Dubai Transit Visa Guide: Everything You Need to Know About 48 & 96 Hour Transit Visas
If you have a connecting flight through Dubai and wish to explore the city during your layover, a Dubai Transit Visa allows you to experience the best of the UAE in just a short stay. Whether it’s a brief 48-hour stopover or a 96-hour stay, this visa is perfect for travelers who want to turn their layover into a memorable experience.
What Is a Dubai Transit Visa?
A Dubai Transit Visa is a short-term entry permit issued to travelers who are transiting through Dubai International Airport (DXB) or any UAE airport before heading to their final destination. It allows you to enter Dubai and explore the city for a limited time while waiting for your onward flight.
This visa is ideal for travelers with layovers longer than 8 hours and wishing to leave the airport premises.
Types of Dubai Transit Visas
The UAE Government offers two types of transit visas based on the duration of stay — the 48-hour visa and the 96-hour visa.
48-Hour Dubai Transit Visa
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Fee: Free of cost
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Validity: 48 hours from the time of entry
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Extension: Not extendable
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Eligibility: Travelers with confirmed onward flight bookings to a third destination
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Best For: Short stopovers and business travelers
This visa is issued through UAE-based airlines and must be applied for in advance. It cannot be extended beyond 48 hours.
96-Hour Dubai Transit Visa
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Fee: USD 156 (approx.)
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Validity: 96 hours from entry into the UAE
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Extension: Not renewable
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Best For: Travelers with longer layovers or short visits
You can explore popular attractions such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah, or enjoy a desert safari during your stopover.
Eligibility Criteria for Dubai Transit Visa
To apply for a Dubai Transit Visa, you must meet the following conditions:
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Hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
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Have a confirmed onward flight ticket to a third destination.
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Possess a hotel booking (if planning to stay overnight).
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Hold a valid visa or entry permit for your next destination (if required).
Required Documents for Dubai Transit Visa Application
When applying for a Dubai Transit Visa, prepare the following documents:
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Passport copy (valid for at least six months)
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Recent color photograph with white background
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Confirmed onward flight ticket
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Hotel reservation (recommended for 96-hour visa)
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Visa for final destination (if applicable)
Dubai Transit Visa Fees and Validity
| Type of Visa | Fee | Validity | Extension |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48-Hour Transit Visa | Free | 48 hours | Not extendable |
| 96-Hour Transit Visa | USD 156 | 96 hours | Not extendable |
Note: Fees may vary slightly based on airline or service provider charges.
How to Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa Online
Applying for a Dubai Transit Visa online is quick and simple through UAE-based airlines or authorized partners like DubaiTransitVisa.
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Book your flight with an approved UAE airline (Emirates, Fly Dubai, Etihad, or Air Arabia).
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Submit your visa request through the airline’s portal or authorized visa service.
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Upload documents such as passport, photograph, and onward ticket.
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Pay the applicable fee (for 96-hour visa).
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Receive your e-visa via email within 24–72 hours.
Airlines That Sponsor Dubai Transit Visas
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Emirates Airlines
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Etihad Airways
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Fly Dubai
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Air Arabia
Difference Between Dubai Transit Visa and Tourist Visa
| Feature | Transit Visa | Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Short layover or connection | Tourism, leisure, or visiting family |
| Duration | 48 or 96 hours | 30 or 90 days |
| Extension | Not extendable | Extendable |
| Sponsor | UAE-based airlines | Travel agencies or sponsors |
Can You Extend or Convert a Dubai Transit Visa?
No, Dubai Transit Visas cannot be extended or converted into a Tourist Visa. However, you can apply for a new Tourist Visa separately if you wish to stay longer in the UAE.
Attempting to overstay a transit visa can result in penalties, so ensure your departure is within the permitted duration.
Tips for a Smooth Layover in Dubai
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Keep your onward ticket and visa copy easily accessible.
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Pre-book a hotel near Dubai International Airport for convenience.
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Explore free or short-duration attractions such as Dubai Fountain and Souks of Deira.
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Check airport transfer timings to avoid missing your next flight.
Why Apply for a Dubai Transit Visa Through DubaiTransitVisa.com
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Fast Online Processing: Hassle-free digital application.
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Expert Support: Guidance from visa professionals.
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Secure Payment Gateway: 100% safe and verified transactions.
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Trusted by Thousands: Reliable, government-approved processing.
Turn your short layover into a memorable Dubai experience with our quick and secure visa service.
Apply Now: Apply Dubai Transit Visa Online
Common Reasons for Transit Visa Rejection
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Incomplete or incorrect documentation
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Expired passport validity
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Lack of onward flight confirmation
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Previous UAE visa violations
Always double-check your documents before submission to avoid rejection or delays.
Final Words & Call-to-Action
Don’t let your Dubai layover go to waste — turn it into an unforgettable mini-vacation! Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks or relaxing at a luxury hotel, a Dubai Transit Visa is your gateway to a world-class stopover.
👉 Apply now at Dubai Transit Visa for a seamless, quick, and secure visa process.