Dubai Transit Visa 2026: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Types (48/96 Hours), Documents, Fees & Fast Online Application
Flying via Dubai and want to make the most of your stopover? The Dubai Transit Visa lets eligible travelers leave the airport, explore the city, and reconnect with their onward flight—without committing to a full tourist visa. This 2026 guide covers visa types (48/96 hours), eligibility, documents, fees, processing time, and a step-by-step online application so you can apply with confidence.
What Is a Dubai Transit Visa in 2026? Purpose, Validity & Who It’s For
A Dubai Transit Visa is a short-stay, single-entry permit issued to travelers transiting through the UAE on their way to a third country. It’s designed for layovers of 8 to 96 hours and is not extendable. You’ll need it if you:
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Want to exit the airport during your layover;
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Aren’t eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival;
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Have a confirmed onward flight departing within 48 or 96 hours.
Types of Dubai Transit Visas (48 vs 96 Hours) & Which One to Choose
48-Hour Dubai Transit Visa (Best for quick stopovers)
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Stay allowed: up to 48 hours from entry.
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Use case: brief city visit, short connection, quick business meeting.
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Tip: Perfect if your next flight leaves within two days.
96-Hour Dubai Transit Visa (Extra time to explore)
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Stay allowed: up to 96 hours from entry.
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Use case: relaxed stopover, multiple attractions, meetings across the city.
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Tip: Choose this if your onward flight is 3–4 days after arrival.
Both visas are single-entry and non-extendable. If you need a longer stay, apply for a tourist visa instead.
Eligibility & Key Conditions for Dubai Transit Visa (2026)
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Passport validity: at least 6 months from your arrival date.
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Onward ticket: confirmed flight booking to a third country within 48/96 hours.
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Entry/exit: you must enter and exit the UAE within visa limits.
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Airport time: if your layover is under 8 hours and you stay airside, you typically don’t need a transit visa.
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Compliance: no UAE immigration violations or active travel bans.
Can you leave the airport during transit?
Yes—only with an approved transit visa (or if your nationality allows visa-free/VOA). Always allow enough buffer for immigration, city travel, and check-in for your onward flight.
Layover vs Stopover vs Transit Visa: What’s the difference?
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Layover: short connection, often <8 hours; usually stay in transit area.
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Stopover: planned break 8–96 hours; often requires transit visa to exit the airport.
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Transit Visa: the permit that allows you to enter Dubai briefly between flights.
Required Documents Checklist (By Applicant Type)
Adults
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Passport (minimum 6 months validity).
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Recent photo (white background).
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Confirmed onward flight within 48/96 hours.
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Hotel booking or UAE address (recommended for smooth processing).
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Active email to receive eVisa.
Minors (under 18)
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Child’s passport + photo.
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Birth certificate (to confirm parent/guardian relationship).
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Parent/guardian passport copy and consent letter (if traveling without both parents).
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Onward ticket and hotel booking details.
Optional but recommended for all: basic travel insurance covering your stopover.
How to Apply Online for a Dubai Transit Visa (Step-by-Step)
Standard application flow (online)
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Start your application on Dubai Transit Visa.
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Choose visa type (48 or 96 hours) and enter traveler details.
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Upload documents (passport, photo, onward ticket, hotel).
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Review & pay the applicable fee securely.
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Track status via email updates.
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Receive eVisa by email and print/keep a copy on your phone for immigration.
Embassy/airline-sponsored alternatives (when applicable)
Some travelers may apply via a UAE embassy/consulate or through airline sponsors for certain itineraries. Requirements and timelines can differ; the online route is typically faster and simpler for most passengers.
Dubai Transit Visa Fees & Processing Time (2026)
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48-Hour Visa: typically ~USD 50 (plus service charges).
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96-Hour Visa: typically ~USD 80–120 (varies by nationality).
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Processing: Standard ~ 2–3 working days; Express/Urgent options available.
Standard vs Express/Urgent processing
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Standard: cost-effective; plan 3–5 days ahead of travel.
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Express/Urgent: additional fee; decisions often within 24–48 hours (subject to volume and compliance).
Note: Fees/timelines may vary by nationality, season, and completeness of documents.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection
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Passport validity under 6 months.
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Mismatched names or typos across passport, ticket, and application.
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Blurry scans or wrong photo specifications.
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No confirmed onward flight or unclear itinerary.
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Applying too late (submit at least 3–5 days before travel; earlier in peak seasons).
Risks of DIY Applications & Why Choose Professional Help
DIY pitfalls: hidden fees, wrong visa type, documentation errors, last-minute rejections, and missed flights due to processing delays.
Our advantage: vetted documentation, compliance checks, priority filing, proactive updates, and faster turnaround—all of which reduce risk and stress.
Why Apply via DubaiTransitVisa.com (Benefits & Service Promise)
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Transparent pricing with no surprises.
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Expert review of documents to minimize rejection.
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Standard & urgent processing choices.
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Real-time updates and dedicated support.
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High approval rates with complete files.
CTA: Ready to turn your layover into a mini-vacation? Apply now on DubaiTransitVisa.com for a smooth, reliable, and quick Dubai Transit Visa 2026 approval.
Final Takeaway & Call-to-Action
A Dubai Transit Visa is the easiest way to explore Dubai between flights—without the cost or commitment of a longer visa. Choose 48 hours for quick plans or 96 hours for extra time, submit clean documents, and apply a few days in advance for a smooth experience.
Apply now on DubaiTransitVisa Online and get your Dubai Transit Visa 2026 processed quickly—with expert support at every step.