The new visit visa rules or the tourist visa rule for the UAE are nothing but some additional changes in the already existing visa rules. We all know that the UAE is a global hub for tourism, business, and innovation, and it attracts millions of tourists annually. These changes in tourist visas have been implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). In simple terms, it aims to smooth the current process and cater to future travel needs. In this article, we’ll explore the new visit visa rules for 2025 and see what has changed for the coming tourists in the UAE.
Also Read: UAE E-Channel System: Streamlining Immigration and Residency in 2025
What is the UAE Visit Visa or a Tourist Visa
Visit visas or tourist visas allow foreign nationals to enter the UAE for purposes such as tourism, family visits, business meetings, job exploration, medical treatment, or attending events. So far, the UAE’s 2025 visa reforms have introduced new categories, a little bit stricter documentation requirements, and simple digital processes to fast-track applications.
Key Changes to Tourist Visa Rules in 2025
The UAE has rolled out several updates to its tourist visa policies. Below are the major changes:
- New Visa Categories (Effective August 10, 2025):
- AI Professionals Visa: Targets specialists in artificial intelligence, reflecting the UAE’s focus on attracting tech talent.
- Event Attendees Visa: Designed for visitors attending conferences, exhibitions, or cultural events.
- Commercial Gaming Visa: For individuals involved in regulated gaming activities.
- Cruise Ship Passengers Visa: For tourists arriving via cruise ships.
- Expanded Visit Visa Options:
- 30-Day Single-Entry Tourist Visa: Allows a 30-day stay for AED 410, ideal for short-term tourism or family visits.
- 60-Day Single-Entry Tourist Visa: Permits a 60-day stay for AED 610, catering to longer vacations or business trips.
- Five-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: Priced at AED 650, this visa allows multiple entries over five years, with each stay up to 90 days.
- Removal of 10-Day Grace Period: The previous 10-day grace period for overstaying a visa has been eliminated, and overstaying now can result in immediate fines.
- Stricter Documentation Requirements: Applicants must provide:
- Proof of financial means (minimum AED 5,000 or USD 1,360 balance).
- Confirmed accommodation details (hotel booking or host’s Emirates ID and residence visa copy).
- A return or onward ticket
- Simplified Application Process: Most visa applications can now be submitted online via government portals (e.g., ICP, GDRFA), airlines (e.g., Emirates, Etihad, flydubai), travel agencies, or UAE hotels.
- Visa for Exploring Business Opportunities: Stricter eligibility criteria require proof of professional qualifications or business intent, ensuring only genuine business explorers apply.
- Family Visit Visa Updates: Sponsors (e.g., UAE residents) must provide proof of a minimum monthly income to sponsor friends or relatives.
- Transit Visa Reforms:
- Transit passengers are exempt from entry fees for the first 48 hours, with extensions up to 96 hours for AED 50.
- No transit visas are issued for citizens of certain countries (e.g., Nigeria).
- Job Seeker Visa: A new six-month visa for individuals who overstayed but wish to seek employment, enhancing the UAE’s appeal as a hub for talent.
- Special Provisions:
- Foreign widows or divorcees of UAE nationals without children can apply for a residence permit.
- Country-Specific Restrictions: For Nigerian travellers:
- No transit visas are issued.
- Solo travellers aged 18–45 must be accompanied.
- Applicants over 45 must provide a six-month bank statement showing a monthly ending balance of USD 10,000.
Also Read: What is Unified Identification Number in UAE?
What are the Eligibility Criteria for a tourist visa?
Eligibility for UAE visit visas depends on nationality, purpose of visit, etc. Here are some points that you need to keep in mind while applying for the same.
- Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.Nationality-Based Exemptions:
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia) can enter with a government-issued ID, no visa required.
- Citizens of certain countries (e.g., select European nations, Mexico) receive a free visa on arrival:
- 30-day single-entry visa for some nationalities.
- 90-day multiple-entry visa (valid for six months) for others.
- 180-day multiple-entry visa for Mexican passport holders
- Indian nationals with a valid US, UK, or EU visa/residence permit can obtain a 14-day visa on arrival, extendable by 14 days
- Age and Accompaniment: Minors under 18 require parental or guardian accompaniment, with an attested birth certificates
- Financial Requirements: Applicants must show proof of sufficient funds (AED 5,000 minimum) and accommodation details.
The new visit visa regulations bring exciting opportunities for longer stays. If you’re planning to apply, our visa services can help you stay compliant and confident.
Costs and Fees
Visa costs vary by type and duration:
- 30-Day Single-Entry Tourist Visa: AED 410
- 60-Day Single-Entry Tourist Visa: AED 610
- Five-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: AED 650
- Transit Visa: Free for 48 hours, AED 50 for 96-hour extension
- Visa Extension: AED 600 per 30-day extension (up to 60 days for single-entry visas; 90 days per visit for a five-year visa)
- Overstay Fines: AED 50–100 per day, plus potential deportation and re-entry ban
- Additional Fees:
- AED 50 refund deduction if the visa is cancelled before processing.
- AED 1,000 refundable deposit for family/friend sponsorship (claimable within two years)
- AED 30 for a visa copy at Dubai International Airport screening.
Visa fees are non-refundable once issued and used
Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide : Cost of living in Dubai?
At the end
The UAE’s 2025 tourist visa rules come with greater flexibility for new categories of visa (e.g., AI professionals, cruise passengers) and options like the five-year multiple-entry visa. This reform is going to be a game changer in the coming days for travellers coming to the UAE, and may bring safety and compliance in the region.