Apply now for the United Arab Emirates Transit Visa

Apply today for the United Arab Emirates Transit Visa with us!

Last updated: January 2024

On a long layover in the United Arab Emirates? Transform it into an exciting mini-adventure with the UAE Transit Visa. This visa is perfect for those needing entry into the UAE between flights.

The application is simple and swift on our platform or through our user-friendly app. Discover Abu Dhabi's allure or Dubai's splendor without hassle. Your seamless layover journey begins here with the UAE Transit Visa!

Please note: This visa is only for entering the country through Abu Dhabi Airport.

What is the UAE Transit Visa?

The United Arab Emirates Transit Visa is a type of visa specifically designed for travelers who have a connecting flight in the United Arab Emirates and wish to leave the airport during their layover.

When you apply with us online, you’ll receive an official approval letter and receive your transit visa upon arrival in the UAE.

What can I do with the UAE Transit Visa?

This travel document only covers you for tourism activities and attending business events in the United Arab Emirates.

You can only enter the country through the Abu Dhabi airport with this visa.

What can’t I do with the UAE Transit Visa?

This visa is for short-stay purposes only. You can’t live, work, or study in the UAE on this visa.

If you want to stay longer in the UAE than the transit visa allows, apply for the Tourist Visa instead. For other travel purposes than tourism or business, contact your nearest UAE Embassy or Consulate.

Who is eligible for the UAE Transit Visa?

To be eligible for this UAE Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: It's important to check if your nationality requires a transit visa for the United Arab Emirates.

• Arrival airport: You plan to enter the country through Abu Dhabi International Airport.

• Onward flight: You have a confirmed onward flight ticket for departure within 48 or 96 hours of entering the country.

Which nationalities need a UAE Transit Visa?

Check if you require this transit visa prior to entering the UAE using our handy Visa Checker Tool.

Who is visa-exempt from getting a UAE Transit Visa?

If you are from one of the following countries, you have freedom of movement in the United Arab Emirates, meaning that you can enter the country without a visa:

• Bahrain

• Kuwait

• Oman

• Saudi Arabia

• Qatar

Many other nationalities are visa-exempt for a specific amount of days. Use the Visa Checker Tool to find out your requirements.

Do children need to apply for the UAE Transit Visa?

Yes, children and minors also require this visa to enter the United Arab Emirates, if they come from an eligible country. Parents/legal guardians must apply on their behalf.

How long is the UAE Transit Visa valid?

This is a Single Entry travel document. This means that you can only enter the United Arab Emirates once with this visa. You can choose a validity period of 48 hours or 96 hours.

UAE Transit Visa: Required documents

We need the following to submit your application for the approval letter:

• A copy of your passport or travel document: For a 48-hour transit visa, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after arrival. However, for a 96-hour transit visa, a minimum of 6 months validity is required.

• Passport photo.

• Onward ticket booking: A valid flight ticket to another country.

• For children traveling with parents: Submit a copy of the child’s passport, photo, and birth certificate in English or Arabic. Please note that translated documents should be certified on the front page.

Upon entry into the United Arab Emirates

Note that you need to travel with the same passport that you submitted during the application. We recommend having all the above documents on hand.

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your approval letter by email. You must print this and present it at the transit visa counter at the airport in Abu Dhabi to get your visa stamped in your passport.

How to apply for the UAE Transit Visa online

It’s simple! Just follow these three steps:

• Step 1: Complete our simplified application process with your personal and travel details.

• Step 2: Select your preferred processing time and pay the visa fees with a credit/debit card, Venmo, or PayPal.

• Step 3: Upload the required documents, and submit your application.

Make sure to keep an electronic and printed copy of the entry visa letter on hand to show on arrival in the United Arab Emirates.

Costs and processing times for UAE Transit Visas

The visa fees for the transit visa depend on the option you choose:

• Transit Visa for 48 hours: The government fee is US$13.

• Transit Visa for 96 hours: The government fee is USD $13.00.

We offer three different processing options, each for a different fee:

• Standard: For travelers who have booked their trip well in advance, this is the most affordable option.

• Rush: If you need your approval letter quicker than standard, choose this option for an additional fee.

• Super Rush: Get your approval letter as soon as possible for an express fee.

Start your application today to check the exact total costs for your nationality. You can pay the government and processing fees on our secure online platform.

United Arab Emirates entry restrictions

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travelers entering the UAE.

Differences between the UAE Transit Visa and the Tourist Visa

The UAE Transit Visa and Tourist Visa serve different purposes and have distinct features:

• Length of stay: The Transit Visa is meant for short visits for tourism or business on layovers between flights, for either 48 or 96 hours. The Tourist Visa is valid for longer holidays or business trips.

• Application process: The application for the Transit Visa (Approval Letter) is often simpler and quicker. It may require proof of an onward journey within 48 or 96 hours. The Tourist Visa requires more detailed information and documentation about your travel plans, accommodation, and sometimes financial status.

• Visa fees: The Transit Visa is usually cheaper than the Tourist Visa.

Understanding these differences between UAE Visas can help you choose the right visa for your needs!

Need more info about traveling to the United Arab Emirates?

Our dedicated online team of customer service agents is available via [online chat] (/contact-us) to assist with any questions, or you can email them at [email protected].