UAE transit visa information

Do I need a visa to visit the UAE?  

If you’re eligible for a visa on arrival, or you’re a GCC citizen, you do not need to apply for a visa before you travel to the UAE. If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival, you will be required to apply for a visa. This also applies if you’re transiting through Abu Dhabi and plan to leave the airport.  

If you’re a GCC citizen, you can simply present your passport or national ID card when you arrive in Abu Dhabi; you do not require a visa or permit, or to be sponsored by a UAE national or resident. 

All visas are valid for entry into the UAE from the date of issue. Entry into the UAE is subject to the verification of your documents by UAE authorities at the point of entry.  

For visas to any country or destination other than the UAE, contact your local embassy or consulate, or ask our chat bot.   

Valid as of 18/10/2024  

Need a transit visa?

If you’re eligible for a visa on arrival, you don’t need to apply for a visa before you travel to the UAE. If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival, you will be required to apply for a visa if you are planning to visit the UAE.

Transit visas only permit guests to stay in Abu Dhabi for up to 4 days (96 hours).​

For longer stays we ​recommend contacting a tour operator or your local UAE embassy for alternative ways to apply.

Apply for a UAE transit visa or track your application​

Transit visas take around four business days to be processed, so be sure to apply well in advance of your flight. If you’re eligible for a visa on arrival, there’s no need to apply before you travel. All fees are non-refundable. Ticket rebooking and cancellations will be subject to ticket conditions. We recommend booking a Deluxe fare for the best policy protection. ​

Please wait at least five days after submitting your application to track the progress of your visa. You’ll need your application and passport numbers. ​

If you’ve applied for a UAE visa through a travel agent, speak to them to follow up on your application. 

Transit visas

Get in touch

For UAE transit visas:

+971 60 056 0050
(Available 24/7)

info@visaonline.ae

Frequently asked questions

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