name → Passport number → Date of birth → Nationality → Passport expiry date
GDRFA states that its digital tourist visa service is available 24/7 and gives an expected completion time of approximately 48 hours, although applicants should not treat this as a guarantee. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
Step 10: Wait for the visa decision
Once your application has been submitted, the relevant authority or visa provider will process it.
There are generally three possible outcomes:
Approved
You receive your UAE/Dubai entry visa electronically.
Additional information required
The provider may contact you for additional documents or information.
Refused
Your application may be refused.
A visa application should therefore be submitted well before your intended departure date.
Step 11: Download and check your approved visa
When your visa is approved, download the electronic visa and check all the information.
Look at:
- Your full name
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Visa type
- Entry validity
- Permitted stay
- Number of entries
If you notice an error, contact the issuing authority or visa provider before travelling.
Step 12: Book your trip and prepare for Dubai
Once your visa is approved, make sure your travel documents are ready.
Carry:
- Passport
- Printed or electronic copy of your UAE visa
- Return/onward ticket
- Hotel/accommodation confirmation
- Travel insurance
- Evidence of sufficient funds if requested
- Contact information for your accommodation
Even after obtaining a visa, travellers remain subject to UAE immigration requirements at the border.
Step 13: Travel to Dubai
At the airport, present your passport and required travel documents to immigration.
Your passport should correspond to the details on your approved visa.
Once admitted, make sure you do not exceed the period of stay granted to you.
Overstaying can result in fines and immigration consequences.
How Much Does a Dubai Tourist Visa Cost?
There is no single price that applies to everyone because the final amount depends on the visa type and how you apply.
For example, GDRFA currently lists:
| Visa | GDRFA listed base fee |
| 30-day single entry | AED 200 + 5% VAT |
| 60-day single entry | AED 300 + 5% VAT |
| 30-day multiple entry | AED 300 + 5% VAT |
| 60-day multiple entry | AED 500 + 5% VAT |
These are official GDRFA service fees, not necessarily the final amount charged by an airline or travel agency. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
Additional charges can apply depending on the application circumstances.
How Long Does a Dubai Visa Take?
GDRFA currently lists an expected completion time of approximately 48 hours for the relevant tourist visa services. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
However, it is better to apply well before your flight rather than booking a non-refundable trip and waiting until the last minute for the visa.
Important Things to Know Before Applying
1. Your passport should have 6 months’ validity
This is one of the key requirements stated by GDRFA. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
2. A visa does not guarantee entry
A visa allows you to travel to the UAE and seek entry, but admission remains subject to immigration checks.
3. Don’t overstay
Check the permitted stay on your visa carefully.
4. Use legitimate visa providers
If using an agent, verify that you are dealing with a legitimate provider and understand exactly what is included in the price.
5. Don’t confuse a tourist visa with a work visa
A tourist visa is intended for tourism/visiting. It does not give you permission to work in Dubai.
If your purpose is employment, you need to follow the UAE employment/residence visa process.
Dubai Visa Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, use this checklist:
Passport
- ☐ Valid for at least 6 months
- ☐ Clear passport copy
Photo
- ☐ Recent passport photograph
- ☐ Meets the required specifications
Travel
- ☐ Return/onward ticket
- ☐ Accommodation arranged
Insurance
- ☐ Valid UAE medical/travel insurance
Application
- ☐ Correct personal information
- ☐ Correct passport number
- ☐ Correct travel dates
- ☐ Correct nationality
- ☐ Fees paid
- ☐ Application submitted
Official UAE Sources
For readers, I would strongly recommend linking directly to the official sources rather than sending them to random “Dubai visa” websites.
UAE Government – Visa and Emirates ID information
GDRFA Dubai – Official Website
GDRFA Dubai – Single-Entry Tourist Visa Service
Important: Visa rules, fees and eligibility can change, so applicants should verify the current requirements through the official UAE/GDRFA channels immediately before applying. (Identity and Foreign Affairs)
Disclaimer: OpportunityShape is an independent information website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the Government of the United Arab Emirates, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA), or any UAE embassy.
This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Visa requirements, fees, processing times, eligibility criteria and application procedures may change without notice. While we make reasonable efforts to keep our information accurate and up to date, we do not guarantee that every detail will remain current.
Applicants should verify the latest visa requirements directly with the official UAE government authorities or the relevant visa provider before submitting an application or making travel arrangements.
OpportunityShape does not issue, approve or guarantee UAE visas, and publication of this information does not constitute immigration, legal or travel advice. We are also not responsible for visa refusals, delays, additional fees, changes in immigration rules, or decisions made by UAE immigration authorities.
For official information, applicants should consult the UAE Government and GDRFA Dubai websites.
