UAE visa guide: visa on arrival, eVisas and long-term residence
United Arab Emirates entry rules in 2026 — visa on arrival lists, 30/60-day tourist eVisas, extensions, overstay fines and Golden Visa criteria.
Around 80 nationalities receive a free visa on arrival in the UAE for 30 or 90 days. Others apply for a tourist eVisa through an airline, hotel or licensed agent, valid 30 or 60 days from entry. Overstaying costs AED 50 per day, and long-term residence runs through the 5- and 10-year Golden Visa.
Visa on arrival
GCC citizens, most of Europe, the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Japan and others receive a stamp at the counter — 30 or 90 days depending on nationality — with a passport valid six months. No advance filing is needed, but airlines still check onward tickets and hotel bookings.
Tourist eVisas
Everyone else applies through a sponsor: the airline you fly with, a licensed agent, or a UAE hotel. Approvals usually take 3–5 working days. The visa's validity to enter and the permitted stay after entry are two different dates — read both.
Extensions and overstays
Most tourist visas can be extended twice by 30 days for roughly AED 600 each without leaving. Overstay penalties accrue at AED 50 per day plus exit fees, and unpaid fines block future entry.
Residence and the Golden Visa
Employment, freelance permits and property investment lead to renewable residence visas. The Golden Visa grants 5 or 10 years to investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talent, outstanding students and property owners above set thresholds, without a national sponsor.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
Dubai follows UAE federal rules: around 80 nationalities get a free stamp on arrival, everyone else needs a tourist eVisa arranged before travel.
Can I extend a UAE tourist visa?
Yes, usually twice by 30 days for about AED 600 each, applied for before the current permission expires.
How much is the UAE overstay fine?
AED 50 per day from the first day of overstay, payable before departure.