A fascinating blend of modern architecture and rich cultural heritage make Dubai one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. You’ll need to acquire a visit visa if you’re planning to visit Dubai with your family on a vacation. If you know the process, getting a visa to visit Dubai isn’t difficult at all. This blog is a detailed guide on how you can get yourself a visit visa to Dubai for a vacation with your family.
Types of Dubai Visit Visas
You must know about the different types of visas available before you apply for your Dubai visit visa. Depending on the purpose of your visit and how long you stay there, Dubai issues visit visas of different types. Let’s look into the details.
Tourist Visa
Issued for a stay of 30 days, these are the most common types of visas issued for those travelling to Dubai as tourists. These visas can be extended by another 30 days.
Short-Term Visit Visa
These visas, valid for 14 days, are ideal for those visiting Dubai on only a short trip. These too are very popular among tourists.
Multiple-Entry Visa
You’ll need to apply for a multiple entry visa if you plan to enter Dubai multiple times during your stay. These are valid for 30 or 90 days.
Transit Visa
You’ll need a transit visa if you are making a stopover in Dubai on your way to another destination. These are usually valid for only 48 to 96 hours.
If you’re planning to visit Dubai for a vacation with your family, the 30 day tourist visa is the one that’s most suitable for you.
Who Can Apply for a Visit Visa to Dubai?
People of the following types shall have to apply for a visit visa to Dubai:
- Citizens of other countries who do not belong to the UAE
- Family members of the main applicant can apply for a Dubai visit visa together with the main applicant
- Those visiting Dubai on a visit to family and friends can also apply for a visit visa
Process of Applying for a Visit Visa to Dubai
Applicants need to go through a certain procedure when they apply for a visit visa to Dubai. Here is a simple guide that shall help you navigate the entire process.
Check Eligibility
Make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria before you apply for a visit visa to Dubai. While citizens of some countries are eligible for a visa on arrival, others shall have to follow a certain process to apply for a visa. To confirm your eligibility, it’s best to check on the official government website or approach the experts in a visa agency.
Choose the Right Visa Type
There are different types of visas that you can apply for. Before you file the application, decide on the purpose of your visit and the duration of your stay before you choose a visa that suits your needs the best. Most applicants prefer the tourist visa which is valid for 30 days when they are visiting Dubai with their families. Approaching a reliable visa agency is a good idea since they have experts handling their international visa service.
Gather Required Documents
You need to furnish some important supporting documents when you apply for a visit visa to Dubai. Here is a list of the documents most commonly required:
- A passport that’s valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Dubai
- Two recently taken passport sized photographs
- The visa application form filled up correctly by the applicant
- A copy of the flight bookings to and from Dubai
- Proof of hotel reservation in Dubai and if the applicant is staying with family or friends, and an invitation letter from them shall have to be submitted.
- Papers like a bank statement or pay slip shall have to be submitted as proof of sufficient funds being available to finance the visit to Dubai.
- Certain airlines may ask for travel insurance which is however not mandatory
Apply for the Visa
Proceed with the application further after all the required documents have been gathered. Applicants can choose from different options when they apply for a visit visa to Dubai.
- Applicants may choose to apply for their visas online on the official visa application of the UAE government. One may also approach a dependable travel agency for assistance.
- Applicants may also apply through the airline they are travelling with like Emirates or Etihad Airways. It’s best to opt for a package deal that includes the visas with the tickets.
- Another option is to apply through visa agencies that also offer assistance with proper filing of the visa application. Such assistance is a part of their international visa service.
Pay the Visa Fee
After successful filing of the visa application, the applicants shall have to pay the necessary visa fees. Depending on which type of visa you have applied for and which country you are applying from, the visa fees shall vary. The cost for the 30 day tourist visa generally ranges between USD 80 and USD 150. It’s very important that all applicants ensure that the visa application is being filed correctly since the visa fees are non refundable.
Wait for the Visa Approval
After the application has been filed and the visa fees paid, it’s time to wait for visa approval. It typically takes no more than 3 to 5 working days for a Dubai visit visa to be processed. If additional documents or information are required, it may however take longer. It’s wise to apply well in advance so you have enough time in hand if there is any unforeseen delay. You receive either an electronic visa (eVisa) or a visa sticker that you shall have to furnish at the immigration counter when you enter Dubai.
Verify Visa Details
Make it a point to double check all the details in your visa before you travel. See to it that details like your passport number and your name are mentioned correctly. In case you find any mistakes, contact the authorities right away for immediate rectification. You can seek help from any leading travel agency in Dubai.
Things to Remember
Since overstaying can invite fines or deportation, be aware of when your visa expires. If you need to stay back, be sure to have your visa extended before it has expired. It’s wise to apply early so you can be prepared for any delays like any additional documents being required. If you have applied through any airline, check and see if they require any additional documents since some airlines do have specific requirements. After you arrive in Dubai, be respectful of the local sensibilities and follow all local laws and regulations.
Conclusion
The process of getting a visit visa to Dubai is easy and hassle free. You are assured of a smooth journey to Dubai once you know the type of visa you need to apply for, the documents needed and the various methods of applying for a proper visa. If you need help, make sure that you approach only reliable agencies. It’s a good idea to seek help from a dependable travel agency in Dubai. For stress free travelling, make sure that you apply early so you can enjoy your vacation in Dubai to the hilt.